SPORT CATEGORY

SPORT CATEGORY

CLICK HERE FOR TEXT VERSION OF SPORT CATEGORY RULES

These are the vehicle classing and preparation rules for the Sport Category of SCCA National Time Trials Competition. The intent of Sport Category is that these are daily-driven cars, or absolutely could be daily-driven. We do not guarantee the competitiveness of every car, as it would be nearly impossible and certainly overly complicated. Once you find your car, make sure if it fits in Sport Category by scrolling down to see what modifications you're allowed to do.

Sport Category Classing

In order to best class vehicles in Sport Category, we have based the "cars to have" for each class on the most attainable and desirable cars that are 3–12 years old participating in Track Events and Regional Autocross; the cars people buy when competition isn't their primary goal. Pro series have something called "Balance of Performance" (BOP) to help make cars equal, and you can call the SCCA Time Trials Sport classing a "Balance of Popularity."

If you do not see your car listed, it has not been classed. If you would like to have your car evaluated for classing, use the CONTACT page to fill out a classing request form.

Makes, types and models will be classified by the Time Trials Board (TTB) when requested, and as soon as sufficient information is available to do so. The TTB may reclassify a car at any time up to and including December of the calendar year following that of the initial classification. Initial classification includes the addition of a new listing on an exclusion list.

Sport Category Classing

We're gonna put some of the coolest cars here. Part of what will be cool about them is they are awesome enough to be on the exclusion list.

Acura
  NSX 2016+
 
BMW
M3/M4 CS 2018+
M3 GTS 2010
M3 LTW 1995
M4 GTS 2016
Chevrolet
Corvette Z06, ZR1 2015+
Corvette ZR1, 2006-2014
Dodge
Viper GTS-R or ACR
Viper GT 2013-17
Viper SRT 2013-17
Hellcat Redeye Widebody 
Challenger SRT Super Stock 2021+
Charger Hellcat Widebody 
Ferrari
812 Superfast, All
Ford
Mustang GT500 2020+
  Mustang GT350R
 
Honda
  S2000 CR
 
Lamborghini
Gallardo All 2004-2013
Lotus
Exige S 2006-2008
Exige S240 2008-2011
Nissan
GT-R Nismo
Mercedes Benz
AMG GT GTS 2015-2023
McLaren
720 S
MP4-12C
Porsche
911 Turbo, Turbo S 2013-2015
GT4 RS
GT3 RS 2015+
GT3 2006+
GTS 2017-2019

1. Cars listed as eligible in and prepared to the current SCCA Solo Street Category Rules are permitted to compete in their listed Time Trials Sport classes and are not restricted to Sport Class tire-width limits. Solo SSR-class vehicles are restricted to Sport Category minimum tread wear ratings. Vehicles with this allowance are not permitted to interchange preparation Rules.

2. Cars listed as eligible in and prepared to the current SCCA Autocross Solo Spec Coup (SSC) Rules are permitted to compete in Time Trials Sport Class 5 (S5). SSC cars with this allowance are not permitted to interchange preparation Rules and must run on the spec tire.

3. Cars listed as eligible in and prepared to the previous SCCA Road Race Showroom Stock Rules are permitted to compete in their respective Time Trials Sport classes provided they run on Time Trials legal tires. Vehicles with this allowance are not permitted to interchange preparation Rules otherwise.

Model Trim Years Class Prior to 2023
Alfa Romeo
Guilia Quadrifoglio 2016-2022  
Audi
R8 V10, standard All  
RS5 Sportback 2019+
RS6 2021+
BMW
M2 All 2023+
M3 2020+
M4 2021+  
M3 Competition (xDrive included) 2021+
M4 Competition (xDrive included) 2022+
M5 Competition  2023
M6 F06/F12/F13 2012-2018  
Cadillac
CT4 V Blackwing 2022+  
CT5 V Blackwing 2022+
Chevrolet
Camaro z/28 2014-2015 S2
Camaro ZL1 All 2018-2023  
Corvette Naturally Aspirated 2014-2019  
Corvette non-Z06 2020+  
Corvette Z06 2006-2013  
Dodge
Viper 2003-2006  
Ferrari
550 Maranello 1996-2001  
Lotus
Emira 2022+
Evora GT 2020-2021
Mercedes
C63/C63S Twin Turbo 2015-2021  
Nissan
GT-R base 2009+  
Porsche
718 Spyder (Non-RS) 2019-2023
911 Carrera Base 2020+
911 Carrera T 2017-2023  
911 Carrera S Chronosport 2011-2019
911 Carrera GTS 2014-2021
911 GT3 1999-2005  
Boxster Spyder 2016-2019  
Cayman S, GTS 2017-2022  
Cayman GT4 3.8L 2016-2019  
Cayman GT4 4.0 L 2020-2022  
Panamera Turbo 2016-2023
Tesla
S Non-Plaid 2012+  

Model Trim Years Class Prior to 2023
Acura
TLX Type S 2023+
Alfa Romeo
4C 2014-2020
Audi
RS3 2017-2020
RS5 2012-2015
R8 V8 4.2 2006-2015
S4 2016-2019
TT RS 2012-2021
BMW
M240i 2016-2021
340i M Sport 2016-2018
i4 eDrive40 2021-2024
M440i xDrive 2021-2022
1M 2011-2012
M2 Base 2016-2021
M2 Competition 2019-2021
M3/M4 2007-2020
M3 Competition 2011-2012
M4 Competition 2017-2020
M6 2005-2010
Cadillac
ATS V 2016-2019
CTS V 2009-2015
CTS  VSPORT (TT V6) 2014-2019
Chevrolet
Camaro LT1 2020+
Camaro SS    2010+
Camaro SS 1LE 2017-2022
Corvette Z07 1991-1996
Corvette Non-Z06 1997-2013
Corvette Z06 2001-2004
Corvette ZR1 1990-1995
Dodge
Challenger Scat Pack 2014+
Challenger SRT8 2008+
Charger Scat Pack, Widebody 2020-23
Viper 1991-2002
Ford
Mustang  Dark Horse (All) 2024
Mustang  GT, GT Perf Pkg 2015-2023
Mustang Mach 1 2021-2023
Mustang GT350 2016-2020
Mustang  Boss 302 2012-2013
Hyundai
Ioniq 5 2025
Infinity
Q50 Red Sport 400  2016-2022
Jaguar
F-Type 400 Sport 2018
XKR 2010-2015
Lexus
GS-F 2016+
IS-F 2008-2014
RC-F Non-Fuji Edition 2015+
Lotus
Elise 2005-2011
Maserati
Gran Turismo Base 2007-2019
Gran Turismo Sport 2012-2019
Gran Turismo MC Sportline 2009-2019
Mercedes
C63 AMG 507 (Non SC) 2008-2015
CL63 AMG (V8) 2007-2014
CLA45 AMG 2020-2023
GLA45 AMG 2016-2019
Nissan
Base + Nismo 2023+
Porsche
Boxster  S 2013-2016
Cayman  S 2013-2016
Cayman Base 4 Cylinder 2017-2024 S1
Cayman R 2011-2012
Cayman GTS 2014-2016
911 Turbo 1997-2004
911 Carrera S  2006-2012
911 Carrera 4S 2006-2012
911 Carrera 2012-2015
911 Carrera S non-Power Kit 2012-2014
911 Carrera 4S non-Power Kit 2012-2014
Tesla
Model 3 Long range RWD 2017-2019
Model 3 SR+ 2019-2020
Model 3 Performance 2018-2022
Toyota
Supra Turbo 1993-1998
Supra GR (3.0) 2020-2022
VW
Golf R 2022+

