Motorsport: Allen back for D1NZ round two

Photo / Matthew Hansen

After a brief hiatus from the series, Rattla Motorsport has returned to the Demon Energy D1NZ National Drifting Championship in time for round two of the 2016-'17 season at Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon.

The team and their driver, Shane Allen, will debut their newly built Ford Mustang, which replaces their famed ex-NZV8 Ford BA Falcon.

Speaking with Herald Sport, Allen was reserved about the Mountshop Mustang's goals for the weekend; the focus instead being to get to grips with the all-new car, rather than push for results.

"This is our first competitive round in this car, so we'll just see how we go," he said.

"It's just a matter of time, getting used to the car and to get that set-up right. I know it'll be a good car to drive."

Along with a long list of new parts, the Mustang also carries a much shorter wheel-base than the team's outgoing four-door Falcon. This means that it can initiate and switch drifts in an easier fashion - something that Allen has to adapt to this weekend.

"The Mustang is a lot grippier and has a lot more lock [than the Falcon]. It's just a different car to drive.

"It's a bit snappier, and there's other bits and pieces that you need to get used to with the new car. It's just a case of getting used to how snappy it is, and the feel of the car."

On the opening day of the weekend yesterday, Allen said that the team experienced "teething issues" with the car, which saw them qualify down the order in 23rd.

BMW pilot Daynom Templeman claimed pole position, ahead of 'Fanga Dan' Woolhouse, Nico Reid, Bruce Tannock, and series leader Cole Armstrong.

Battles for both the Pro Sport and Pro series will take place later today after on-track testing.​