Le Mans 24 Hour Car Categories

Although all cars compete at the same time, there are separate classes.

A prize is awarded to the winner of each class, and to the overall winner. The number of classes has varied over the years, but there are now four.

The top two classes, LMP1 and LMP2 are separated by speed, weight, and power output. From 2011, the next two classes are production-based grand tourer (GT) classes, GT Endurance Pro and GT Endurance AM. Both of these classes utilize the LM GTE, or “Le Mans Grand Touring Endurance” regulations.

LMP1

These are the bully boys of the Le Mans 24 Hours, with top speeds in excess of 200mph and then braking to 75mph in 120 yards these machines will awe even the most experienced motor sport aficionado. They lap the rest of the field numerous times during the course of the 24 hour race.

  • Top speed: 210mph
  • Minimum weight: 870kg
  • Most are hybrids with a petrol or diesel engine plus an electric motor
  • Engine size – unlimited for hybrids but fuel use is limited

LMP2

The busiest drivers on the track these experts need to be able to handle the pressure of maintaining their position in their own class, lapping the GT cars and spotting faster LMP1 cars approaching at top speed.

  • Top speed: 190mph
  • Minimum weight: 900kg
  • Capped costs: chassis prices are limited to £328,500 and engines to £58,500
  • Each car must have one amateur driver

GTE Pro

A crowd favourite the battles between these Ferraris, Porsches, Corvettes and Aston Martins are just as closely fought as those in the faster categories and many people believe that these are the most attractive cars on the track.

  • Top speed: 185mph
  • Minimum weight: 1,245kg
  • Less downforce makes them 40sec a lap slower than LMP1 cars
  • Must be based on a road-going car

GTE Am

    This category is open to cars similar to those in the GTE Pro category, but the teams must have at least two amateurs behind the wheel during the race.

  • Top speed: 182mph
  • Minimum weight: 1,245kg
  • Cars must be at least a year old
  • Paul Newman and Nick Mason are among Le Mans’ previous amateur racers