Model Trim Years Class Prior to 2023
Acura
Integra Type S 2024
NSX 1990-2005 S2
Alfa Romeo
Giulia Ti 2016+
Audi
A3 2.0T All 2015-2018
S3 2013-2020
S3 Quattro Wagon 2006-2013
S4 2009-2016
S5 3.0T FSI 2008-2017
TT S 2009-2018
BMW
135i 2008-2013
M235i 2014-2016
330i  xDrive Sport Wagon 2017-2019
335D 2004-2013
335i All 2006-2013
440i xDrive 2014-2020
535i RWD 2004-2010
650i Base 2005-2010
M3 2001-2006
M5 1998-2003
Z4 Coupe M 2006-2008
Z4 35i M 2009-2016
Z4 35is M 2009-2016
Cadillac
ATS 3.6L V6 2013-2015
CTS V 2004-2007
CT4 V 2022 S2
Chevrolet
Camaro SS 1998-2002
Corvette Z07 1984-1991
Corvette Base 1984-1997
Corvette Non-Z06 1997-2005
SS 2014-2017
Chrysler
Crossfire SRT6 2004-2008 S2
Dodge
Challenger R/T Scat Pack 2015-2022 S2
Ford
Focus RS 2016-2018
Mustang Ecoboost 2015-2023
Mustang GT 2011-2014
Taurus SHO 2010-2018
Genesis
G70 3.3T 2019-2022
Honda
Civic  Type R 2016 +
Hyundai
Elantra N 2022
Genesis R-Spec (All) 2013-2016
Veloster N 2019-2022
Infiniti
Kia
K5
GT
2021-2023
 
Stinger GT  2018-2023 S2
Stinger
GT2
2018-2023
 
Lexus
GS-F 2016-2020 S2
GS350
FSport 2016-2020
 
Lotus
Evora Base - NA 2010-2014
Mercedes
C450 AMG 4MATIC 2015-2016
C55 AMG 2004-2007
CLK55 AMG 2003-2006
SL550 All 2007-2013
SLK55 AMG 2005-2011
Mitsubishi
Evo All
Nissan
370Z Nismo 2009-2013 S2
Polestar
2 Dual Motor, Performance Pack 2020-2024
Pontiac
Firebird Firehawk/Formula/Trans Am 1998-2002
GTO 2004-2006
Porsche
Boxster S 2005-2012
Cayman S 2005-2012
Cayman Base 2009-2012
Cayman Base 2014-2016
911 Carrera 2, 2S, 4, 4S 1999-2008
Subaru
WRX ALL 2009-2021
WRX STI All
Toyota
Supra GR 2.0 2021-Current S2
Corolla
GR 2023-Current
 
Volkswagen
Golf R 2015-2021
Volvo
V60 Polestar 2016-2018

Model Trim Years Class Prior to 2023
Acura
CL Type S 2000-2003
RDX All 2019+
Audi
TT 1.8T Quattro 1998-2006
TT VR6 (All) 2003-2010
TT Base 2014-2022 S3
BMW
228i Sport 2014-2016
230i All 2017+
328i 2006-2013
330i 2019-2024
430i X-Drive 2014-2020
540i 1996-2003
M3 (Non-LTW) 1986-1999 S3
M5 M 1987-1996
Z3 M Coupe 1998-2002 S3
Z4 3.0i 2003-2008
Buick
Regal GS 2012-2017
Cadillac
CTS V6 2004-2007
Chevrolet
Camaro  Z28 (All) 1993-1997
Camaro V6 2010-2022
Camaro Turbo 4 2016-2022 S3
Cobalt SS (Non-NA) 2005-2010 S3
Corvette Base 1968-1982 S3
Impala LT 6 cyl 2014-2020
Chrysler
Crossfire Base 2004-2008 S3
Dodge
Charger R/T 2006+ S3
Dart SXT 1.4 turbo 2013-2016
Neon  SRT-4
Stealth R/T Turbo 1990-1996 S3
Fiat
124 Abarth 2017-2020 S3
Ford
Focus ST 2013-2018
Fusion SE AWD 2.0T 2017-2020
Mustang V6 2011-2017 S3
Mustang GT 2005-2010 S3
Mustang Mach 1 2003-2004 S3
Mustang Cobra
1994-1995
 
Mustang Cobra SVT 1996-1998 S3
Mustang
GT
1964-1968
 
Honda
S2000 Non-CR 2000-2009 S5
Civic
Si
2017-2020
 
Hyundai
Elantra  Sport 2017-2020
Elantra GT Sport 2018-2020
Genesis 3.8 Track 2009-2011
Kona N 2022+
Sonata SE Turbo 2011-2013
Veloster Turbo, Turbo RSpec 2013-2016
Infiniti
G35 2002-2007 S3
G37 2007-2015
Q50 3.0T S 2014-2020

S3

Kia
Forte GT 2018-2023
Lexus
IS300 Base  2014-2020
IS300 FSport 2014-2020
Mazda
MazdaSpeed 3
MazdaSpeed 6 2006-2007 S3
RX-7 1992-1995 S3
Mercedes
E350 Sport 2010-2016
SL500 Sport 1989-2001
SLK 250 2012-2015
MINI
Cooper S 2007+
JCW Hardtop 2009-2014 S3
Nissan
300ZX Turbo 1983-1989
350Z 2003-2009 S3
370Z Non-Nismo ALL S3
Pontiac
Firebird Firehawk/Formula/Trans Am  1993-1997 S3
Solstice GXP 2007-2009 S3
Porsche
Boxster S 1996-2004
Cayman Base 2.7 2006-2008
Boxster Base 2.7 2006-2008
Macan S 2014-2021 S3
911 (964) C2, C4 1989-1994
944 Turbo 1982-1991 S3
968 1992-1995 S3
Saab
9-3 2.8T All
9-3 2.0T All
Saturn
Sky Redline 2007-2009 S3
Subaru
BRZ Base/Premium/tS 2022+ S3
Legacy GT 2003-2009 S3
Forester XT 2004-2008
WRX Premium 2022-2023
Toyota
Camry
TRD
2018+  
GR86 Base/Premium 2022+ S3
Prius All 2023+
Volkswagen
Jetta GLI 2012-2018
Golf GTI 2010+
Golf R 2012-2013
Passat W8 4 Motion 2001-2004
R32 2004 & 2008 S3
Volvo
C30 T5 2008-2013
S60 R 2004-2007 S3

Model Trim Years Class Prior to 2023
Acura
Integra  Type R 1997-2001 S4
TSX 2004-2014
TLX 4cyl Technology 2015-2020 S4
Audi
A3 2006-2013 S4
A4 1.8T 2001-2006 S4
A4 2.0T 2004-2013 S4
A4 B8 (2.0T) 2008-2013
BMW
128i 2008-2013 S4
3 series E30, Non-M3 1984-1991
3 series E36 & E46, 6cyl Non-M3 1992-2006 S4
Z3
2.8i
1997-2000
 
Z3
3.0i 2000-2002
 
Z4 2.5i 2003-2008  
Chevrolet
Camaro Z28  1988-1992
IROC  1988-1992
Chrysler
Conquest  TSI  1987-1989
Dodge
Omni GLH and GLH-S 1984-1986
Fiat
124 Spider Lusso/Classica 2017-2020
500 Abarth 2012-2019
Ford
Fiesta ST 2014-2019 S4
Mustang LX 1987-1993
Mustang GT 1994-2004 S3
Mustang SVO 1984-1986 S4
Taurus SHO 1989-1999
Thunderbird LX 1994-1997
Honda
Accord EX V6 2003-2007 S4
Accord EX-L  2008-2012
Civic Sport Hatchback 2016-2021
Lexus
IS300 2000-2004 S4
IS350
2006-2013
 
RC 200T F Sport 2016-2017 S4
SC300
Base
1992-2000
 
Mazda
MX-5 Miata 2016-2023
Mazdaspeed Miata 2004-2005 S4
RX7 Turbo II 1987-1992 S4
Mitsubishi
Starion ESI-R 1987-1989
Nissan
300ZX Non-turbo 1990-1996
Sentra Nismo 2017-2019 S4
SE-R
All (Incl. Spec-V)
2004-2006
 
