The Elite ZF S5-18/3 is a 5-speed competition gearbox developed for historic motorsport applications, combining the classic ZF configuration with modern manufacturing, materials and gear technology.
With a 300 ft/lbs torque capacity, the ZF S5-18/3 is available with either synchromesh or dog engagement, making it particularly well suited to historic rally, circuit racing and classic competition vehicles where period-correct specification and homologation are important.
All components, with the exception of the gearing, are interchangeable with original ZF S5-18/3 gearboxes, making the Elite unit an excellent option for both new builds and replacement or upgrade applications.
Historic Motorsport Applications
The ZF S5-18/3 has a long history in European competition cars and remains a popular transmission for historic motorsport.
Elite can supply the gearbox with input shaft configurations suitable for applications including:
- Ford Escort
- Ford Capri
- Opel
- BMW
- Sunbeam
- Other suitable historic competition applications
Both synchromesh and dog engagement configurations are available depending on class regulations, vehicle specification and driver preference.
High-Quality Motorsport Construction
Elite gears are manufactured for competition use and are REM Superfinished as standard.
This finishing process helps reduce friction, improve gear surface quality and increase durability under demanding motorsport conditions.
Technical Specifications
- Transmission: 5-speed H-pattern gearbox
- Engagement: Synchromesh or dog engagement
- Torque Capacity: 300 ft/lbs
- Weight: 33 kg
- Oil Capacity: 1.6 litres
- Gear Finish: REM Superfinished
- Homologation: Suitable for historic motorsport applications
What’s Included
Depending on the vehicle application, the ZF S5-18/3 can be supplied with:
- Escort, Capri, Opel, BMW or Sunbeam input shaft
- Gearstick
- Complete selected gearset
- Application-specific configuration
Ratio Selection
A range of gear ratios is available, allowing the transmission to be configured around the engine characteristics, final drive, tyre size and intended competition use.
InGear Performance can work with you to select the appropriate ratios and gearbox configuration for your historic race or rally application.
This is particularly important with period competition vehicles, where maintaining the correct engine RPM between gears can make a significant difference to overall performance.
Talk to InGear Performance
Whether you are restoring an original ZF-equipped competition car, building a historic rally car or upgrading an existing classic race car, InGear Performance can help specify the correct Elite ZF S5-18/3 package.
Contact us to discuss your vehicle, engine, competition class and intended use, and we’ll help configure the transmission to suit.