Tripmeter
A precise, retrofittable distance recorder on the co-driver's side, considerably more accurate than the built-in odometer. Also called a tripmaster in the Anglo-American world.
The tripmeter is a precise instrument that measures the distance travelled more accurately than the standard odometer. It is the navigator's key tool for matching the distance figures in the roadbook with the distance actually driven. High-end rally trip computers also calculate average speeds and target-versus-actual deviations in real time. Deviations can arise from tyre pressure, tyre size or driving style, which is why the tripmeter should be calibrated before every rally.
Glossary from A to Z
Related terms
Pre-war vehicle
Vehicle from the era before the Second World War, usually up to the 1939 model year. The term is not officially defined; the cut-off varies by source.
Odometer
A vehicle's built-in odometer and the simplest form of distance recorder. Usually too imprecise for rally navigation – the more accurate tripmeter is used for that.
Special
A deliberately and skilfully built one-off, usually created for sporting purposes from period components – the kinder sibling of the bitsa, especially in the pre-war world.