Pontiac
Solstice 2006-2010
Porsche
911 3.2 Carrera 1984-1989
944 Non-Turbo 1982-1991 S4
Boxster Non-S 1996-2004 
Saturn
Sky 2006-2010
Subaru
BRZ Limited/Premium 2013-2020 S6
WRX 2000-2008 S4
Toyota
Camry XLE/XSE V6 2018-2023
FRS Limited/Premium 2013-2020 S6
MR2 Turbo 1989-1995
Volvo
V70 R 1997-1999 S4
VW
Golf Sportwagon 2015-2019 S4
GTI 20th Anniversary 1999-2005 S4
GTi 2.0T 2006-2009
Rabbit 2.5S 2006-2009

Model Trim Years Class Prior to 2023
Acura
Integra GS-R 1992-1995
RSX 2002-2006
Alfa Romeo
Milano verde 1987-1989
Milano Gold 1987-1989
BMW
318is 1992-1998
318ti 1995-1999
325i 2006-2011 S4
528i Base 1997-2000 S4
Z3 1.9 1995-1998
Z3 2.5L 2000-2002 S5
2002 Base 1968-1975
Chevrolet
Bolt LT 2017-2022
Camaro V6 1993-2002
Cobalt SS (Naturally Aspirated) 2005-2010
Cruz LT 2014-2022
Impala LT 4 cyl 2014-2020 S5
Sonic All 2012-2020
Volt 2016-2019
Datsun
240/260/280z 1970-1978
521 1966-1972
Dodge
Charger 1982-1987
Dart SXT (2.4) 2013-2016
Neon ACR (Naturally Asp) 1995-1999
Ford
Contour SVT 1998-2000
Crown Vic LX 1992-2012
Festiva
L
1988-1993
 
Focus ZX3 2004-2011 S5
Focus SE 2011-2018
Mustang V6 1999-2010 S4
Probe GT 1989-1992
ZX2 All 1998-2003
Honda
Accord All 1990-1993
Accord EX V6 1994-1997 S4
Accord Sport 2013-2017
Civic Si 1988-2015 S5
Civic EX 1988-2015 S5
Civic LX 1988-2015 S5
CRX All
Del Sol All
Fit LX 2007-2020
Prelude All 1978-2001
Hyundai
Tiburon GS 2007-2008
Veloster Gamma 1.6 GDi 2012-2021
Jensen
Healey 1972-1976
Kia
Optima EX 2011-2015 S5
Soul X-Line 2019+
Lexus
GS300 Base 1997-2005 S4
Mazda
Mazda2 Touring 2007-2014 S5
Mazda3 Naturally Asp 2004-2018
Protegé All 1998-2003
MX-5 Miata 1990-2015
RX-7 Naturally Asp 1979-1991
RX-8 All S5
Mercedes      
M320 1995-2002
Mercury      
Tracer LTS 1993-1996
Mini
Cooper Base and S 2002-2006 S5
Mitsubishi
Mirage 1.2L 2014-2022
Nissan
Sentra All 2013-2019 S4
240sx SE 1994-1998 S4
Sentra SE-R 1990-1994
Pontiac
Solstice Base 2006-2010 S5
Fiero GT 1985-1988
Porsche
914 1.8 L 1974-1975
924 1986-1988
924 S 1986-1988
Saturn
Sky Base 2006-2010 S5
Scion
tC All
Subaru
Forester Sport 2019-2022 S4
Impreza
2.5L 2001-2007
 
Impreza 1992-2001
Legacy L FWD 1995-1999 S5
SVX LSi 1992-1996 S5
Suzuki
Swift GT 1989-1994
Toyota
Camry 4 cyl 2018-2022 S4
Camry LE 2012-2017 S4
Celica Supra 1982-1986
Celica GT-S 2000-2005 S4
Corolla XSE Hatch 2019-2022 S4
MR2 Naturally Asp ALL
Yaris 2006-2013 S5
Triumph
Spitfire 1974-1980
VW
CC Sport 2.0T & 3.6 VR6 2008-2016
Corrado G60 1989-1993
Golf VR6 1997-2003 S4
Golf Not otherwise classed 1998-2008 S5
Golf 2.5 2010-2014 S5
Jetta S 2011-2018 S5
Jetta VR6 1999-2005
New Beetle TDI 1998-2006
Passat 1.8T FWD 1997-2000
Volvo
240/242/244/245 1975-1993

Sport Category Authorized Modifications

These are the Authorized Modifications for Sport Category vehicles (i.e., what you can do to your car and have it stay in Sport Category). Sport Category, along with Tuner and Max, are restricted rulesets. If a modification is not specifically authorized in these Rules, it is not allowed. (If it doesn't say you can, you can’t.)

The first section outlines the Sport Category philosophy, safety minimums, vehicle eligibility and general modification rules. Following that, the individual sections outline what you can do with each system. (e.g., body, engine, suspension, etc.)

Each set of allowances is broken down into two parts, the first of which are the "Layman's Terms." These are a basic way to describe the intent and allowance. For the rules nerds in our midst, or those who think their modification might be close to OK but not quite sure, there will be a link to the full text rules which fully explains what is allowed.

Sport Category is intended to be for the lightly modified daily driver. Sport Category modifications should be generally available at retail performance outlets without having to "custom order" parts, and should be able to be installed by one person, in their driveway, using tools purchased at local hardware or home-improvement stores. This does not include additive or subtractive processes such as welding or removing material to create adjustment. Modifications should not need specialty tools or equipment to adjust or tune (e.g., scales).

Any allowed modification must be a direct-replacement part, using the same attachment points, type and number of fasteners and may not perform any function other than the original purpose of the part being replaced.

In keeping with a spirit of competition with comradery, entrants may be asked to declare specific brand and model numbers of modifications. SCCA shall be free to publish installed modifications.

Sport Category is a restricted ruleset. If a modification is not specifically authorized in these Rules, it is not allowed. (If it doesn't say you can, you can’t.)

1. Vehicles running in Sport, Tuner and Max Categories must meet Safety Level 1 Standards.

A. Roll bars, cages, racing harnesses and other safety equipment may be added, and must meet manufacturers' guidelines for installation. It is highly recommended that they at least meet the minimum for Safety Level 2 or Safety Level 3 Standards.

B. Nothing in the rules prevents you from adding safety equipment; the minimum amount of modification to install safety equipment is allowed.

C. To facilitate safety, vehicles that have an added roll bar (4-points) may remove carpet, seats and trim (including convertible tops) behind the front seats. Vehicles that have an added roll cage (6-points) may remove carpet, seats and trim (including convertible tops) other than the dash.

2. Fuel cells may be used in cars with the following restrictions and allowances:

A. Any replacement fuel cell should be constructed and installed to racing standards. (E.g., FIA/SFI approval, fuel cell enclosure, bladder, and foam baffling.)  

B. OE lines may be replaced in conjunction with a fuel cell provided they are shielded.

C. Any fuel lines—including gauge and vent lines—that pass into or through the driver/passenger compartment, shall be of steel tube or metal braided hoses or bulkheaded.

D. Drivers of cars with modified or replaced OE fuel lines or tanks must wear a suit, shoes, gloves and underwear as specified in SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 2 Standards.

E. Vehicles with modified or replaced OE fuel lines or tanks must have an on-board fire suppression (fire bottle or system) meeting SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 2 Standards.

F. Participants are cautioned that this is not an allowance to maximize fuel delivery by installing higher-performance parts than authorized by category rules. (E.g., installing an upgraded fuel pump if it's not otherwise allowed.)

1. To be eligible for Sport Category:

A. A minimum of 1,000 of that model must have been produced that model year for road use.

B. The vehicle must be capable of being licensed for normal road use in North America and delivered through the manufacturer's North American retail sales outlets.

