2006

The 2006 event is being marked by a new duel between Audi and Pescarolo. The German manufacturer is taking some risks. He abandoned his historic model, the formidable R8 which took advantage of five victories in six appearances in the 24 Hours (and 63 victories in 80 races!), in favour of the new R10 with a diesel engine. 

The advantage of diesel is the reduction in consumption. There is the benefit of refuelling less in a 24-hour endurance race, however, the choice of a proven model for the Pescarolos can allow the French to believe that they have a chance. The two Audi R10 TDI (turbo direct injection system) set off from the front row as they had the two best testing times.

The Audi no. 7 took the lead in a very lively race within the first few hours. There was a dramatic change when a mechanical problem forced him to stall for a while during a pit stop on the 45th lap. The car fell down the standings and the German manufacturer's hopes of victory rested exclusively on Marco Werner, Emanuele Pirro and Franck Biela.

The second Audi could not be caught despite the efforts of the drivers of Pescarolo no. 17. The German giant will go down in history as the first manufacturer to win with diesel technology at Le Mans. This technological challenge required 30,000 km of testing, 1,500 hours on the engine bench, three years of calculations and involved 150 people. The Ingolstadt firm is more present than ever and its determination to win at Le Mans remains intact!

The Automobile Club de l'Ouest celebrated its centenary in 2006. An extensive entertainment program celebrates this August anniversary as it should do.