Route 66 Victory Powered by G-XRace

Four-time NHRA Competition Eliminator world champion Bruno Massel added another major milestone to his career at the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK. Driving his turbocharged CC/AT Chevy Cobalt, Massel secured the win at his home event with a 6.979-second pass at 197.08 mph, overcoming a near-perfect .000 reaction time from his opponent in the final round.

The victory marked the 20th NHRA national event win of Massel’s career and earned him a special 75th Anniversary “Diamond Wally” trophy, awarded during NHRA’s milestone season.

The Car and Championship-Proven Combination

Massel’s Cobalt is powered by a 3.0L 2JZ engine paired with Garrett turbocharging technology. His program represents one of the most advanced and proven turbocharged combinations in NHRA Competition Eliminator, a category dominated by highly optimized naturally aspirated setups.

With four NHRA World Championships and six divisional titles, Massel’s combination has consistently demonstrated the ability to perform at the highest level under strict class regulations.

From Dyno Validation to Race Day Performance

The Route 66 victory followed extensive dyno testing of the Garrett G-XRace GXR47-80 turbocharger. During testing, the setup produced:

• 1,512 rear wheel horsepower
• 55 psi of boost
• Approximately 10% converter slip

Compared to his previous twin Garrett G47 setup, the GXR47-80 delivered approximately 150 additional rear wheel horsepower, with more performance still available.

Efficiency That Translates to Wins

Additional test data showed a near 1:1 relationship:

• 54 psi backpressure
• 55 psi boost

This balance is critical in drag racing, helping reduce heat and maximize the power generated from each pound of boost.

Spool, Power, and Real-World Advantage

In NHRA Competition Eliminator, spool time is critical, especially since nitrous is not allowed to assist turbocharger response.

With the GXR47-80:

• Boost ramps in faster
• The car accelerates earlier in the run
• Stronger pull through the back half

Massel also recorded 58 psi of boost during the final round at Route 66, showing additional headroom beyond dyno testing.

Built for Restricted Racing Conditions

NHRA rules heavily restrict engine configuration, making turbocharger efficiency essential. The GXR47-80 allows Massel to stay within a safer operating range while still delivering race-winning performance.

Consistency and Championship-Level Reliability

Consistency remains one of the biggest challenges for turbocharged cars in Competition Eliminator. Massel’s results prove that his combination can deliver repeatable performance at the highest level.

• 4 NHRA World Championships
• 6 NHRA Divisional Championships
• Only turbocharged car to win a season-long title in the category

The addition of the GXR platform further strengthens that consistency, helping balance power, efficiency, and reliability across a full racing season.

Key Takeaways

• Proven race-winning performance at NHRA national level
• Significant horsepower gains over previous turbo setup
• Improved spool and earlier acceleration
• Strong turbine efficiency with near 1:1 pressure ratio
• Greater headroom and safer operating range

Conclusion

The Garrett G-XRace GXR47-80 has proven its capability both on the dyno and at the track. From producing over 1,500 rear wheel horsepower to delivering a national event victory, the platform demonstrates measurable improvements in spool, efficiency, and overall performance.

For Bruno Massel, the result is clear: a turbocharger that not only delivers peak power but also provides the consistency and confidence needed to win in one of NHRA’s most competitive categories.

Disclaimer

Testing results shown were achieved using the Garrett GXR47-80 configuration. Performance will vary depending on engine setup, class rules, fuel type, calibration strategy, and vehicle configuration.

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