GTD Technical Regulations Released

Photo: John Dagys

With just a mere hours left in the year, IMSA released the final draft version of the GT Daytona regulations to TUDOR United SportsCar Championship teams.

The rulebook, which had been circulated to manufacturers over the past three weeks, features the technical specifications for the new-for-2014 class, which combines existing cars from GRAND-AM’s GT class, new GT3-based machinery as well as Porsche’s 991 Cup-based 911 GT America.

As expected, driver aids such as anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control are not permitted, but specific FIA-approved manufacturer-installed roll cages may be permitted following IMSA’s review of the homologation papers.

It’s understood FIA GT3 models such as the Audi R8 LMS and BMW Z4 GT3 have been allowed to use the slightly thinner roll cage instead of GRAND-AM’s previously mandated size, which had been outfitted on R8s that previously competed in the Rolex Series.

Additionally, all cars must also run IMSA’s single-element rear wing, supplied by Crawford Composites.

Of note, carbon chassis are permitted, meaning the McLaren MP4-12C could be eligible for competition.

While no model-specific specification were released, the baseline minimum weight for the class is 1215 kg, with a maximum engine displacement of 8.5 liters for normally aspirated and 4.0 liters for turbocharged powerplants.

IMSA will be able to adjust a car’s performance through minimum weight, engine restrictor/boost pressure, fuel capacity, gurney and rear wing height adjustments.

All BoP adjustments take effect seven days after notice.

A final version of the GTD regulations is expected to be released following this weekend’s Roar Before the Rolex 24.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John