The Mazda Team

Two Mazda3 MPS performance hatchbacks and a turbocharged Mazda RX-8 SP rotary sports coupe will headline Mazda's biggest attack on Targa Tasmania in over a decade. Mazda has secured a top notch driver line-up that will ensure all three Mazda Motorsport-prepared race cars perform at their peak.

The Targa Mazda3 MPS

Targa's racing regulations require most of the fittings in the Mazda3 MPS remain standard. That means both Mazda3 MPS race cars will compete with standard audio equipment, power windows and carpets and upholstery intact. Suspension springs, shock absorbers, brake pads, seats, belts and the steering wheel have been replaced. A PCD roll cage, racing seats with five-point safety harnesses, fire extinguishers and navigating equipment have been added for competition.
Additional ventilation is allowed to the brake discs, and mufflers and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may also be modified. Catalytic converters must remain standard. The engine, gearbox, differential and drivetrain are standard.

The Targa Mazda RX-8 SP

The RX-8 SP is a high-performance model of the standard Mazda RX-8 and a series of these special models have been produced locally. Other Mazda models that have worn the SP monkier include the
MX-5 SP and the RX-7 SP and both have successfully competed in Targa. 
The Mazda RX-8 SP is fitted with a Garrett turbocharger and is competing in the Modern Competition, so it is slightly more modified than the twin Mazda3 MPS showroom-spec rally cars.
Unlike most of its competitors the Mazda RX-8 SP will compete with standard audio equipment, power windows and carpets and upholstery intact. Suspension springs, shock absorbers, brake pads, seats, belts and the steering wheel have been replaced. A PCD roll cage has been added and, Sabelt racing seats with five-point safety harnesses, fire extinguishers and navigating equipment are added for safety.
The mufflers and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may also be modified. Catalytic converters remain standard. The engine, gearbox, differential and drivetrain remain standard.