Different Classes @ Le Mans 2005

[wookie]

Can anyone explain (simply) what the new classes mean at LM. Why, for example, is the Champion Audi not an LMP1, bearing in mind it was in the "top" group last year along with Rollcentre et al? What was wrong with the old LMP900 then LMP675 categories followed by the GT classes. Confused.

[ccharlie6]

LMP1 is for prototypes adhering to the new 2004 rules which means shorter overhangs, less downforce, more power and a wooden plank running the length of the car (see the nasamax for an example of this), the rollcentre dallara and the champion audi don't conform to these rules and therefore have more weight and a shorter wing and less power as penalties because of this, they will be both be classed in the same class this year but running to a different set of rules, sorry if its a bit confusing but its as simple as i could make it! im sure theres someone else that can simplify

[top fuel]

so... in terms of winning outright, which cars are going to be more likely??? the "new" ones or the old ones??? ie have the new regs made cars slower (of course they will have...)

[ccharlie6]

it will still probably be an audi (or maybe reliability permitting a zytek), although the new reg class is ballistic down the straights due to less drag and downforce and more power so it should be interesting