DOWN TO THE WIRE!
In race two, Giovanardi held on to win ahead of his arch rival, meaning the series' top two drivers went into the final round separated by just one point. Once again, it was edge-of-the-seat viewing for the packed grandstands and spectator banks.
Whoever finished ahead in race three would be crowned Drivers' Champion. Giovanardi's superb start from seventh on the grid gave him the edge - and after yet another action-packed tussle, the Italian's second place finish was enough to snatch the title by a mere three points - and celebrations were twice as sweet as Vauxhall regained the Manufacturers' crown from SEAT.
'This is incredible', the Italian said. 'It has been an amazing fight all year and Jason had always kept ahead until the very last race. I've won touring car titles before but this is the toughest. Even on the last lap I knew Jason was close... He's been a great rival and what he did with the injuries he suffered in the week was really brave - a real fighting spirit.
I'm so pleased we had this battle. The result is also very special for Vauxhall and the Vectra. It's just been the perfect year'.
With former BTCC champion Matt Neal confirmed as Giovanardi's team mate for 2008, winter testing starts in November. And VXR aims to wrap up those titles a good deal earlier next year - 2007 was just too nerve-wracking for all concerned.
Keep up-to-date with all the news from the VX Racing Team: visit www.vxr.co.uk
KISSING COUSINS
Behind every race car is a great road car. Its dramatic styling, great driving dynamics and generous levels of standard equipment combine to set high standards of comfort and control. But how close are the links between the BTCC-winning Vectra and its road-going cousin?
The 2007 regulations mean many production parts must be used in the race car - one of Vectra's big advantages is its multi-link rear suspension, which offers adaptable control of many areas critical in achieving a competitive and well-balanced race car.
On the road, Vectra's wide track and long wheelbase underpin great ride comfort - on track they form a stable platform for sharp high-speed handling.
And while some tracks suit cars which corner well or ride the kerbs with ease, others suit a car that puts the power down well and shows aerodynamic superiority in straight line speed. The best do both.
With VX Racing's expertise, the Vectra is quick on the straights, and quick through the corners - a perfect mix. For the racing Vectra, this is just the beginning. But all of it is rooted in the Vectra road car.
For more information on the Vectra range, go to www.vauxhall.co.uk/vectra or call 0845 600 1500.