Most Successful R5 Rally Car Ever—Škoda Fabia R5
- Images by Shawn Glad
The Škoda Fabia R5, engineered by Škoda Motorsport, is the most successful car ever in the R5 rally class. Originating from the Czech Republic and part of the Volkswagen Group, this car is a specialized rally version of the standard Škoda Fabia and adheres to R5 racing regulations. Making its competitive debut in 2015, the Fabia R5 replaced the Škoda Fabia S2000, quickly becoming Škoda’s most successful competition vehicle to date.
Under its hood, the Fabia R5 holds a potent 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine delivering just under 300bhp and 310lb ft of torque. This engine is an advanced version of Volkswagen’s 1.8-litre EA 888 engine, featuring significant upgrades such as a new crank mechanism, redesigned valve distribution and cylinder replacement system, along with a revamped fuel system with a high-pressure pump and injection nozzles. Enhanced cooling and oil systems ensure optimal performance, supported by a turbocharger akin to that in the Audi S3. Power is directed to all four wheels through a five-speed sequential transmission, highlighting its divergence from the standard Fabia model.
Adhering to the R5 regulations, which are a tier below the top-level World Rally classifications, the Fabia R5 is designed with moderated power and aerodynamic features. However, these modifications do not hinder its performance on the rally stages. As the inaugural R5-spec rally car from the Volkswagen Group, the Fabia R5’s legacy is perpetuated by the Rally2 Evo, the next step in rally car evolution under R5 specifications.
Illustration by Shawn Glad
About the Illustration
This illustration of the Škoda Fabia R5 was inspired by a reference photo from a 2015 press release, announcing the homologation of the Fabia R5 by the International Automobile Federation (FIA). The design caught my eye for several reasons: Firstly, I am an avid fan of World Rally cars, and secondly, there’s nothing quite like a pristine hot hatch equipped with all-wheel drive, a roll cage, and enough go-fast modifications to ensure its dominance in the competitive R5 rally class.
The finished illustration you see here evolved from an initial pencil sketch to a detailed line drawing, all created using Procreate on an iPad. Lately, the iPad has become my medium of choice. It provides the flexibility to sketch freely without the commitment, avoiding the accumulation of scratch paper drawings that typically end up in the trash—a common outcome of my casual drawing sessions.
Ink Line Drawing by Shawn Glad
Pencil Sketch by Shawn Glad
For those interested, all these drawings were sketched by hand, using only the press release photo printed out as a reference.
Enjoy!
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