Formula Vee is one of Australia’s most accessible open-wheel circuit based racing categories, combining simple, proven technology with close and competitive racing.
The cars are relatively affordable to buy and maintain, with Volkswagen-based engines and components that are readily available and straightforward to work on. A well-maintained Formula Vee can remain competitive for many years, making it an appealing option for both newcomers and experienced drivers.
But affordability doesn’t mean a lack of excitement.
A defining feature of Formula Vee racing is keeping the car on the edge throughout the race, often running in tight formation just metres apart. Cars race hard and close, with frequent lead changes, slipstreaming and finishes often separated by fractions of a second. Despite their modest power, Formula Vee lap times are only slightly slower than those of much more powerful racing cars.
With drivers ranging from 14 to 75 years old, Formula Vee provides an opportunity for a wide range of competitors to race closely matched cars where driver skill matters.
The result is simple, affordable and competitive real open-wheel racing.
The Class
When Formula Vee was established in Australia in 1965, it was designed as a learning class of motor racing. As the sport grew, the formula quickly established itself as a popular form of racing world-wide.
Formula Vee Racing provides the thrill of fiercely competitive motor racing at an introductory cost. Permitted modifications are minimal so that greater emphasis is on driver skill rather than budget.
Up until 2004, Formula Vees in Australia where based in the 1200cc Volkswagen engine, gearbox and suspension. After much research and consultation, the Australian Formula Vee community began its shift towards the Volkswagen 1600cc engine, gearbox and suspension. Today, Formula Vee looks modern, are easy to work on.
Formula Vee Specifications
A standard 1200cc or 1600cc air cooled VW engine with a standard 4 speed Volkswagen gearbox, and VW components in front and rear suspension. The engine is straightforward to remove and dismantle. The chassis are simple and body panels are either aluminum or fibre glass and easy to repair.
| Engine | 1200cc or 1600cc standard Volkswagen engine. No modifications permitted other than those stipulated in the rules. |
| Gearbox | Standard Volkswagen gearboxes – mounted 180 degree about for better weight distribution. |
| Front Suspension | Volkswagen Type 1 H-Beam with some modifications. |
| Rear Suspension | Free, provided standard Volkswagen axle tubes are used. |
| Wheels | Minimum weight and size restrictions |
| Tyres | Control racing compound tyre. Tyres are all weather & unidirectional. |
| Minimum Car Weight | 485kg(1200cc) / 500kg(1600cc) including driver. |
| Cost | New 1600cc spec car costs around $75,000. Second hand competitive 1600cc costs around $20,000. |