Autocross is a timed event held over a closed course marked by cones or pylons. Originally referred to as gymkhanas,
autocross is a form of motorsports that emphasizes safe, low-cost competition with a high fun factor.
This is a timed competition where drivers navigate one at a time for one lap through a temporary course marked by traffic cones,
rather than driving on a race track with multiple other cars like driver's ed,
time trials, or club racing.
Autocross tends to place more emphasis on car handling and driver skill than on sheer horsepower,
and events typically have many classes which allow every type of Porsche from vintage to racecar to compete.
Categories also often separate front engine, mid engine and rear engine Porsches into separate classes.
For more information and details please see the latest PCA Zone 8 Autocross Rules.
Gymkhana is now distinguished from autocross and defined as a single lap driving event with “gimmicks”
included on the course. This can include a section to be taken in reverse,
stopping to pick up or drop off an object, stopping at a specific point,
parallel parking or other similar driving skill.
Autocross is the only driving event where 16 and 17 year olds may participate according to the rules of the Junior Participation Program.
In all other driving events participants must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid state driver's license.
Speeds are slower in absolute terms when compared to other forms of motorsports, usually not exceeding highway speeds,
but the activity level can be very high when measured in the number of turns per minute around the pylons.
Autocross courses are typically 40 to 70 seconds in length. In addition to being a national-level motorsport in its own right,
autocrossing is a good way to learn skills that transfer to road racing, as drivers learn vehicle control and club ethics.
Autocross events are usually held in large paved areas like parking lots or airfields. Typically, new courses are created
for each event so drivers must learn a new course each time they compete. Prior to driving, a competitor will walk the course
taking mental notes, and developing a strategy to be refined upon subsequent runs.
In addition to regional and zone Porsche Club of America (PCA) events, other national organizations such as the
Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) and National Auto Sport Association (NASA) sponsor autocross events throughout the United States.
The only equipment normally required is an approved helmet.
For information on upcoming events become a member and see
the Zone 8 Events Calendar
and the National Calendar. You can also
subscribe to the Zone 8 Calendar to receive event information by email.