SEAT gains weight

BTCC organisers have used weight changes to balance the pace of cars - like the SEAT - built to European Touring Car Championship rules with those built to the BTCC's own technical regs. The SEATs started the year with an 1140kg base weight, but they were given a 50kg break before rounds 13-15 at Mondello Park.

Now they have been moved back towards their original position, following a series of strong performances, including wins for both SEAT drivers - Jason Plato and Rob Huff - at Brands Hatch last weekend.

Series boss Alan Gow told Autosport magazine: "If you look at their performance now, compared to when the weight was last changed earlier in the season, they don't need so much of a break now. The change is made on the basis of strict analysis of performance."

SEAT has accepted the decision but Ian Harrison who runs the Vauxhall team which currently holds the advantage in both manufacturers' and drivers' title chases is not happy. "The cars that SEAT started the season with weren't nearly as well-developed," he said. "It's common sense to go back to the original weight - halfway doesn't address the issue."