After much anticipation, Proton has officially revealed the Proton S70 R3 race car, built to compete in the Sepang 1000km (S1K) endurance race next month. This announcement follows a teaser video released earlier, showing the car in its final stages of development.
Based on the teaser video, the Proton S70 R3 will most likely be powered by a modified 1.6-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated Campro engine, replacing the 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine usually found in the Proton S70.
To comply with the racing regulations, only engines between 1,401 and 1,600 cc without forced induction are permitted in the top-tier M-Production (MTC) class in S1K. Proton did not reveal any official power figures for the S70 R3 engine, but it’s expected to significantly exceed the 109 hp and 150 Nm found in the standard Persona and Iriz.
Aside from the engine modifications, Proton has also significantly transformed the S70 to prepare it for the tough endurance race. These modifications include a race-spec H-pattern manual gearbox, a robust roll cage and a stripped-out interior for weight reduction. Additionally, the car features upgraded brakes, a revised suspension setup and aerodynamic enhancements to optimise its performance on the track.
Proton is set to field two units of the S70 R3 in the upcoming 2024 Sepang 1000km endurance race. They will face fierce competition, including the reigning champions, Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia, who have dominated the S1K for the past two years. The Honda Malaysia Racing Team, with their Honda City and City Hatchback race cars, will also be strong contenders in this exciting race.
Don’t miss the action-packed 2024 Sepang 1000km race, happening from November 20th to 23rd.
RELATED: Here’s your first look at the actual S1K Proton S70 R3 race car!
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