The different Classes of Le Mans
At the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and most other endurance sports car racing, there are multiple different categories running within the same race. Essentially
Le Mans Prototype 1 Category
The Le Mans Prototype 1 commonly abbreviated LMP1. Intended for automobile manufacturers, to showcase their latest technology. These cars are generally going for the all out win at Le Mans. In LMP1 you will find cars manufactured by Audi, Toyota, Honda, Pescarolo, and Lola coupes. Naturally aspirated engines limited to 3400 cc (207.5 ci). Turbochargers and superchargers allowed for petrol engines with a maximum displacement of 2000 cc (122 ci) and for diesel engines with a maximum displacement of 3700 cc (225.8 ci), restrictor-limited to around 520 bhp. No limits on the number of cylinders for any type of engine. Fuel tank size of 75 litres (16.5 gallons) for petrol engines, 73 litres (16 gallons) for hybrid petrol engines, 65 litres (14.3 gallons) for diesel engines and 71 litres (15.6 gallons) for hybrid diesel engines. Wheel size (maximum diameter) of 28.5 inches (720 mm) and maximum width of 16 inches (410 mm). LMP1 cars are generally the most powerful, with faster straightaway speeds. For hybrids with electric acceleration on the front wheels, the system can only activate above 120 km/h to prevent traction advantages out of corners; there is no such restriction for electric acceleration on the rear wheels.
Le Mans Prototype 2 Category
Similar to the LMP1 catergory intended for privateer entries. Only production-based engines are allowed in LMP2 with diesel banned. Naturally aspirated engines limited to 5000 cc (305.1 ci) with a maximum of eight cylinders. Turbocharging and supercharging are allowed for petrol engines with a maximum displacement of 3200 cc (195.3 ci) and a maximum of six cylinders, restrictor-limited to around 450 bhp.
Le Mans Grand Touring Endurance (Professional) Category/h4>
Both LMGTE Pro, and Am classes utilise the FIA GT2 Based off of road going sports cars from manufactures such as Ferrari, BMW, Corvette, Porsche, Lotus, and others, and adapted for competition. These classes are distinguished only by the status of the driver, with the Professional class having only professional drivers.
Grand Touring Professional (Amateur) Category
Simililar to the LMGTE Pro Class, designed for Amateur or “gentlemen drivers”, utilizing the same cars as LMGTE Pro.
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