The Door Panels range covers lightweight, durable inner door cards for track, drift and rally builds. You’ll find both universal and model-specific parts (e.g. BMW E36, BMW E46, BMW E30) designed for straightforward riveted or bolted installation. Choose aluminium, plastic or composite panels to reduce weight, tidy the cabin and simplify maintenance in demanding motorsport use.
Net price: 75 €
Brief summary & key benefits
Door panels in motorsport are practical interior covers designed to be light, rigid and easy to service. The key benefits are weight reduction, tidy cable/rod management and fast removal/refit during maintenance. Model-specific kits match factory door frames while universal sheets can be trimmed and drilled to fit. Typical materials include aluminium (often bead-rolled), impact-resistant plastics (ABS/PE) and fibre-reinforced composites.
Technical Basics
Materials: 1–2 mm aluminium offers an excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio; bead rolling adds rigidity and reduces drumming. Plastics such as ABS/PE are flexible, corrosion-free and moisture resistant; composites deliver the lowest mass but need precise fitment.
Mounting: the common methods are blind (pop) rivets and M4–M6 bolts with large washers. Threaded inserts (rivnuts) in the door shell allow quick removal. Edge trim or U-channel helps minimise vibration and prevents sharp edges. Service flaps, handle and cable pass-throughs can be pre-cut or marked for later machining.
Compatibility: model-specific sets match platforms like BMW E36, E46 and E30, accounting for handle location, window mechanism and side-impact bars. Keeping power windows requires dedicated cut-outs and secure loom routing; fully stripped doors often use pull straps instead.
Typical pitfalls: sparse fastener spacing (panel rattles), un-deburred sharp edges (tear risk), missing drainage and interference with latch/lock operation. Always consider clearance for the safety window net if fitted.
Selection Criteria
Size & shape: map the inner door skeleton, mark fastener lines and any openings (handle, window switch, mirror wiring). If you need rapid service in the pits, prefer threaded inserts for quick removal. In drifting, a padded or contoured driver-side panel protects the elbow area.
Material choice: aluminium balances durability and formability; ABS is quiet and cost-effective; composites are the lightest. Consider temperature and UV exposure: ABS may warp when overheated, while coated or wrapped aluminium stays stable.
Weight & rigidity: a pair of aluminium cards typically weighs 1.5–3.0 kg; reinforce mounting points to avoid elongating holes under vibration. Match finish to your use case: anodised, powder-coated or wrapped. Matte black reduces glare; bead-rolled patterns look great yet remain functional.
Regulatory note: road legality may be affected by airbags and side-impact protection; these products are intended for competition. Check your series rulebook and scrutineering requirements before purchase.
Installation & Maintenance
Preparation: clean and degrease the door shell; create a cardboard template if using a universal sheet. Confirm clearance with the door closed and seat in driving position.
Drilling & fastening: use 120–180 mm spacing for rivets to keep panels quiet; with rivnuts, M5–M6 hardware and large washers work well. Add thin foam tape or rubber under the flange to dampen vibration. Ensure the panel doesn’t contact the body when the door opens fully.
Cut-outs: form openings for handles, window mechanisms and latch rods gradually using a step drill and jigsaw; deburr and protect edges with U-trim. Secure cables with p-clips and ties to prevent chafing.
Maintenance: periodically check rivets/bolts for tightness, inspect for cracks and edge wear. Clean with mild agents; dry aluminium after heavy rain to avoid moisture retention inside the door. Replace damaged panels promptly.
Warning: poorly positioned cut-outs can obstruct the harness or latch operation. Always test egress and window function before finalising.
FAQ
Universal vs model-specific—what should I choose?
Model-specific kits install faster and cleaner; universal sheets are cheaper and highly customisable.
Best fastening method?
Pop rivets are light and durable; threaded inserts with bolts are ideal if panels are removed frequently.
Can I keep power windows?
Yes—plan cut-outs for switches and mechanisms, and secure wiring to stop rattles.
How much weight can I save?
Several kilograms versus stock trim, depending on material and design.
Street use?
Not recommended; these are competition parts and may not comply with road regulations.
