HPA Motorsports Inc. Project Decathalon

Introducing the Decathlon Motorsports Raven by HPA Motorsports Inc.

NOVEMBER 15, 2008

Unveiled on the Dunlop booth at the 2008 SEMA show in Las Vegas NV, the “Decathlon Raven” project by HPA Motorsports explores the relationship between athleticism and auto racing with a car built to tackle the myriad challenges faced in different competitive arenas.

Commissioned by the Decathlon Motor Car Company, the concept behind this car was to develop a cohesive package of finely balanced performance attributes. Rather than setting a goal to have the most power or fastest top speed, a successful track star must be well rounded in its skill set and abilities.

Starting off with a 2004 Volkswagen R32, a platform HPA is very familiar with, the build team took lessons learned from its 2004 and 2007 award winning SEMA project cars and merged those with its more extreme racing renditions to create a multi purpose Hot Rod package that was at home on any playing field yet maintained a trickle of creature comforts. Although fully race prepped and significantly weight reduced, practicalities like factory glass and air conditioning ensure that steamed up windows are never an issue.

To build the Decathlon Raven, the chassis has been stripped for weight and prepared for competition with a chromoly roll cage, aluminum fuel cell, and air jacks. The interior is kept tidy with factory dash and simple trim panels while safety items like multi-point harnesses and fire suppression systems are cleanly integrated into the cabin. Racing bucket seats and integrated display system complete the cockpit.

Outfitted with a competition version of HPA’s new Blackjack turbo system featuring CVP short runner intake manifold and air-to-water intercooler system, the power delivery is smooth yet brawny. Mated to the technologically savvy DSG gearbox with custom transmission software and upgraded clutch pack, the AWD system is controlled with a competition Haldex program so the driver can navigate any apex with confidence.

Riding on KW Club Sport Coilover suspension, the handling can be dialled in for comfort on cross country endurance races, or tightened up for the road course. A hand fabricated wide body kit was massaged by HPA’s fabrication team resulting in an aggressive stance that enabled the fitment of 245/35ZR18 Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tires. A carbon fiber hood and updated lighting are cloaked with the Decathalon uniform of red and black scalloped paint treatment.

During its construction, the R32 picked up the nickname of “Raven”; inspired by the all powerful shape shifting bird of Pacific Northwest First Nation’s culture. The car’s ability to transform itself from slalom champion to drag racer is akin to the mythical bird, and the wings of the Raven are subtly reflected in the swooping paint lines. The amazing characteristics of the upgraded DSG transmission reflect the mischevious nature of the "Trickster".

As even the wealthiest automotive aficionados are buckling down in today’s economy, the appeal for a multi user friendly package under the unassuming VW badge entices the player looking for a fun addition to their garage. With 500 HP and 475 ft.lbs. of torque (SAE AWD corrected), the Decathlon Motorsports package packs a powerful punch that rivals the world’s super cars without flaunting a flashy nameplate.