Four classes of cars make up the World Endurance Championship landscape.
This week, the World Endurance Championship makes its lone stop in the United States for the 1000 Miles of Sebring (March 19, 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m., MotorTrend TV).
The WEC features four classes of cars. Here’s a quick look at the different classes:
Hypercar
This designation is a little confusing because “Hypercar” will be the name of the car that is shared in design and specification with IMSA’s GTP car, both of which debut in 2023. Presently, Hypercar means the top class in WEC, including the all-domineering Toyota GR010 Hybrid, the Alpine Elf A480 and the Glickenhaus 007 LMH. These cars can have an optional hybrid component, and can be rear- or all-wheel-drive.
Toyota Gazoo Hypercar
James Moy PhotographyGetty Images
LMP2
WEC’s Le Mans Prototype 2 is essentially the same as the IMSA LMP2 – an Oreca 07 chassis and a Gibson V-8 (Gibson is a British engine builder). In either series, it’s a spec class. At the 1,000 Miles of Sebring, four of the 15 LMP2s entered are Pro-Am cars, meaning the driver lineup is a mixture of professionals and amateurs.
LMP2
Team Penske
LM GTE Pro
Similar, but not identical to IMSA’s GT3 cars that make up with GT Daytona classes, the LM GTE Pro typically has an all-professional driver lineup. Cars include the Chevrolet Corvette C8.R, the Porsche 911 RSR and the Ferrari 488 GTE Evo. They’re lighter and faster than their IMSA counterparts.
LM GTE Am
These cars are identical to the Pro cars, but have a pro-amateur driver lineup. In addition to the above brands, they include the Aston Martin Vantage AMR.
LM GTE Pro
Porsche Motorsports
Keyword: Gallery: 2022 WEC Spotter's Guide for Hypercar, LMP2, GTE Classes