The engines were originally 2 L naturally aspirated, and later 1.6 L turbocharged units were allowed producing approximately 280 bhp.
The goal of the Super 2000 classification is to allow more manufacturers and privateers to race by reducing the cost of a competitive car.
In order to cut costs and shorten development time, the Super 2000 rally cars originally used a common control gearbox and drivetrain made by the French company, Sadev.
These new rules allowed Ford to build from scratch their S2000 Fiesta vehicles in Australia, in as little as 14 weeks, starting out with a Super 1600 chassis and rollcage.
For the engine this included a larger air intake restrictor allowing power outputs of 380 bhp and more.