The following items are guidelines for general repair and modifications in Sport and Tuner Categories:

A. Other than when necessary for safety enhancements, an authorized addition, modification, substitution or removal may not perform a prohibited function nor does it permit the addition, modification, substitution or removal of any other component unless it is specifically authorized.

B. Any part which becomes partially or completely detached during on-track sessions must be fixed and inspected by officials before that vehicle can return to the track. If the part is an aerodynamic addition, the part shall be completely removed for the remainder of the competition.

C. Parts (other than brakes and fluids) are not permitted to be replaced or changed after the car has passed tech inspection unless an Event Official has determined the part to be unsafe or broken badly enough that not changing it would keep the participant from the event.

D. Expendable replacement parts (e.g., bearings, seals, gaskets, filters, belts, bolts, bulbs, batteries, clutch discs, pressure plates, suspension bushings, drivetrain mounts, fenders, trim pieces, fuel filler caps, electrical sensors, etc.) may be used provided they are essentially identical to the standard parts (e.g., have the same type, size, hardness, weight, material, specifications, etc.), are used in the same location, and provide no performance benefit. These allowances are strictly to allow components to be replaced from alternate sources other than the original manufacturer. They should not be construed as an allowance to replace components with those which could be considered a “higher performance” alternative.

E. Any repairs must comply with factory-authorized methods and procedures, or industry standard methods, as follows: If the OE does not provide an appropriate method of repair, industry standard methods and procedures may be used. Such repairs may not result in a part or combination of parts that provides a competitive advantage (e.g., significant change to weight, suspension control, power, etc.) as compared to the standard part(s). Competitors are strongly cautioned to use this allowance to make common-sense repairs only. It is not permitted to use non-compliant parts even if they have been set to OE specifications.

F. Items which do not require the modification or replacement of existing parts and do not increase the peak performance of the vehicle are permitted. (E.g., a turbo or alternator blanket.)

G. Except for authorized modifications, other modifications or equipment will place the car in higher levels as appropriate. Configurations involving damaged parts (e.g., blown fuses) are not typically authorized by the manufacturer and hence are not allowed.

H. Vehicles may be street-driven cars, and SCCA does not encourage or condone the breaking of laws governing pollution control systems or the alteration of street-driven vehicles contrary to state and Federal laws regarding their use. It continues to be the responsibility of the individual to comply with such state and federal laws.

2. Sport Category - Interior/Bodywork

You can add stuff like gauges, pedal covers, shift knobs and things that don’t make the car any lighter and have little to no effect on performance. You can also replace the driver and passenger seats, if they are full size seats and are upholstered. If your steering wheel doesn’t have an airbag, you can change that, and you can add a short-shift kit, if it only changes the shifter bushings and/or the main part of the shifter. Of course, we’re good with data acquisition systems and cameras, and things like spare tires, jacks and tool kits can be removed.

There is also a “safety loophole." If you add a roll bar meeting Safety Level 2 Standards, you can remove carpet and trim (convertible tops included) from behind the driver and passenger seats and even replace an airbag-equipped steering wheel. If you install a full cage meeting Safety Level 3 Standards, you can remove all the trim and carpet other than the dash.

1. Accessories, gauges, indicators, lights and other appearance, comfort and convenience modifications including pedal cover kits, alternate shift knobs and paddles which have little or no effect on performance and/or handling and do not materially reduce the weight of the car are permitted. Delayed shutdown devices such as a “turbo timer,” which perform no function while the car is in motion, are permitted. This does permit the installation of an additional mirror (e.g., Wink®). The addition of small holes for attachment hardware for cosmetic modifications is implicit (e.g., holes for fasteners to mount additional gauges).

2. The driver and front passenger seats may be replaced with the following restrictions.

A. The seating surface must be fully upholstered.

B. The top of the seat, or an attached headrest, may not be below the center of the driver’s head.

C. The seat shall be securely mounted, so as to provide fore/aft and lateral support.

D. Passenger seat must be either OE or match the requirements for the driver’s seat.

3. Alternate steering wheels are allowed, provided the outside diameter is not changed by more than 1-inch from the standard size. Steering wheels with an integral airbag may not be changed unless Safety Levels 2 or 3 Standards are met.

4. Short shift kits which only change the length of the shift rod attached to the gear shift knob may be installed. Kits which change other linkage, mounting brackets and/or tension through springs are expressly disallowed.

5. A hole may be added to interior body panels, the engine compartment, the trunk, and/or a strut bar to provide access to the adjustment mechanism on a shock absorber. The hole may serve no other purpose and may not be added through the exterior body panels.

6. Any item that cannot be held permanently in place by factory-installed fasteners may be removed.

7. Spare tires, tools and jacks may be removed. Any fastening hardware and/or other pieces that can no longer be firmly secured in the absence of the spare tire may be removed, if necessary, to ensure compliance with safety inspection requirements.

8. Data acquisition systems (including video cameras) and the accompanying sensors are allowed but may serve no other purpose during a run than real-time display and data recording.

9. With the addition of Safety equipement, the following allowances apply:

A. If the vehicle is equipped with at least a 4-point roll bar, driver’s seat, and restraints meeting SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 2 Standards:

1. Rear seats carpet and trim behind the seats may be removed.

2. Sunroofs, moonroofs, and similar roof-mounted panel cartridges may be replaced by an alternate solid panel serving no other purpose. Attachment is unrestricted but must be secure.

3. Airbags may be removed.

4. Airbag-equipped steering wheels may be replaced or have the airbag removed.

5. Convertible soft tops and related structure and brackets may be removed.

B. If the vehicle is equipped with a minimum 6-point roll cage, driver’s seat and restraints meeting SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 3 Standards, all interior carpet, trim and passenger seats other than the factory dash may be removed.

When it comes to bodywork, you can add things like a trailer hitch, tow bar brackets and hood fasteners, like straps on a vintage car or hood pins on a modern car. You can also remove emblems, spoilers/valences, mud flaps and the rear wing (as long as it doesn't remove the OE third brake light).

You can also add or remove some bodywork on your car, as long as you could buy a North American street-model of your generation car in that configuration which is classed in Sport Category. For instance, you can't put a JDM bumper cover on your Integra, but you can put an M3 bumper cover on your base-model 3-series. For wings, they can be put on the car as long as the "donor" car the wing comes from is classed in Sport Category. There is a limit here though, wings which are racing style - defined as being constructed by more than three major parts like end plates, an element and supports - are not allowed to be put on a car other than what they came on.

1. Addition or removal of spoilers, splitters, spoilers, single-element rear wings, bumper covers, valances, side skirts, convertible hard tops and scoops/vents is allowed provided that:

A. The removal of parts matches a production model of that generation classed in Sport Category. (eg., You may not remove parts unless a model of that vehicle was available without the part or parts.)

B. It is a production part which is standard or optional equipment of a model of the vehicle classed in Sport Category.

C. It is listed in the vehicle manufacturer’s accessory catalog for that vehicle for normal highway use. This may not allow for parts sold through a manufacturer’s performance catalog (e.g., Ford Racing, HPD, Mazdaspeed, Mopar Performance, Mugen, NISMO, SPT, TRD, etc.).

D. All allowed parts must be installed as directed by the manufacturer. Exact replicas, including weight, from alternate sources are also permitted.

E. Updated parts, replacement parts, or any other changes by the manufacturer documented in the parts catalog or other manufacturer documentation as superseding the original part number used when manufactured are considered to be standard parts.

F. Wings and Spoilers are subject to the following restrictions unless the vehicle is in the same class:

1. The part may not be adjustable.

2. The unit (wing, supports and end plates) may not be constructed by more than three primary pieces. (E.g., a wing with separate wing element, end plates and supports as in a Cayman GT4 or Camaro ZL1 1LE would not be allowed on a lower-class Cayman or Camaro.)

