French driver Nicolas Montador is not only an outstanding racer but also a highly skilled off-road vehicle builder through his company, WSR Off Road. At the 2023 Fenix Rally, I had the chance to witness his latest creation in action: the WSR 500 IFS V8. In this article, I will unveil all the secrets of this extraordinary machine. Let’s discover the WSR 500 IFS V8: Nicolas Montador’s new frontier in off-road engineering.
A Pioneer in Ultra4 Racing
Anyone with an interest in off-road racing over the past decade will recognize the name Nicolas Montador. The “boss” of WSR Off Road has participated in some of the most prestigious competitions, including the first European Ultra4 race in 2012. Since then, Nicolas has competed in almost every Ultra4 Europe event and even tackled the legendary King of the Hammers in California—an experience he hopes to relive in 2024.
A 100% WSR Off Road Design
Before diving into the technical details, let’s clarify a key term: IFS (Independent Front Suspension) means that the front axle features independent suspension, as opposed to a solid axle setup. This configuration is common in pickups, trophy trucks, Baja vehicles, and certain 4×4 models like the Toyota HDJ 100.
While it may seem straightforward on paper, designing a fully functional IFS system from scratch is a complex engineering challenge. This prototype was entirely developed using 3D CAD software before any physical components were manufactured. The process allowed Montador to fine-tune the tubular chassis, optimize suspension geometry, and ensure that every part—from the shock absorbers to the drivetrain—worked seamlessly before construction began.
Montador dedicated countless hours to perfecting the design on-screen before moving on to fabrication. Once finalized, the chassis components were laser-cut, bent, welded, and assembled in his workshop. By December 2022, the prototype had taken shape, but this was just a preliminary assembly to ensure all parts fit perfectly. After final adjustments, the frame was painted, components were permanently installed, and the vehicle was completed.
By February 2023, the WSR 500 IFS V8 was ready for its first real-world test at the Fenix Rally in Tunisia.
An Ultra4 Rig Built for Baja and Rally-Raid
In Ultra4 racing, particularly at King of the Hammers, there is a longstanding debate between solid axle and IFS setups. Drivers like Erik Miller swear by solid axles, while others, such as Shannon Campbell (the first to win KOH in an IFS vehicle), prefer independent suspension.
Each system has pros and cons: solid axles are more durable, require less maintenance, and excel in rock crawling. IFS, on the other hand, demands more upkeep but shines in high-speed desert sections.
Montador chose to build an IFS vehicle both as a personal challenge and to expand his technical expertise. After debuting at Fenix Rally, his 2023 schedule included King of Poland, Rallye Breslau (in Ultra4’s new class), and possibly a return to the U.S. for King of the Hammers and the Vegas to Reno race.
Precision Engineering & Striking Design
The WSR 500 IFS V8 boasts exceptional build quality, meticulous attention to detail, and a design that exudes speed. Its elongated front end is built to devour miles effortlessly, while the rear wing enhances aerodynamic efficiency. Despite its size, the vehicle feels agile, avoiding the bulky appearance of some Ultra4 rigs. Weighing just over 2,000 kg, it maintains the lightweight philosophy Montador prefers for optimal handling.
WSR 500 IFS V8 Technical Specifications
Chassis:
- CAD-designed tubular frame built using SolidWorks
- Laser-cut and TIG-welded 25CD4S steel tubing (45×2.5 mm)
- Select tubes reinforced with internal aluminum rods for added strength
- FIA-approved tube connectors
Dimensions:
- Length: 4.40 m
- Wheelbase: 3.05 m
- Front track width: 1.95 m
- Overall width: 2.40 m
- Weight: 2,032 kg
Engine:
- Chevrolet LS3 V8, upgraded from 6.2L to 6.8L
- Custom crankshaft, pistons, and connecting rods for enhanced performance
- ECU tuned by Yannick of Access Car (using Sybele Advance system)
- 620 hp and 600 Nm of torque
- Custom-built stainless steel exhaust by WSR Off Road
- Allisport rear-mounted radiator with custom air intake for improved cooling
- Three additional oil radiators for steering, engine oil, and transmission oil
- FIA-certified 320L fuel tank by Advanced Fuel Systems, positioned behind the racing seats
- Bosch 044 fuel pump
- Goodridge oil/water/brake lines, custom-assembled at WSR
Transmission:
- Sadev SCL 924 sequential gearbox (6-speed + reverse)
- Custom-built transfer case developed in collaboration with Syncro Gearboxes
- Transfer case made from 7075 aerospace-grade aluminum, featuring custom gears by Syncro Gearboxes
- WSR-manufactured driveshafts
A Masterpiece of Off-Road Engineering
Nicolas Montador’s WSR 500 IFS V8 is a testament to his dedication, technical expertise, and passion for off-road racing. With a design that balances speed, agility, and ruggedness, this Ultra4 rig is set to leave its mark on both European and American off-road circuits.
