My Intense Ride-along With Red Bull Global Rallycross

When it comes to racing, the last vehicle that probably comes to mind is a Ford Fiesta.  Instead, you likely think of the sleek open-wheeled vehicles of Formula One and IndyCar, or perhaps the overly modified iconic stock cars of NASCAR – but don’t judge until you’ve seen the Fiesta in action.

The Fiesta is one of the premier vehicles of Red Bull Global Rallycross – along with several others, including the Subaru WRX, Honda Civic, and Volkswagen Beetle – which compete in some of the toughest conditions of any United States racing series.  Founded in 2011, Red Bull GRC has continued to grow immensely, with stops at some of the country’s most iconic destinations, but instead of typical speedways, these events are often held at much more unique locales.  From the Marine Corp Air Station in North Carolina to RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. to the Port of Los Angeles, the series offers racing fans some of the most picturesque backdrops for an entirely different experience.

But it’s the vehicles that have helped the event grow in recent years and while these supercars might look like something you’d purchase at your local dealership, there’s a lot more under the hood.  The cars used for Red Bull GRC roll out of the factory like any other production model but, from there, they’re turned into Frankenstein-like creations, complete with improvements to the chassis and engines, as well as spec safety features that ensure the vehicle is safe for drivers like Tanner Foust and Scott Speed.  Out of the factory, the typical front wheel drive Ford Fiesta weighs about 2,700 pounds and has a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that pumps out about 200 horsepower.  In comparison, the Fiesta used for Red Bull GRC has a Ford 2058cc powerplant engine with a Garrett Turbocharger, allowing for 550 horsepower, and weighs roughly the same, once unnecessary weight has been shed.  It’s these modifications that allow the Fiesta to not only go from 0 to 60 mph in 1.9 seconds but also allow it to withstand asphalt and dirt, along with a multitude of 70-foot jumps over the course of a race.

RIDING ALONG IN MY AUTOMOBILE

To truly understand the vehicle’s capabilities, one of Red Bull GRC’s best, Swedish-born driver Patrik Sandell, offered his services to take me for a couple of laps in his modified No. 18 Fiesta.  The first-time course – the legendary Bader Field in Atlantic City – was new to both Sandell and Red Bull GRC.  Once a thriving airport within walking distance of Atlantic City’s big name casinos, the 143-acre Bader Field permanently closed in 2006 but has remained a destination for many of the city’s outdoor events.

The track, one of the longest of the 2016 season, measured 1.102 miles, was compiled of 80-percent pavement and 20-percent dirt and featured 10 turns, plus the mandatory 70-foot dirt jump.  There were several turns that looked tight, which meant the drivers had to prove their worth when matched up against several over vehicles.  With Atlantic City’s most notable structures located in the background, it was a scenic track, though there would be little time for sightseeing on this particular joyride.

After signing a waiver or two, something I’m used to, it was time to get suited up.  After a few simple instructions and precautions, I was sized up for my fire suit and my helmet – and, with the temperature what you’d expect from the New Jersey shore on a summer day, I felt like a baked potato.  As I met some of the other riders of the various other cars, I slowly began to make my way to the No. 18 Fiesta.  This particular vehicle was much more aesthetically pleasing than those I see cruising around my neighborhood – maybe it was the color combination of Cuttwood, the title sponsor, or maybe the awesome spoiler.  Whatever it was, I soon made my way into the passenger seat and prepared.

At this point, one of Sandell’s crew members started the engine, suddenly it was like I was front row at a Guns N’ Roses concert and Slash just erupted into a solo.  To accompany the loud roar of the engine was a potent whiff of fuel that made its way into the cabin – a smell slightly more potent than gasoline.  While I continued to wait for my driver and for the crew to double check the vehicle, I began to get a little bit nervous, which I think was mainly brought about by the idea of hitting a giant dirt jump in a car.  I’ve done two laps in an IndyCar with Mario Andrett at 185 mph and conquered the snow in a Pro 2 with Luke Johnson, so what in the hell was I worried about when it came to this modified Fiesta?

Sandell soon slipped into the vehicle and prepared himself for departure, the way he’s probably done so many times before.  I had the chance to speak with him briefly, mostly small talk, though it wasn’t easy over the engine.  One last check of the safety harness, a closing of the door and we made our way to the track.  At this point, the nerves about the 70-foot jump were in full force and as we were given the thumbs up to take off, the engine somehow managed to get even louder – and then there was a jolt.  Like a roller coaster ride that starts off quick, I was flung to the back of my seat as we bolted toward the first turn.  When we hit the first turn, it was time to slam on the brake to reduce speed, which throttled me towards the windshield, yet left Sandell completely unfazed.  This became the routine, speeding up and braking, and within no time, the nervousness was gone and it was replaced by pure adrenaline – but then midway through lap one, the jump approached.  I could feel my eyes getting bigger as it drew near and Sandell hit the gas to pick up speed and off we went.  In the air, I held on for dear life, but as we landed back down to earth, it was soft, feeling more like a sled hitting the snow.

The landing simply proved just how well these vehicles are maintained, because with any other type of production vehicle that landing would have felt much differently – and left me with a sore back.  At the end of our second lap – one that included the joker lap, meaning we avoided the jump – the two of us made our way off of the track and back toward the paddock area.  Sweating profusely at this point because of the safety gear, I managed to thank Sandell for the ride and wish him luck, my eyes still large and accompanied by a bulging grin frozen to my face.  I was ready for another lap or two.

These Red Bull GRC vehicles offer a much different experience than typical race cars.  It’s not simply all about speed and finesse, there’s much more than that.  With a mixture of mud, asphalt, and jumps, drivers really have to be ready for whatever comes their way and also, as I learned, have an iron stomach from all the jostling they endure for six laps.  It’s quick, to the point, and quite badass.

Ed Miller is a contributor for CraveOnline Sports and a movie quote extraordinaire. You can follow him on Twitter @PhillyEdMiller or “like” CraveOnline Sports on Facebook.