The Dream of Owning a Race Car
As a car and motorcycle-obsessed kid, the dream of owning a race car was always at the forefront of my imagination. The allure of high-speed thrills, the roar of an engine, and the adrenaline rush of competition are experiences that many children fantasize about. However, what often goes unnoticed in these daydreams is the immense dedication, skill, and hard work required to build and maintain these incredible machines.
The Allure of Racing
It didn’t matter what type of racing it was; whether it was touring cars, rally cars, or even out-of-the-box sports cars, the high-performance world ignited a passion for all things automotive in countless youngsters. The excitement of watching cars tear through tracks, the precision of skilled drivers, and the engineering marvels that make these vehicles possible create a captivating spectacle. For many, this fascination evolves into a lifelong love affair with motorsports.
Discovering Hill Climb Racing
My journey took an exhilarating turn when I stumbled upon hill climb racing. This motorsport combines everything I loved about cars—power, speed, and technical prowess—into one thrilling package. Picture my favorite rally cars, adorned with wide body kits and aggressive aerodynamics, racing up winding mountain roads. The visual spectacle is mesmerizing, and the sound of roaring engines fills the air, creating an atmosphere that is both electrifying and intimate.
Hill climb racing has a rich history and is often regarded as one of the closest experiences to the now-defunct Group B rally series. The courses, set against breathtaking backdrops, allow spectators to get up close and personal with these fire-breathing machines, making it a unique and thrilling motorsport experience.
The Citroen C2: A Hidden Gem
Among the many incredible vehicles in the hill climb racing scene, one build stands out: a seemingly unassuming Citroen C2. At first glance, it may not appear to be a race car, but this particular C2 is a masterclass in automotive engineering. Beneath its exterior lies a full-blown race car, meticulously crafted to deliver exceptional performance.
This Citroen C2 is powered by a 1,340cc inline-four engine sourced from the legendary Suzuki Hayabusa. While a 1.3-liter engine may seem small in the automotive world, this powerhouse produces an astonishing 220 horsepower at a screaming 12,000 rpm. Coupled with the car’s lightweight chassis, weighing in at just 675 kilograms, this setup ensures blistering acceleration and agility on the track.
A Race-Ready Interior
Step inside the cockpit, and you’ll find that nothing remains of the standard Citroen C2 family hatchback. The engine and driver’s seat have been strategically positioned in the center, enhancing weight distribution and handling. The car has been converted to rear-wheel drive, a significant departure from the production model’s front-wheel drive system, allowing for a more dynamic driving experience. Additionally, it features an electronic powershift gearbox, further emphasizing its race-ready credentials.
The Citroen C2’s transformation into a hill climb racer is nothing short of remarkable. It’s a vehicle designed for one purpose: to conquer the challenging mountain courses that define this thrilling motorsport.
The Sound of Performance
For those who appreciate the auditory experience of racing, the Citroen C2 hill climb racer delivers a symphony of sound. According to the montage videos from the YouTube channel HillClimb Monsters, this car sounds absolutely menacing as it roars through the gears, carving up corners with precision and grace. The combination of its lightweight design and powerful engine creates a driving experience that is both exhilarating and unforgettable.
A Unique Opportunity
For those in Europe who have ever dreamed of owning a race car, the opportunity has arrived. This extraordinary Citroen C2 hill climb racer is currently for sale, listed by its owner and racer, Luka Fabijancic. Located in Croatia, the car commands a price tag of 28,000 euros (approximately $30,631 USD at the time of writing). While this may seem steep, the extensive work and engineering that have gone into creating this machine make it a worthy investment for any motorsport enthusiast.
A Race-Prepared Machine
It’s essential to note that this Citroen C2 is not street legal; it has been specifically designed for hill climb racing. Therefore, while the idea of driving such a thrilling machine daily is enticing, it’s crucial to remember that this car is built for the track, not the road.
In the world of motorsports, the Citroen C2 hill climb racer stands as a testament to the creativity and passion that drives automotive enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of racing or simply appreciate the artistry of engineering, this car embodies the spirit of competition and the relentless pursuit of speed.
