The racer is powered by a 1.6 liter engine that uses direct injection (this is controlled by Magneti Marelli SRP-HP unit) and turbocharging to deliver 304 hp at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 350 Nm at 3,250 rpm.
The unit is mated to a Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox that uses a Cerametallic twin-disk clutch and sends the power to all four wheels via front and rear locking differential. The FIA does not allow WRC cars to use a center differential, so the DS3 WRC disconnects the rear wheels (when this is necessary) by using the hydraulic hand brake.
The braking system uses ventilated discs with water-cooled four-piston calipers for the front axle. The vehicle rides on 18 inch rims in the tarmac configuration and 15 inch wheels for gravel and snow.
The starting point of the car was the production DS3 model. However, the car has received a a roll cage chassis extension structure and a long list of modifications, such as: an aerodynamic splitter for the front bumper and a new rear spoiler, redesigned fascias and new wings.
The vehicle was developed together with Citroen racing drivers Philippe Bugalski, Sebastien Loeb, Dani Sordo and Sebastien Ogier, who provided important feedback for the project.
The DS3 WRC is scheduled to enter its first race at the Rally Sweden, which will take place on February 10-13, 2011.
You can check out the press release below (PDF file) for the full details.
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