The World Sportscar Championship
The World Sportscar Championship (WSC) was a renowned endurance racing series sanctioned by the FIA from 1953 to 1992. It showcased iconic races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Daytona, and Sebring. During its early years, legendary cars like the Mille Miglia and Targa Florio graced the calendar.
Era of Prototypes and GTs
From 1962 to 1971, the WSC entered what is widely regarded as its Golden Age. Sports prototypes like the Ferrari 330 P4 and Ford GT40 competed fiercely alongside GT cars. In the '70s, Group 5 Sports Cars and Group 4 Grand Touring Cars dominated the championship, with Porsche's 935 proving almost invincible.
Group C and Privateer Teams
In 1982, Group C prototypes were introduced, limiting fuel consumption and encouraging competition. This attracted manufacturers like Porsche, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Mazda. Privateer teams entered the fray with the C2 class, where BMW and Cosworth engines were popular.
Decline and Rebirth
Despite its success, rising costs and technical complexities led to manufacturers abandoning the championship in the early '90s. In 1994, IMSA in North America used the moniker "World Sportscar" for a time, while the FIA briefly sanctioned the FIA GT Championship for GT cars.
In 2012, the FIA World Endurance Championship was created, sharing elements with the ACO's Intercontinental Le Mans Cup. Today, the WEC continues to feature prototypes, GT endurance cars, and the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans as part of its schedule.