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The requirements for racing car aerodynamics are far more extensive and demanding than those for passenger cars. Since many of the relevant aerodynamic features cannot be measured easily, if at all, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) provides a detailed insight into the flow phenomena and helps in understanding the underlying physics. This paper summarizes some aspects of the aerodynamic optimization process for the Opel Calibra ITC racing car, starting from the production car design and including exterior and interior aerodynamic computations, together with wind tunnel experiments.

The Opel Calibra Coupe is an example of a newly developed series production vehicle which has been conceived with a view to low drag and good fuel consumption. A great deal of world-wide aerodynamic expertise went into its development, including newly developed measurement techniques and investigations to provide inputs for computational codes. The aerodynamic development program for the vehicle, from the 1:5 scale model stage to the full size detail development stage is outlined as well as specific examples of some interesting individual investigations.