What is the RIGHT gearbox for your discipline?

How to Choose the Right Sequential Gearbox for Your Race Discipline

Whether you're racing uphill, launching down a quarter mile, or attacking a tight autocross course, your gearbox isn’t just a part — it’s a core performance asset. Choosing the wrong one can result in missed shifts, drivetrain damage, or worse — a failed race day.

At Kotouč Gearboxes, we specialize in application-specific racing gearboxes. This guide will help you find the right gearbox based on your discipline, build goals, and performance requirements — using the same logic we apply in real-world race teams across 100+ countries.

What to Consider When Choosing a Race Gearbox

Before diving into gearbox models, it’s important to consider the core demands of your race setup. Here’s what matters most:

• Torque and horsepower range
• Number of gears required (5, 6, or 7-speed)
• Sequential vs seamless shifting requirements
• Vehicle weight and drivetrain layout
• Motorsport-specific regulations
• Clutch compatibility and sensor support

Drag Racing: Instant Power Delivery

Drag racers need lightning-fast shifts and uninterrupted torque. For turbocharged or high-horsepower cars (up to 1,500 HP), SEAMLESS 0A6 Sequential Gearbox offers a massive competitive edge. There’s no throttle lift and no turbo lag — just continuous acceleration through each gear.

Recommended options:

• SEAMLESS 1014-7M Universal Transverse Sequential Gearbox – Universal 7-speed sequential
• SEAMLESS 0A6 Sequential Gearbox – VW/Audi/Škoda/KTM replacement, 7-speed sequential

Hillclimb & Time Attack: Lightweight and Responsive

Hillclimb and time attack racers demand light weight, fast upshifts, and durability over short distances. These events often involve elevation changes, technical sections, and aggressive downshifting.

Recommended options:

• MS6-9 Sequential Gearbox Kit – Lightweight 6-speed kit for Mitsubishi Evo 6-9
• 02M/02Q/0A8 Sequential Gearbox – Versatile option for various Volkswagen gearboxes

Rally & Rallycross: Built to Survive Rough Conditions

Rally cars face rough terrain, unpredictable grip, and constant gear changes. The gearbox must absorb heavy shocks and handle rapid transitions without fail. A strong casing and wide-ratio gearing are essential.

Recommended options:

• Subaru STI R4 PLUS – 6-speed rally-homologated sequential gearbox
• Lancia LDI7 Sequential Gearbox – 7-speed Delta Integrale sequential box

Circuit Racing: Balanced for Speed and Endurance

For track cars, you need smooth power delivery, precise gearing, and long-term thermal durability. Whether you're running sprint races or endurance events, gearboxes like the 1014-7M and 1004-6T provide the flexibility needed to stay competitive across different track layouts.

• 1014-7M Universal Transverse Sequential Gearbox – 7-speed, 2WD/AWD versatile setup
• TY7-GR Toyota Yaris/Corolla Sequential Gearbox – 7-speed tailored for Toyota platforms

Still Not Sure? We’ll Help You Decide

We understand motorsport setups can vary widely. That’s why we offer a direct consultation to match your build to the ideal gearbox. From installation tips to final tuning, our team is here to guide you.

Contact us here to start the conversation.