The 'National' Bangers as the name suggests is a full contact, crashing formula. This is the last stop on the line that leads to the car crusher for somebody's one-time pride and joy, which has generally failed the dreaded MOT test!

The origins of this Formula date back to the late 1960’s and was intended as an entry level Formula for anyone to get into Oval Motorsport. Although rather specialised nowadays the average working man or woman can still compete in National Banger Racing.

Needless to say this formula is not only a contact formula but it is actively encouraged, the big cars like Ford Granadas, Volvos, Jaguars and now Supras and Lexus are the preferred weapons, and the action at times can be very heavy. Destroying the opposition is often the preferred objective rather than actually winning the race you've just entered.

The name Bangers, lends itself to many types of automobile, Big Vans, Figure of 8, Team racing and even Caravans all get a chance, whilst the lower engine capacity limits on a number of the meetings throughout the season give the chance for the smaller fry to perform without getting their prize blitzed by the big stuff!

The rules for the formula are strictly controlled by the governing body, with rules on car options and design, power-plants, drive train and tyres being controlled to maximise safety, control costs and maintain fairness.

Today's National Banger contains a full steel frame inside and a heavy steel door plate to protect the Driver

With National Banger racing, your budget may or may not have any control regarding your success on track as this is a full contact Formula where everyone can contact with everyone! The novice has every right to retaliate to a faster Star Driver coming through the field! To get you started, there is the possibility of hiring a National Banger from some Drivers whilst others will prepare a car for you for a fee to get you started. Once committed, most Drivers self – assemble and prepare their own cars as per the formula’s rulebook which can be accessed through the ORCi and Promoters’ website.

Race it. It is a full - contact sport and your car will be hit – sometimes heavily! But you can strike back too! Officials will monitor the circuit closely and take action against those committing misdemeanours outside the Rules!

There are no entry fees for the race meetings and the licence fee for the yearly season is £70. With a large number of venues offering meetings for National Banger Racing, drivers can choose to race as little or as often as they wish and may choose to broaden their racing experience by participating in events further afield across the UK mainland, from Scotland to Northern Ireland and the South of England, even Holland and Belgium, although Championship Events may be by Qualification and Invitation only.

Running costs are heavily dependent on damage but are in the region of +/- £400 per meeting.

The drivers are some of the most fearless and talented on the ovals, circulating centimetres apart at full race speed with pushing and shoving front and back and thousands of a second in which to make a decision, go by or push on through! There is never a dull race in National Banger Racing and you will never know the outcome of races!

Last updated  01 April 2020 16:08