Former British Rally Champion Mark Higgins, driving a Subaru WRX STI, set a new lap record for the 37.8-mile Isle of Man TT course. Completing the circuit in 19 minutes, 56.7 seconds he beat the previous record by a full two minutes. That time was set by another rally driver, Tony Pond, in a Rover 827 Vitesse 21 years ago.
The Subaru's 295bhp engine, brakes and Pirelli P Zero Trofeo tyres were unmodified, but the suspension was adjusted to cope with the high speed bumps and jumps on the course. A 'high decibel' exhaust was fitted to provide spectators with an audible warning of the car's approach. For safety the WRX was equipped with a roll cage, race harness and fire extinguisher.
The TT organisers allowed just one lap to go for the record with no opportunity for high-speed practice runs. The rules did allow a flying start with the Subaru crossing the line at 125mph. At its fastest the car apparently reached 162mph. Higgins described the attempt as "the most exhilarating and frightening thing I have ever done".
The standard Subaru WRX STi is currently available with free satellite navigation and a 20bhp power upgrade. However road cars have some way to go to challenge the overall course record: 17 minutes and 12.3 seconds set by John McGuiness riding a Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade motorcycle in 2009.
John Lambert - 9 Jun 2011