The Dallara IR-05 was the backbone of IndyCar racing for much of the late 2000s. With its balance of power, aerodynamics, and durability, it delivered thrilling races across a variety of track types. In iRacing, the IR-05 is a versatile car that offers drivers a taste of both oval and road course competition.
Technical Specifications
| Horsepower | ~650 hp |
| Engine | 3.5L naturally aspirated V8 |
| Weight | ~700 kg |
| Gearbox | 6-speed sequential |
| Top Speed | 220+ mph on superspeedways |
Handling Characteristics
- Aerodynamics: Strong balance of downforce and drag reduction; requires setup changes between oval and road courses.
- Cornering: Agile in medium and high-speed turns, but heavy fuel loads can induce understeer.
- Braking: Capable, but less powerful than modern carbon systems; braking zones are longer than in the IR-18.
- Power Delivery: Smooth, responsive torque curve with plenty of acceleration out of slow corners.
Difficulty Level
The IR-05 is considered an intermediate car. It is more forgiving than the IR-18 but faster and more demanding than entry-level open-wheel cars. Drivers will need to adapt quickly to its dual nature of oval and road course setups.
Real-World Tie-In
The IR-05 was introduced in the 2005 IndyCar Series and remained in use through the 2011 season. It was driven by some of the era’s biggest stars, including Scott Dixon, Dario Franchitti, and Dan Wheldon. Its versatility and longevity made it a staple of American open-wheel racing during its prime.
In iRacing, the IR-05 offers both nostalgia and challenge, providing a rewarding experience for anyone looking to relive a crucial chapter of IndyCar history.
