In relation to international motorsport governed by the FIA, Group N refers to regulations providing "standard" large-scale series production vehicles for competition. They are limited in terms of modifications permitted to the standard specification by the manufacturer making them a cost effective method of production vehicle motorsport. Often referred to as the "showroom class", Group N contrasts with Group A which has greater freedom to modify and tune the cars to be more suitable to racing. Both groups may have the same or similar models homologated by a manufacturer.
Group N Subaru Impreza STi
Group N Ford Escort Cosworth
Renault 5 GT Turbo, Group N world championship winner in 1989 and 1990
A Subaru Impreza WRX STI at the 2006 Acropolis Rally
Group A is a set of motorsport regulations administered by the FIA covering production derived touring cars for competition, usually in touring car racing and rallying. In contrast to the short-lived Group B and Group C, Group A vehicles were limited in terms of power, weight, allowed technology and overall cost. Group A was aimed at ensuring numerous entries in races of privately owned vehicles.
Lancia Delta HF integrale Group A
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI, Tommi Mäkinen edition, a Group A rally car
Ford Sierra RS500 Group A touring car
A BMW M3 (E30) Group A DTM touring car