McRae tests new Fiat Super2000
Former world rally champion Colin McRae got behind the wheel of the new Fiat Punto rally car, the Super2000, in Sardinia, Italy
The new car is being designed to Super 2000 regulations, which have been touted as a possible replacement for WRC technical regulations for the World Championship from 2007.
McRae completed six laps of the San Biagio special stage, with Anna Andreussi as co-driver.
"Fiat has a great tradition in rallying, that's why I immediately accepted their invitation to test the Super2000," McRae told Autosprint. "To try out a car built for this new category has been an interesting experience. The Super2000 cars are very different from WRC cars.
"Even though they are four wheel drive, there's less power. You immediately notice the engine lacks the push from a turbo. On top of that, driving it is much more physical, a bit like it used to be, because there is no electronics.
"My sensation has been positive: the Punto S2000 has good traction with large potential for improvements."
McRae, who made his WRC return this season with Skoda at the Rally GB, said there were no deals to compete with Fiat in the future.
"I don't know, my job was limited to this test," he said. "At the moment there are no agreements for the future, but I wouldn't rule this possibility out. It depends also by how many constructors will have a car like this. I'm convinced Super2000 can be the category of the future."
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