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Home > Race Cars > Pro
Formula Mazda
The Pro Formula Mazda (PFM) was developed to offer a more high-tech,
high performance race car than the previous version. However, the old philosophy of
maintaining cost is still incorporated into the PFM. Although the PFM costs more to
purchase and maintain than the Standard FM, it is considerably less than its market
equivalents. The PFMs performance can be compared to a Formula Atlantic, but the cost
to purchase and maintain it is much more economical than the FA.
THE PFM CHASSIS
The PFM Chassis/Tub is a Carbon fiber composite built to FIA standards with a 19 U.S.
gallon fuel cell.
THE PFM ENGINE
The PFM engine is the Mazda "Renesis" (RX-8) rotary engine with encrypted ECU including
rev limiter, pit speed limiter, traction control, and fuel trim.
THE PFM TRANSAXLE
The PFM transmission is a six-speed sequential with no lift shift.
THE PFM SUSPENSION
Pushrod, inboard with two-way adjustable shock absorbers, adjustable rear sway bar,
cockpit adjustable front sway bar. Front suspension tethered for safety.
PFM SPECIFICATIONS
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Weight ....1090 lbs
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Front Track ....61.5
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Rear Track ....58.5
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Wheelbase ....100.5
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Horsepower ....240
The Pro Formula Mazda (as well as the Standard FM) is a spec formula car which means
that all of the cars are and must remain the same. The engine is sealed to prohibit
tampering.
THE SMILE APPEAL
The Pro FM is the latest and greatest in technology with top speeds over 160 mph,
over 2.5 Gs in the corners, and 0-60 in 2.9 seconds.
THE DRIVER
The PFM is definitely for the more experienced racer, but Texas Autosports can
prepare you to drive the Pro Formula Mazda with expert coaching and training in the
Standard Formula Mazda.
THE CLASS
The PFM is raced nationally in the Star Mazda Series North American Championship which
is sanctioned by IMSA. This Series is the premier development series in North America
for drivers seeking a cost-effective method of climbing the motorsports ladder. The
Star Mazda North American Championship is the support series for the American Le Mans
Series and runs a ten race schedule across the U.S. and Canada. It also gets delayed
television coverage by the Speed Channel. Many drivers are now choosing this Series
because of the excellent exposure afforded them. Complete information regarding the
Star Mazda North American Championship can be found at www.starmazda.com.
If pro racing is not for you, the PFM can also be raced at a local, amateur level.
It is currently classified as a Formula Atlantic (FA) with SCCA. It may also compete
in racing events sanctioned by the following organizations:
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COMMA is a small club similar to SCCA that is based out of Tulsa,
Oklahoma. They run all of their races at Hallett Motor Racing Circuit ( www.hallettracing.com)
which is 30 miles west of Tulsa. The race weekends provide you with about 10 practice
sessions and two races. COMMA offers a very relaxed atmosphere and plenty of track
time for your money. Hallett is the home track to several FMs.
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NASA is a fairly new organization to Texas. NASA sanctions races
each year at Motorsport Ranch and TWS. Check out the NASA website at www.nasatx.com
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No Problem Raceway is a 200 acre, multi-use motorsports park located
55 miles southwest of New Orleans in Assumption Parish on Highway 996 and offers the
Grand Bayou Road Racing Series. No Problem is the home track to a growing number of
FMs. Check out their website at: www.noproblemraceway.com
Texas Autosports plans to add a local series for Pro Formula Mazda
beginning in 2005. See the Pro Formula Mazda Series page for
more info.
Or, if youre not interested in racing, but just want to own and drive a Pro
Formula Mazda, you have the following options:
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Motorsport Ranch - Motorsport Ranch is a Sports Car Country Club.
It is a 1.7 mile road course located 15 minutes South of Fort Worth on Highway 377.
It is open most weekends to members for driving their race cars, go karts, motorcycles,
or sports cars in a controlled, safe, environment at high speeds. For membership info,
go to their website at www.motorsportranch.com.
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Texas World Speedway Motorsports Club offers both driver education
and lapping events on the 1.8 and the 2.9 mile road courses. Driver education events
are structured for new and intermediate drivers who want to learn to drive to their
fullest potential. For more info go to www.texasworldspeedway.com and
click on Motorsports Club.
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