Why do rally cars mostly sound the same?

Rally cars have an iconic sound that has become synonymous with the sport, but why do they all sound so similar? It turns out that rally cars must adhere to strict regulations imposed by the FIA (Federation Internationale de l'Automobile) in order to be eligible to compete in sanctioned events. These rules require that all cars have similar engine displacement, exhaust systems, and fuel injection systems, which limits the potential sound of the vehicles. Additionally, rally cars are limited to a particular octave range, which further homogenizes the sound of each car. This makes it easier for spectators to identify when a car is approaching, and also helps to maintain a consistent level of excitement throughout the race.

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