2. Factory emblems, mud flaps, bolt-on front valance lips/spoilers and fog lights (except those integral to a headlight or turn signal) may be removed. Rear wings may be removed so long as the vehicle retains any federally-mandated third brake light.

3. Hood straps or fasteners may be added.

4. Cars may add one (1) rear trailer hitch. The resulting weight addition is allowed. The hitch may serve no other purpose. Factory tie downs and cosmetic pieces (e.g., diffusers) may be modified or removed to facilitate hitch installation. Complete or partial removal of the hitch is allowed for competition, provided it does not result in a reduction in weight compared to the unmodified standard configuration.

5. Tow bar brackets may be installed but may serve no other purpose.

6. Tow hooks and tie downs may be added, modified or replaced. Addition of tow hooks and tie downs are permitted, and location is unrestricted. Non-standard tow hooks shall serve no other function.

3. Sport Category - Wheels and Tires

You can use any size or width wheel and even a spacer to help with fitment, as long as it isn't an ultra-light wheel.

To help figure out what wheels count as "ultra light," Tire Rack helped us come up with a formula to follow: (width + diameter) x multiplier. Things like 15 inch x 7.5 inch wheels need to weigh 10.8 lbs, which is still pretty light but this helps keep the wheel weights more in line with what you usually see on the street. Check out the full rules for correction factors and a helpful chart. 

1. Any width or diameter wheel and wheel spacers may be used provided it complies with the following:

A. Non-metallic wheels must be certified/approved from an appropriate, recognized standards organization. (e.g., FIA, SFI, SAE, TUV, etc.)

B. Wheel spacers are permitted.

C. Wheel studs, lug nuts, valve stems (including pressure-relief types) and/or bolt length may be changed. Wheel bolts may be replaced with studs and nuts, but the number of fasteners may not be changed.

D. Tire pressure monitoring sensors may be removed.

E. Centerlock/spline drive/knock-off type hubs may be converted to lug-type hubs.

F. Aftermarket, accessory-catalog or non-standard OE wheels shall meet the minimum wheel weights determined by the following formula and multiplier.

(Diameter + Width) x Multiplier

15-inch Wheels

(Diameter + Width) * 0.48

16 and 17-inch Wheels

(Diameter + Width) * 0.58

18-inch Wheels

(Diameter + Width) * 0.65

19 and 20-inch Wheels

(Diameter + Width) * 0.71

Example: For a 15-inch diameter by 7.5-inch width (15x7.5) wheel: 15 + 7.5 = 22.5, then multiply 22.5 x 0.48 which = minimum weight of 10.8 lbs. for any 15x7.5-inch wheel.

The primary tire rules are treadwear and width limits. The lowest Treadwear you can have is 200, and the width will depend on your class. Any tire with a treadwear rating of less than 200 bumps you to Unlimited Category, but if your tires are too wide (even with high enough treadwear), then you can bump up classes or levels.

Tires must meet the following requirements to be eligible for use in Sport Category. No tire model will be eligible for Time Trials competition until it meets all requirements of this section. Tire models not meeting the requirements by January 1st are not eligible for Time Trials competition until after the Time Trials National Championships of the year.

1. Specification

A. Minimum UTQG Treadwear Grade of 200.

B. Minimum molded tread depth of 7/32 inch as specified by the manufacturer.

C. Listed in a current year or prior two years of the “Tire Guide®” and/or the “Tread Design Guide®” (www.tireguides.com).

D. US Department of Transportation (DOT) approval.

E. Tires must be designed for highway use on passenger cars.

2. Eligibility Requirements:
The following are prerequisites before a tire can be used in competition at National Time Trials Events.

A. Tire availability: Tires are considered available when competitors can take possession through retail channels. Pre-orders are not considered available.

B. Tires must be equally available to all competitors. Tires that are in short supply do not specifically violate this section. Extensive shortages may result in the tire being placed on the exclusion list until supply is replenished. Tire variations differing from standard specification, delivered only on a limited basis, or only to selected competitors may not be used.

C. Tire models must have tires available in at least four (4) rim diameters and in at least six (6) sizes which meet these requirements.

D. Material Change: Tires which previously met the eligibility requirements that undergo a significant compound change, tread pattern change, or other significant redesign reset the requirement for eligibility described in this section.

E. A tire model which was previously allowed by these rules continues to be eligible for competition until specifically disallowed.

F. Reintroduction: Models that were once discontinued will be considered a new model once reintroduced and must meet all the requirements of this section.

3. Tire Size Limits
Tires are limited to the OE section width, or have a section width up to and including the following (mm):

CLASS

DRIVE

WIDTH LIMIT (in MM)

Sport 1 (S1)

2-Wheel Drive

355

 

All-Wheel-Drive

335

Sport 2 (S2)

2-Wheel Drive

315

 

All-Wheel Drive

305

Sport 3 (S3)

2-Wheel Drive

285

 

All-Wheel Drive

265

Sport 4 (S4)

2-Wheel Drive

265

 

All-Wheel Drive

245

Sport 5 (S5)

2-Wheel Drive

245

 

All-Wheel Drive

225

Sport 6 (S6)

2-Wheel Drive

225

 

All-Wheel Drive

215


Cars in Classes 2–6 and are otherwise legal for Sport Category may bump up classes based on tire size. Cars in Sport 1 with oversized tires will go into their vehicle appropriate Tuner Category class.


4. Tire Use

A. Scored Sessions
Unless a “wet session” is declared by event officials, vehicles must run on the same set of tires for all scored competition rounds, and the tires should be marked with a stamp on grid of the first competition. Tires may also be replaced at the discretion of the Technical Chief in cases safety issues such as damage or excessive wear. (Entrants are warned that damage caused by deliberate abusive handling or deliberate shaving should not be given a replacement allowance.)

B. Unscored Sessions
Vehicles are required to practice on tires which are legal for scored sessions in their class, but do not have to be the same set.


5. Other

A. Tires may be shaved evenly and parallel to the axis of rotation, but may not otherwise be siped, grooved or modified.

B. Tires must have a minimum tread depth of 2/32nds at two (2) points 180 degrees apart.

C. No recap and/or retread tires may be used.

D. Excluded tires: Tires may be excluded for, but not limited to, low volume production, extensive availability limitations and specialty design.

E. The tire must not appear on the following exclusion list, which may be altered at any time by the Time Trials Board (TTB) upon notification of membership.

- Kumho V720 ACR (less than minimum molded tread depth)

- Vitour Tempesta P1

4. Sport Category - Brakes

In Sport Category, you may use any rotor or drum of equal or larger dimensions than stock, and any brake pad (or shoe). Those rotors can even be slotted/cross-drilled, just don't get too fancy and use rotors with too much material cut out, like the super-scalloped drag rotors. You can also put on any DOT-approved flexible metal brake lines.

You can also upgrade to a optional factory brake package calipers and rotors as long as those parts were available on a trim level of the same model and generation.

1. The make and material of brake pad/shoe linings (friction material) may be changed.

2. Non-standard brake rotors may be used provided they are of equal or larger dimensions (diameter and thickness) and match the OE design and are constructed of the OE or heavier materials. Thickness includes the individual plates of a vented rotor, as well as the overall dimension. The diameter for replacement rotors is measured at the minimum outside dimension. Cross-drilled and/or slotted brake rotors may be fitted provided all such voids are within the disc area and comprise no more than 10% of that area.

3. Brake lines may be substituted with alternate DOT-approved flexible brake lines.

4. Alternate brake bleeder fittings (e.g., Speedbleeders®) are permitted. They may serve no other purpose.

5. Standard anti-lock braking systems (ABS) may be electrically disabled but may not be removed or altered in any other way.

6. Brake Rotors and Calipers may be swapped to OE option package configurations from the same model and generation of car, providing the rotor width and diameter are of equal or larger sizes and the number of caliper pistons is the equal or greater. The allowances from 1–5 also apply to option package swaps.

