RP24
The Royale Racing RP24 features naturally-aspirated 1.6-liter Ford Kent inline-four producing 105 horsepower through Hewland Mk9 four or five-speed sequential transmission serving as stressed chassis member and rear-wheel-drive at 886 pounds curb weight. Formula Ford specification includes tubular steel space frame chassis, double wishbone suspension front and rear with adjustable geometry, 13-inch racing slick tires sized 450/65 front and 525/65 rear, disc brakes, open-wheel single-seat configuration with minimal bodywork, 90.9-inch wheelbase, and FIA-compliant safety equipment meeting period Formula Ford 1600 regulations emphasizing driver skill over technical complexity.
RP24 produced 1972-1977 represents successful Royale Racing Formula Ford chassis claiming 11 championships across Britain and Europe with notable drivers including David Leslie and Trevor van Rooyen, establishing British constructor credentials in cost-controlled junior formula creating driver development pathway toward professional motorsport careers. The Ford Kent engine standardization ensures competitive parity eliminating power advantages through controlled specification, while lightweight construction and proven Hewland transmission create reliable racing platform supporting extensive Formula Ford series worldwide, establishing accessible entry point into single-seater competition through affordable acquisition and operating costs compared to higher formula categories, demonstrating Formula Ford philosophy emphasizing racecraft and driving precision over technical spending, with RP24 success establishing Royale reputation maintaining production through 1990s creating extensive chassis knowledge base and spares availability supporting vintage racing community celebrating Formula Ford heritage as fundamental driver training ground launching countless professional racing careers through affordable wheel-to-wheel competition.