The Chaparral 2J was unlike anything seen before in motorsports. Built for the 1970 Can-Am series, this boxy, angular machine redefined aerodynamics by generating immense downforce independent of speed. It was a true engineering marvel that pushed the boundaries of racing technology.
Revolutionary Aerodynamics
The 2J’s method of producing downforce earned it the nickname “Sucker Car.” Instead of relying on wings and airflow at high speed, like traditional race cars, the 2J had two 17-inch fans at the rear of the car, driven by a secondary Rockwell two-stroke engine. These fans literally sucked air from the underside of the car up into the atmosphere, off the track, creating a vacuum that essentially glued the car to the ground. To enhance this effect, sliding polycarbonate skirts were installed at the lower edges, with a continuous seal to the road surface.
Such innovation meant that no matter its speed, the 2J would have blistering amounts of grip, and even the best competitors struggled against its grip. In theory, the suction force was powerful enough to keep the car suspended upside-down on the ceiling of a room.
Performance Beyond Compare, Scandal Within
The Chaparral 2J was quick to show off its promise:
Won fastest lap but did not win, in its first race at Watkins Glen.
Across every race it contested, it took pole position.
So dominant that rivals and officials expressed concerns.
Despite its revolutionary design, the FIA ruled that the device was, for all intents and purposes, a movable aerodynamic device that violated the spirit of the rules, and the car was banned at the end of the 1970 season. This was the end of the 2J’s brief but glorious career.
Technical Specifications
Engine and Powertrain
Engine: Chevrolet aluminum big-block 465-cubic-inch V-8
Horsepower: 680 HP @ 7,000 RPM
Carburettor: Chaparral crossover manifold with Lucas fuel injection
Transmission: 3-speed Chaparral “automatic”
Chassis and Body
Chassis: Aluminum semi-monocoque; engine cantilevered from rear bulkhead
Cooling System
Radiator: Front-mounted
Oil Cooler: Behind radiator
Aerodynamics
Fans: Dual 17-inch axial-flow fans driven by a Rockwell two-stroke 55-bhp engine
09-inch-thick articulated polycarbonate sheets – maintains underbody suction
Tuning: Adjustable rear flap to balance downforce
Suspension and Brakes
Front Suspension: Double tubular wishbones with coil-over shocks, anti-roll bar
Rear suspension: Anti-squat twin trailing arms, reverse lower A-arms, single top links, coil-over shocks, anti-roll bar
Brakes: 12-inch ventilated discs with Airheart calipers
Wheels and Tires
Wheels: Chaparral alloy, single-piece, magnesium, spoked (15 in. diam, 6-bolt mount)
Tires: Firestone; Front: 13.9 x 15, Rear: 17.0 x 15
Dimensions and Weight
Wheelbase: 95 inches
Length: 145 inches
Width: 78 inches
Front Track: 60 inches
Rear Track: 55 inches
Ground Clearance: 4 inches
Dry Weight: 2,030 lbs
The Chaparral 2J was only around for a short time in competition, but it’s one of the most innovative cars in the history of motorsport. Meanwhile, its active aerodynamic system laid the groundwork for future downforce and gripes advancements, something that can still be traced to designs used in modern-day formula and endurance racing.
Famed Chaparral creator Jim Hall famously defended the design with the following:
“If I can create a better mousetrap that the regulations allow, I deserve to use it.”
Its continued popularity, despite its ban, proves the 2J is still one of the most creative race cars ever built, and serves as a reminder that motorsport innovation is always both loved and feared.
