Active Tyres SEAT Ibiza Track Car

For as long as he can remember Elliot Wallis has always had an interest in motor sport and whenever he can find the time, he takes part in track days on circuits around the country.

Elliot finally gave into his passion for racing back in January 2006 when he purchased a SEAT Ibiza 1.8T Cupra R via the internet. The technicians at Wallis & Son share Elliot's enthusiasm for motor sport and after a great deal of planning they set about transforming the compact SEAT hatch into a storming racing machine.

This particular Ibiza is powered by a Volkswagen Golf 1.8-litre petrol turbocharged unit which is renowned for its robustness so the team were off to an excellent start. Elliot says: "I choose the Ibiza because it's small and light. This model offers nimble handling even in standard form and with our car being the sporting Cupra R version it's the ideal track car. What is more, all Volkswagen products (SEAT is a part of the Volkswagen Group) are noted for their strong build quality and reliability which helps while you're out there on the track."

Out went the rear and front passenger seats along with some of the trim and in went a roll cage, fire extinguisher and special race driving seat. Anti-roll and cross member bars were fitted to further tighten up the car's suspension to enhance handling out on the track, beefy new brakes replaced the standard set up and new adjustable shocks were installed. Then it was the turn of the engine to receive treatment. The unit was stripped apart and rebuilt and after the race preparation work was completed power output had been boosted to astounding 305bhp - that's a lot of power for a lightweight hatchback!

All the race preparation was performed by two of the dealership's technicians during the workshop's rare quieter moments and in their own time. Elliot and his team are often seen at tracks days across the country at circuits such as famous Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Castle Combe. Elliot says: "Like an increasing number of racing enthusiasts we simply book our track days via the internet, turn up and race when time allows. We take the car out about ten times a year and other members of the team have a go out on the track too. We don't actively compete in any formula. We take the car out for fun, the car promotes Wallis & Son and our Active Tyres business at every appearance, and it's a great team building exercise. What's more, I get to indulge my hobby."

The Active Tyres Ibiza Cupra R also appears on Wallis & Son stands at various events across the region including the Newmarket Show, and at matches at the Sawston Rugby Club which is sponsored by Active Tyres.