7. Air ducts may be fitted to the brakes and changes may be made to option-package lights, splash shields, backing plates, dirt shields and removable trim pieces to facilitate instillation and routing but not parts like bumper-covers. The intent is that altered parts are easily put back to “stock” or not cosmetically visible. Ducts or holes may serve no other purpose. Control arm mounted brake ducting, or air scoops, may also be fitted, providing they serve no other purpose.

5. Sport Category - Steering and Suspension

The goal here is pretty simple - you are allowed to have an unmodified, mass-produced shock (or strut) which bolts to the original places, is not height adjustable (no coilovers or coilover sleeves) and has only one adjustment.

To make it easy, we have limited you to shocks you can find at the Tire Rack which meet those descriptions. You don't have to buy it from there, but if it's there and is a simple performance shock, chances are you're good to go. 

If there is a shock you really want that isn't available there, and meets the intent of the rules - you can check our "Alternate Allowed Shock" list, or use the "contact us" page to request a shock get approved.

The make of shock absorbers, struts and strut housings may be substituted providing that the number, type (e.g., tube, lever, etc.), system of attachment, material, design and attachment points are not altered, except as noted below. The interchange of gas and hydraulic shocks absorbers is permitted.

1. The shock may be OE or OE equivalent from other vehicles of the same model, not including vehicles on the exclusion list.

2. The shocks/struts may be from the manufacturer’s accessory catalog.

3. The shock must be on the "Alternate Approved Shock" list in these rules.

4. Any other allowed shock must be commonly available (or have been available) at SCCA supporting partner Tire Rack, for regular retail sales and without custom order and may not be height-adjustable. (E.g., no threaded body coil-overs or coil-over conversions.) Parts do not have to be sourced from the Tire Rack, but they must be as they would have come off the shelf from there (e.g., no revalving), or the shock must be on a specific approval list.

If you believe there is a commonly available retail unit which otherwise fits the intent of these Rules but is not on the "Alternate Approved Shock" list, or is not available at The Tire Rack you may write in for specific approval of that brand and model.

5. The following restrictions apply to any and all allowed shocks:

A. Only one shock damping adjustment control is allowed.

B. Suspension geometry and alignment capability, not including ride height, may not be altered by the substitution of alternate shock absorbers. Aftermarket strut housings are allowed provided that they meet the category shock requirements defined herein (i.e., that no suspension geometry changes result). This includes the position of the steering arm attachment point in the case of struts with integrated steering arms.

C. The mounting hardware shall be of the original type. The use of any shock absorber bushing material, including metal, is permitted. Pressed or bonded bushings may be removed from standard parts to facilitate the use of alternate bushings which fit in the original location without alterations to the part. This does not permit the use of an offset shock bushing. A shock absorber bushing may be implemented as a spherical bearing. The bushing attaching the end of a strut to the body or frame on a strut type suspension is a suspension bushing, not a shock bushing. For cars with a bayonet/shaft-type upper shock mount, this allowance permits the removal of the shock bushing from the upper mounting plate (e.g., drilling, cutting, burning out the bushing) and replacing it with another bushing. This also includes shock bushings located in control arms, etc. This does not allow other modifications to the plate itself or use of an alternate plate.

D. To facilitate the installation of commonly available aftermarket shock absorbers, struts, or strut inserts whose shaft size is larger than the center hole of an upper shock mount assembly, that hole may be enlarged by the minimum necessary to accommodate the shock shaft size, provided the following restrictions are met:

1. The enlarged hole must remain concentric with the original configuration.

2. The enlargement of the hole does not require modification of a bearing (as opposed to a washer, sleeve, or plate).

3. Neither the hole enlargement nor the location of the shock shaft changes any alignment parameter. Provided these constraints are met, this permits enlarging of the center hole in an upper shock mount with an integrated rubber bushing, where the bushing is integral to the mount and bonded to the plate and the mount is provided by the OE as an assembly. This includes drilling out and/or removal of the metal sleeve.

6. Bump stops may be substituted or modified, provided they are in the same location as stock. (Shocks/struts with an internal bump stop on the shock shaft meet this requirement.)

7. A hole may be added to interior body panels, the engine compartment, the trunk and/or a strut bar to provide access to the adjustment mechanism on a shock absorber. The hole may serve no other purpose and may not be added through the exterior body panels.

There are no models listed at this time.

Sport Category allows any factory spring from your car, option package for street use from the same generation and factory accessory catalog springs meant for street use - along with commonly available lowering kits.

As with shocks, we have limited you to lowering kits you can find at the Tire Rack which meet those descriptions. You don't have to buy it from there, but if it's there and is a simple lowering kit, chances are you're good to go.

If there is a lowering kit you really want that isn't available there, and meets the intent of the rules - you can check our "Alternate Approved Springs" list, or use the "contact us" page to request a lowering kit get approved.

A set of springs or "Lowering Kit" may be substituted providing that the number, type, system of attachment and attachment points are not altered, except as noted below:

1. The set of springs/lowering kit may be OE from the same model and generation car.

2. The set of springs/lowering kit may be from the manufacturer’s accessory catalog.

3. Any other allowed set of springs or lowering kit must be commonly available (or have been available) at SCCA supporting partner Tire Rack, for regular retail sales and without custom order.

A. Parts do not have to be sourced from Tire Rack, but they must be as they would have come off the shelf from there, or the set of springs must be on a specific approval list.

B. If you believe there is a commonly available retail unit which otherwise fits the intent of these Rules but is not available at Tire Rack you may write in for specific approval of that brand and model.

The following brand/model springs and lowering kits not available at Tire Rack are allowed in SCCA Time Trials Sport Category:

BMR Lowering Springs: All

Manzo Lowering Springs: All

Spoon Sports Lowering Springs: All

Swift Sport Springs: All

Swift Sport "Spec R" Springs: All

RS-R Super Down Springs: All

Tein S-Tech Springs: All

Chevrolet
Corvette
  • Van Steel front and rear Lowering Kit for the Corvette (Part numbers HCO-HB-C5/6-ADJ and SG-11P8K-C5)
Ford
All
  • Steeda Lowering Springs
Hyundai
All
  • Storm Lowering Springs
Mazda
MX5/Miata
  • Springs from the Flyin’ Miata KONI Stage 1 and 2 kits for NA, NB, NC and ND Miatas.
  • Good-Win-Racing “RoadsterSport ND Springs” Part# 61-1847ND
  • Progress Technologies 2006-2014 61-0545NC Lowering Springs
MazdaSpeed 3
  • Corksport lowering springs
Pontiac
GTO
  • JHP King Spring Kit
  • Lovells Springs
Porsche
996
  • RUF Sport Spring Kit
Subaru
All
  • Racecomp Engineering "Yellow"
Toyota/Scion
FRS/86
  • Racecomp Engineering "Yellow"

When it comes to sway bars/anti-roll bars, you can change them as long as they are available at Tire Rack and bolt to all the stock places and run the stock route through the car.

If there is a sway bar/anti-roll bar you really want that isn't available at Tire Rack, and it meets the intent of the rules of design and availability, you can check our "Alternate Approved Anti-Roll/Sway Bar" list, or use the "contact us" page to request a bar get approved.

Substitution, addition or removal of sway bars (at one or both ends of the car) and supporting hardware (brackets, end links, bushings, etc.) is permitted, subject to the following restrictions.

1. Substitution, addition or removal of sway bars may serve no other purpose than that of a sway bar.

2. No modification to the body, frame, or other components to accommodate sway bar addition or substitution is allowed. Non-standard lateral members which connect between the brackets for the bar are not permitted.

