WRC Car Profiles PartIV: VOLKSWAGEN POLO R

The result of a 17 month development programme, Volkswagen’s Polo R world rally car made its competitive debut on the opening round of the 2013 season and claimed its first win on the second. The power behind 10 victories in 2013, the Polo R is the car to beat in 2014.

Engine type	In-line four cylinder, 1.6 litre, turbocharged
Bore / stroke	83.0 mm / 73.8 mm
Power (max)	315 hp (232 kW) at 6,200 rpm
Torque (max)	425 Nm at 5,000 rpm
Transmission type	Four-wheel drive

Gearbox	Sequential shift, six forward gears and one reverse
Differentials	Mechanical front and rear
Clutch	Double-disc sintered metal
Suspension	MacPherson struts with adjustable dampers
Steering	Power-assisted rack and pinion
Brakes	Ventilated disc brakes (front diameter 355mm on tarmac)
Wheels	8 x 18 inch for tarmac, 7 x 15 inch for gravel
Length	3,976 mm
Width	1,820 mm
1,820 mm	2,480 mm
Weight	FIA regulation 1,200 kg minimum (1,360 kg with driver and co-driver)