The whole concept of 2CV racing is that it’s and inexpensive, fun formula that means that anybody can do it. The rules have been written by the drivers for the drivers with safety and cost in mind. A copy of the rules are available on the 2CV racing website, or by post.

Sensible engine tuning means engines can last a whole season, including a 24-hour between rebuilds, and it only costs between £400 and £1000 to build in the first place. Performance is better than most people think. With 45-50HP and a car weighing only 530Kg the cars can still do 95 mph. Modifications are limited to higher compression pistons from a Dyane, gas flowed heads, lighted flywheels, and skimmed down barrels for even more compression. It is possible to run 2CV racing club approved electronic ignition, but half the field still don't bother running it. You must still run a standard valves, crank, camshaft and carburettor, but you can change the jets and air filter. Front running engines cost around £1000 to build.

Chassis - In the current 2cv rules, you have the choice of three different chassis. There is not much difference between them all; the standard Citreon chassis is the lightest, whilst the SLC and Frome ones are slightly stiffer.

Roll cages - need to be as per the MSA ‘blue book’. The addition of a tube between the front feet of the cage is highly recommended, and is compulsory for 2002.

Tyres - have to be 15 inch Firestone road tyres. Sizes used are 125, 135, or 145. Most people these days run 145s. A set can last more than a complete season - not including the 24-hour race when between 4 and 8 tyres are needed to complete the distance. Scrubbed tyres are available through the club at a discount.

Suspension - The one area were racing 2cv’s are noticeably different from road 2cvs, is that the race 2CV’s suspension has been lowered and stiffened. This means there is none of that ‘scrapping the door mirrors on the road’ when cornering like standard road 2CVs. Suspension mods are very limited, modified front arms can be supplied by a number of teams or simply modified by yourself to reduce the front wheels caster due to lowering of the car. The springs inside the suspension cans can be changed. Normally 150 to 200 percent stiffer springs are used. Shock absorbers can be replaced with alternatives and bump stops can be removed. Camber and caster angles are free. It is possible to fit an Ami super anti roll bar to the front suspension but this seems to be out of fashion these days.

The steering rack has to be standard, but track rods are normally lengthened while track rod adjusters can be strengthened or replaced. Through the racing club it is possible to buy improved adjusters. The steering column has to have a universal joint added to the bottom. This means you can lower the steering wheel position to suit your driving position.

Standard wheel bearings and kingpins are still used, but its best to replace them every year. If the car is doing the 24-hour race then it’s advisable to replace them before the event. There's nothing like changing a wheel bearing at two in the morning in the middle of the race if you don't!

Exhausts systems must pass MSA noise levels. There are two main types of system used, a modified road system or a 2 into 1 race system. The basic rule of thumb is that the standard system gives better torque whilst the 2 into 1 gives better top end power. 

A standard 2CV 602cc gearbox is used, the only modifications permitted are that you can extend the gear stick and put a bung in the speedo cable hole if no speedometer is fitted to the car. Gearboxes even in race trim seem to last for ever, and can be easily rebuilt. Normal problems are oil leaks from the front oil seal.

The standard 2CV braking system is used, and is more than capable of lasting the 24-hour race even in road car condition. 2CV’s from the mid 70’s onwards had discs on the front and drums on the rear, and if anything a standard 2CV is over braked anyway. Brake pads are free, and there are a number of different pads on the market. But in general the standard front brake pad is just as good.

On the exterior of the car it is possible to remove the front and rear bumpers and the fitting of a front spoiler is mandatory. The side and rear windows can be replaced with 4mm thick Perspex sheet.

The cost to build a 2CV racing car can be as little as £1500-£2000, but it depends on how much work you do yourself and how competitive you want to be.