3. A substituted sway bar must run the OE route, and mount to the OE places.

4. The sway bar and mounting brackets may be OE from the same model car.

5. The sway bar may be from the manufacturer’s accessory catalog.

6. Any other allowed sway bar must be commonly available (or have been available) at SCCA supporting partner Tire Rack, for regular retail sales and without custom order.

A. Parts do not have to be sourced from Tire Rack, but they must be as they would have come off the shelf from there, or the set of springs must be on the specific alternate approval list.

B. If you believe there is a commonly available retail unit which otherwise fits the intent of these Rules but is not available at Tire Rack you may write in for specific approval of that brand and model.

C. Tire Rack availability is not required for brackets, end links and other mounting hardware.

    The following brand/model sway bars not available at Tire Rack are approved for SCCA Time Trials Sport Category:

    Brand Specific:

    Addco Sway Bars - All

    BMR Sway Bars - All (other than drag-race specific applications.)

    Steeda Sway Bars - All

    Strano Bars - All

    Whiteline Sway Bars - All

    Vehicle Specific:

    Audi
    All
    • ECS Tuning part number 51310 (ES#2806978)
    BMW
    All
    • UUC Motorwerks Swaybar and SwayBarbarian™ Sway Bar lines (Does not include tubular UUC bars.)
    E46 3-Series
    • Ground Control E46M3 Racing Sway Bar set.
    • Racing Dynamics 196 81 46 100 (kit and individual bars)
    F22/F30/F32
    • Hotchkis Sport Swaybar: Part number 22841
    • Dinan Adjustable Sway Bar Set: Part number D120-0585
    Chevrolet
    C4 Corvette
    • Ridetech Muscle Bar Part # 11569120
    • Ridetech Muscle Bar Part # 11569122
    • Johnny O'Connell Corvette C5/C6 Sway Bar set
    Honda
    All
    • Progress Anti-Sway Bars
    Mazda
    Miata
    • Sway Bars from the Flyin’ Miata KONI Stage 1 and 2 kits for NA, NB, NC and ND Miatas.
    • Racing Beat, part numbers: 54100-54107 
    • Progress Technologies 2006-2014 Sway Bar Part No. 61-1232
    • Progress Technologies 2016-2019 Sway Bar Part No. 61-1134, 62-1134, 63-1134
    • Supermiata Sway Bars 89-05
    • OEM Mazda RX-8 Sway Bars Part No. F151-34-151, FE87-28-151A
    Porsche Boxster/Cayman
    • Tarett Engineering Front Swaybar & Bushing Kit
    Scion FR-S
    • Perrin Performance Sway Bars: Part number Front: PSP-SUS-131, PSP-SUS-130, Rear: PSP-SUS-229
    Subaru BRZ
    • Perrin Performance Sway Bars: Part number Front: PSP-SUS-131, PSP-SUS-130, Rear: PSP-SUS-229
    Toyota 86, GR86
    • Perrin Performance Sway Bars: Part number Front: PSP-SUS-131, PSP-SUS-130, Rear: PSP-SUS-229
    Volkswagen
    All
    • ECS Tuning part number 51310 (ES#2806978)

    The following brand/model sway bars not available at Tire Rack have been DECLINED for SCCA Time Trials Sport Category use:

    Note: While these are not permitted if a car is being built to Time Trials Sport Category rules, it is worth noting that if a sway bar is permitted in SCCA Solo Street Category, then that car may run in it's appropriate Time Trials Sport Category Class - as long as preparation rules are not mixed and matched.

    Karcepts Sway Bars (all)

    RV6 Sway Bars for Honda Civic

    Small Fortune Racing Sway Bars (all)

    You can install a 2-point strut brace if there were no strut braces, or replace a 2-point with a 2-point, or replace a 3-point with a 3-point.

    Strut bars are permitted with all types of suspension, subject to the following constraints:

    1. A 2-point strut bar may be added, removed, modified, or substituted, but only with another 2-point strut bar.

    2. A triangulated (3-point) strut bar may be removed, modified, or substituted; substitution may be with either a triangulated or a 2-point strut bar. The connection to the chassis (e.g., firewall, bulkhead) must be in the standard location.

    3. Except for standard parts, no connections to other components are permitted. Additional holes may be drilled for mounting bolts. Only “bolt-on” attachment is permitted. Interior trim panels may be modified to allow installation of strut bars. Holes or slots may be no larger than necessary and may serve no other purpose. This does not permit any modifications to the frame or unibody beyond the allowed mounting holes.

    You may adjust suspension through the OE range of motion (caster, camber, ride height) permitted in the factory service manual. For strut-type suspensions, either camber bolts or camber plates may be installed, provided they are a commercially available product intended for the specific application. We recommend giving the full rules a look if you're are going to add camber!

    Incidental changes to ride height or alignment changes by an allowed part are acceptable.

    1. Both the front and rear suspension may be adjusted through their designed range of adjustment by use of factory adjustment arrangements or by taking advantage of inherent manufacturing tolerances. This encompasses both alignment and ride height parameters if such adjustments are provided by the standard components and specified by the factory as normal methods of adjustment. However, no suspension part may be modified for the purpose of adjustment unless such modification is specifically authorized by the factory shop manual.

    2. If offered by the manufacturer for a particular model and year, the use of shims, special bolts, removal of material to enlarge mounting holes, and similar methods are allowed, and the resulting alignment settings are permitted even if outside the normal specification or range of specifications recommended by the manufacturer. If enlarging mounting holes is specifically authorized but no material removal limits are specified, material removal is restricted to the amount necessary to achieve the maximum factory alignment specifications.

    3. Ride height may only be altered by factory adjustments or as incidental to allowed modifications.

    4. Changes in alignment parameters that result directly from the use of the allowed components are permitted.

    5. For strut-type suspensions, either camber bolts or camber plates may be installed, provided they are a commercially available product intended for the specific application. Resulting ride height changes from installation are permitted. For camber bolts, modification of the strut ears is not permitted unless specified in the service manual or a TSB by the manufacturer, and a maximum of one camber bolt per corner is allowed. For camber plates, any type of bearing or bushing may be used in the camber plate attachment to the strut. The drilling of holes to allow installation is not permitted. The center clearance hole may not be modified.

    6. Sport Category - Electrical

    You can add grounding cables, change spark plugs, spark plug wires, points, ignition coil and do things like disable factory traction control and turn off/disable/remove your tire pressure sensors.

    For the most part, this section is legacy from older cars where all the tuning was done mechanically (which is a no-no). If you're futzing about in the electrical system, it's probably best to read this section. ECU tuning and flashes are covered in the "Engine and Drivetrain" section though, so anyone itching to reflash the ECU, keep scrolling.

    1. The make of spark plugs, points, ignition coil and high-tension wires is unrestricted including spark plug wires having an in-line capacitor. Substitution or addition of ignition coil mounting brackets is permitted, provided they affix to the original standard location and serve no other purpose. (Modification of the distributor cap for the purpose of installing allowed non-standard components is not permitted.)

    2. On cars made prior to January 1, 1968, any ignition system using a standard distributor without modification may be used.

    3. Ignition settings may not be mechanically adjusted outside factory specifications.

    4. Additional battery hold-down hardware may be added to supplement the standard equipment in order to meet safety inspection requirements. It may serve no other purpose.

    5. Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) may be disabled. Altering the signal to the TPMS is permitted.

    6. On cars without the ability to turn off anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control and/or traction control (ESC/TC) from the manufacturer, modifications to defeat the ABS/ESC/TC are permitted. These modifications are limited to altering the inputs to the ABS/ESC/TC processor (e.g., removing fuses, unplugging yaw or steering angle sensors, altering signals, etc.) and may serve no other purpose. Any codes or error lights resulting from ABS/ESC/TC modifications are permitted.

    7. On cars equipped with computer-aided gear selection or “skip-shift” features from the manufacturer, modifications to defeat the skip-shift feature are permitted any may serve no other purpose.

