Background
The S2000 class was conceived by the FIA in 1997 as a new Regional Rally Formula to make rallying more affordable by replacing the ultra-expensive vehicles produced to WRC rules.
The formula is based on production body shells and specifies a number of “one-make” components, including the transmission and all-wheel-drive transmission. It also specifies a maximum selling price for a rally-ready vehicle and a degree of control over the maximum prices of spare parts.
Engine capacity was limited to two litres with engines being naturally aspirated and limited to 8500rpm for reliability and lower maintenance costs. Even with these restrictions the cars produced more than 260 BHP.
South Africa was the first country to introduce the S2000 as the premier formula for National rallying. The Toyota S2000 was based on the RunX derivative of the Corolla. Toyota Motorsport SA was the first to build a rally car to the S2000 class regulations, the first to enter one in competition and the first to win an event and a national championship with one.
Toyota’s South African-developed S2000 rally car made its World Rally championship debut in the Welsh 2006 Rally GB in the hands of experienced Scottish driver Alister McRae.
This Car
Built by Toyota South Africa for Works Driver Johnny Gemmell to compete in the 2007 South African Rally Championship. The car finished in the top 8 in every round winning both the Sasol South African Rally and the Toyota Dealer Gauteng Rally outright. It is one of only two full factory spec cars built by Toyota for its works drivers with other dealer team supported cars such as Alistair McRae’s RED run car being a slightly lower specification.
Technical Specification
Engine: 2000cc naturally aspirated max 8500
Transmission: 6 speed SADEV 4-wheel drive & SADEV Differentials
Suspension: Proflex 3way suspension with hydraulic bump stop
Power Output: 280 Hp approx