Royale RP21
The Royale RP21 was the first classic Formula Ford I drove. Before stepping into the Royale, my experience was limited to driving a much newer 2011 Ray, meaning there was a 36-year gap in design philosophy between the two cars. Although both compete within the same Formula Ford regulations, they require noticeably different driving styles.
The biggest differences were the chassis characteristics and the aerodynamics. Compared to the Ray, the Royale has a much softer chassis and less streamlined bodywork. While the aerodynamics were competitive for the era in which the car was designed, they become a noticeable disadvantage when racing cars that are ten years or more newer. The improved bodywork on later cars generates less drag, allowing them to achieve higher top speeds, particularly on circuits with long straights.
However, the softer chassis also has its advantages. The RP21 generates good mechanical grip in low-grip conditions, making it a particularly capable car in the wet. Where newer, stiffer chassis can become more difficult to manage, the Royale remains predictable and forgiving, allowing the driver to carry confidence in challenging conditions.
Specification
- Chassis: Royale RP21
- Engine: Ford Kent 1600cc
- Gearbox: Hewland LD200
- Tyres: Avon ACB9
- Weight: 420 kg
Strengths and Weaknesses
One of the car’s greatest strengths is its rear-end stability. The rear of the RP21 inspires confidence, particularly in wet conditions where traction is limited. This allows the driver to apply the throttle earlier and carry momentum while other competitors may be struggling for rear grip.
The car’s biggest weakness is its weight distribution. With comparatively less weight over the front axle, the RP21 naturally tends towards understeer. Rather than rotating willingly into the corner, the front tyres can struggle for grip, making it difficult to achieve the ideal racing line without careful driving and setup adjustments.
Setup Approach
A significant part of our development work focused on increasing front-end grip. Whether through changes to weight distribution or suspension setup, the objective was always to improve the car’s willingness to rotate into the corner.
In a Formula Ford, the fastest setup is rarely one that feels completely planted. Instead, the ideal balance is achieved when the rear of the car is free enough to help rotate the chassis, while still remaining stable and predictable. Finding this balance allowed the RP21 to corner more efficiently without sacrificing the confidence that made it so effective in wet conditions.
What I Learned
The biggest lesson the Royale RP21 taught me was how to adapt my driving to suit a car’s natural characteristics rather than fighting against them. Instead of trying to eliminate the understeer completely, I learned how to minimise its effects while making the most of the car’s exceptional rear stability.
In wet conditions, this became a real strength. By trusting the rear of the car and exploiting the grip available, I was often able to carry more speed and apply the throttle earlier than competitors driving newer chassis. It reinforced an important lesson that still applies today: understanding a car’s strengths is often just as valuable as trying to fix its weaknesses.
