Revitalising a CAT N Subaru BRZ: eBay Partners with Mission Motorsport for Remarkable Road-to-Race Transformation
eBay has joined forces with Mission Motorsport, The Forces motorsport charity, to restore a CAT N 2016 Subaru BRZ. The team is using only eBay’s Assured Fit, Certified Recycled Parts, and My Garage services for the rebuild, demonstrating the extensive and cost-effective options available on the online marketplace.
Mission Motorsport offers career opportunities in the automotive industry to those impacted by military operations. Ex-services personnel entirely manage the rehabilitation of the BRZ.
Upon completion, the Subaru BRZ will be transformed into an MSUK-spec race car. It will compete in the upcoming Race of Remembrance at Anglesey this November, marking the event’s 10th anniversary. Almost the entire team, from drivers to pit crew, consists of individuals either wheelchair-bound or with significant lower limb injuries.
Mark White, Operations Manager at Mission Motorsport, commented, "After purchasing our Subaru on eBay, we were aware it had front and rear damage. However, it was only upon receiving the BRZ that the full extent of our challenge became clear. We've sourced everything from light clusters to body panels and even a new seat through eBay, showcasing the vast selection available to motorists."
A CAT N vehicle has sustained non-structural damage from an accident and is the least severe of the four categories (A, B, S, and N).
Data obtained by eBay reveals that 186,423 vehicles were classified as CAT N in 2023. Despite these figures, eBay’s research indicates over 80% of UK motorists are unaware of what CAT N classification entails. Once educated, a quarter would consider purchasing a CAT N vehicle if substantial savings were involved.
According to Laura Richards, eBay’s Category Lead for car parts and accessories, "Many consumers are unfamiliar with insurance write-off categories. Finding parts for repairs can be straightforward using eBay’s My Garage function. Our Certified Recycled programme also offers top-quality reclaimed parts at more affordable prices."
Vehicles classified as CAT N are often sold at reduced prices post-repair and are considered safe. Motorists purchasing a CAT N vehicle can find the right parts through eBay’s Assured Fit, which matches parts to vehicles via registration data. The Certified Recycled programme allows shoppers to buy OEM-quality parts from end-of-life vehicles, aiding in cost-saving and extending product lifecycles.
The most common CAT N write-offs in 2023 included mainstream models and British classics, with notable vehicles like the Ferrari California and Porsche 911 Targa also listed. eBay’s extensive range includes direct purchases from OEMs through official stores for modern and classic cars.
eBay’s comparison between Certified Recycled Parts and new parts showed significant savings, exemplifying the benefits of choosing recycled parts.
