Last weekend the DC Rally Team stepped up to all new rides for Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally, Travis Pastrana and Ken Block piloted new open-class 2008 Subaru WRX STI's for the first time in competition.
Apart from a completely new body look compared to last year's model (note the 5-door hatchback design and fresh lines), the new rally cars Travis and Ken are using have improved performance features. The new body style has a longer wheelbase, a wider track between wheels, and better weight distribution between the front and rear. Add in new double wishbone suspension on the rear and you've got a car that handles better, is more stable, and is able to push to higher speeds than its predecessors and competitors.
If you haven't seen the commercial for the new Subaru, check it out on YouTube by following this link. It features a bunch of Travis' and Ken's highlights as they push Subaru capabilities at X Games, rally events, and even a snowboarding park.
Despite the new whips, Travis and Ken (and many of the other drivers, for that matter) had a brutal rally at STPR and its narrow, fast roads. Travis listened to a stage note wrong, took a corner wide, and slammed into a dirt embankment, causing heavy damage to the brand new Subi. Ken messed up his suspension on a random rough stage on Day 1 though mechanics were able to repair the damage overnight; Ken was forced out of the points hunt for STPR.
Luckily for Travis and Ken, the tough finishes means nothing to the overall standings. Travis is still one point out of first, and Ken is a mere two points behind Travis in 3rd overall heading into New England Forest Rally on July 11. Stay tuned!