    8. On cars with electronically-controlled exhaust pipe valving downstream of the catalytic converter, devices may be added to satisfy the PCM/ECU provided the OE component is still installed. Such devices shall perform no other function.

    9. The addition of electrical grounding cables and associated distribution blocks/terminals is permitted. Holes may be drilled for mounting only. This does not permit the use of electrical enhancement components such as condensers, voltage controllers, etc.

    7. Sport Category - Engine and Drivetrain

    You can turn off OE Traction Control, disable check engine lights. You can even flash the ECU as long as OBD-port functionality remains, but you can't change or add hardware—which means no chips or piggybacks but certainly no stuffing standalone ECU's in the stock ECU housing.

    1. OE traction control systems may be electrically disabled, but not removed or altered in any other way.

    2. The engine management system parameters and operation of internal combustion engines may be modified only via the methods listed below.

    A. OE ECU software may be reprogramed, but no changes to the factory ECU hardware are permitted.

    B. Any OE OBD2 or newer communications port functionality must remain.

    C. The Check Engine Light (CEL) or Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may be disabled via software.

    D. Only OE sensors may be used for engine management.

    E. Ignition timing may be set at any point on factory adjustable distributor ignition systems.

    You can install a cold-air or short-ram intake, just don’t add any new holes to the body in an effort to duct air to it and the throttle body or intake manifold. And, we hope it goes without saying, you can’t add any forced induction components like turbos, superchargers or intercoolers—gotta stay stock.

    1. The air intake system up to, but not including, the engine inlet may be modified or replaced.

    A. The engine inlet is the throttle body, carburetor, compressor inlet, or intake manifold, whichever comes first relative to the intake flow.

    B. The existing structure of the car may not be modified for the passage of ducting from the air cleaner to the engine inlet. Holes may be drilled for mounting.

    C. Emissions or engine management components in the air intake system, such as a PCV valve or mass airflow sensor, may not be removed, modified, or replaced, and must retain their original function along the flow path.

    You can replace your radiator with a larger one (but not a smaller one) as long as it goes in the stock locations and uses the stock mounts. You can also add water overflow tanks (called expansion tanks).

    1. Engine cooling radiators may be replaced or added with alternate parts subject to the following restrictions:

    A. Radiator core dimensions (width, height, thickness) cannot be smaller than the standard part.

    B. Radiator must mount to OE radiator mounts.

    C. Fluid capacity and dry weight of the radiator must be no less than that of the standard part. Installation of an alternate radiator may serve no other purpose (e.g., to allow a cold air intake passage).

    D. The installation of water expansion tanks is allowed. A water expansion tank is the container which catches overflow coolant.

    E. Thermostats may be added or substituted. A thermostat is a device which controls the passage of water.

    F. Modifications necessary for additional radiators must be the minimum required for installation.

    You can rebuild the engine, but you have to stay within tight factory service limits. If you're going to rebuild your engine, or your engine has been rebuilt, give the full Rules a look.

    1. Engine Service Limits

    A. Engines may be rebored to the manufacturer’s first standard overbore, not to exceed 0.020 inch (0.508 mm). Sleeving is allowed to repair to the standard bore. Only OE-type standard or first overbore pistons of the same configuration and of the same or greater weights are permitted. No interchange between cast and forged pistons is allowed.

    B. Valve seats and guides in older engines originally designed for leaded fuel may be only substituted with alternate components if the dimensions are the same as those of the standard components.

    You can add transmission/differential/transfer cases coolers and lines, and replace shifter bushings, as long as you don't replace rubber ones with metal ones.

    1. Transmission and differential coolers and lines may be added.

    2. Shifter bushings may be replaced; non-metal bushings may not be replaced with metal bushings.

    You can install a cat-back exhaust that exits in the factory spot, or one of the spots if there are multiple exits. Exhaust emissions equipment—especially catalytic converters—need to stay stock though.

    1. Any part of the exhaust system beyond (downstream from) the last catalytic converter, if so equipped, may be substituted or removed provided the system exits the car in the original location and meets safety requirements.

    2. Vehicles equipped with exhausts that exit in multiple locations may change to a single outlet in any of the original locations.

    3. Stainless steel heat exchangers are permitted only if the physical dimensions and configuration remain unchanged.

    4. Modifications of any type, including additions to or removal of, the catalytic converters, thermal reactors, or any other pollution control devices in the exhaust system are not allowed and the system must be operable.

    5. Replacement catalytic converters must be OE if the vehicle has not exceeded the warranty period as mandated by the EPA. Converters must be of the same type and size and used in the same location as the original equipment converter(s). This does not allow for a high-performance unit. If the vehicle has exceeded the warranty period, replacement catalytic converters must be OE-type.

    6. Exhaust hangers which are welded on the car are considered part of the body and may not be changed or removed.

    You can use any oil filter, and add oil coolers and oil cooler lines.

    1. Any oil filter may be added if not originally equipped. Canister-type oil filters may be replaced with a spin-on type filter using a minimum amount of hardware and connecting lines.

    2. Any oil or grease, including synthetic, is permitted.

    3. Coolers and lines may be added for lubricating and hydraulic-type fluids (i.e. not fuel).

    4. The installation of oil catch tanks or oil separators is allowed provided the function of the PCV system remains intact.

    5. Cars with combustion chamber oil injection systems (such as those in rotary engines) may supplement the standard engine lubrication with additional oil supplied through the standard fuel delivery system.

    You can put cosmetic goodies on your car like chrome dipsticks and alternate oil filler caps. You can also remove the plastic covers and such which are on a lot of modern cars so people can better see your engine.

    1. Engine “dress-up” items such as chrome dipsticks and non-standard filler caps are permitted, provided they serve no other purpose.

    2. Upper engine shields made of plastic material, the purpose of which is to hide mechanical components in the engine compartment, may be removed if they have a solely aesthetic and/or acoustic function.

    3. Silicone replacement hoses are permitted as alternate components provided they meet standard parameters with regard to size, shape, location, and performance equivalence.

    8. Other

    When a car is out of production, or parts are no longer available, you can use aftermarket parts as long as they are as close as possible to the original specs, and are not high-performance parts.

    Where a car is out of production and the manufacturer is either out of business, stocks no parts or no longer has a required part, a part of any origin but as similar as possible to the original may be substituted.

    1. The entrant must be prepared to show documentary evidence that one of the three circumstances above applies and that the substituted part is as similar as possible under the circumstances.

    2. Substitute parts which provide improvements in performance (e.g., superior gearing, lighter weight, better camshaft profile, etc.) are not permitted under this allowance.

    9. Sport/Tuner Category - Fuel

    Sport and Tuner Categories have the same fuel rules. Fuel has to be federally approved for use on public highways (no racing fuels), and you can only use E85 or the like if your vehicle owner's manual says you can. (That means you can't tune/reflash an ECU a car to run E85.)

    You can run propane or natural gas if the setup is safe, and the car only runs on those types of fuels.

    1. Sport and Tuner Category vehicles will use fuel which is “Federally approved for use on public highways.” This does not allow racing-type fuels which are available at service station pumps.

    2. Fuels comprised of more than 15% ethanol may only be used when specified by the manufacturer for regular road use (e.g., in the owner’s manual for flex-fuel vehicles, not including emergency situations).

    3. Propane or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel may be used in any category provided that the following conditions are met:

    A. The tank must be located in a safe location on the car and be firmly and securely mounted. This does not permit the cutting of vehicle sheet metal (e.g., the trunk floor) for tank installation.

    B. The tank must conform to Federal and local container standards and have an emergency relief/cut-off control.

    C. For use of propane or CNG as a fuel, no changes to the induction system of the engine may be made with the exception of the necessary fuel lines to the carburetor or fuel injection. There may also be no other engine parts changed.

    D. The entire system must meet local ordinances covering the use and transmission of compressed gas.

    E. Propane or CNG may not be used in combination with another fuel.