New Race Car
02-12-2010 | 12:50 PM
#46
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Rennlist Member
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Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 3,991
Likes: 84
From: Royal Oak, MI
Hmmm... not sure I'd agree with that. While a SM would defintiely have a handling advantage over a Spec-944, an IT-level of prep would level the playing field.
But, to continue to fuel the fires - the SM will definitely give access to a decidedly higher level of competition.
I would definitely not suggest that my DSR will be at quite the same prep level as the pro-built SM... it'll be close, but as was also pointed out, there'll be substantial labor costs not accounted for, not to mention sponsor involvement in the build. Trying to do it "over the counter" would easily add 10k or more to the tab. Buying a new front-runner DSR (Stohr or West), equivalent to the SM in build level, would be about $75k.
Just wanted to put out a comparitive point, what can be achieved with similar budget. But of course, the OP's goal is far better met with the SM.
But, to continue to fuel the fires - the SM will definitely give access to a decidedly higher level of competition.
I would definitely not suggest that my DSR will be at quite the same prep level as the pro-built SM... it'll be close, but as was also pointed out, there'll be substantial labor costs not accounted for, not to mention sponsor involvement in the build. Trying to do it "over the counter" would easily add 10k or more to the tab. Buying a new front-runner DSR (Stohr or West), equivalent to the SM in build level, would be about $75k.
Just wanted to put out a comparitive point, what can be achieved with similar budget. But of course, the OP's goal is far better met with the SM.
02-12-2010 | 01:38 PM
#47
Pro
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 622
Likes: 3
From: Calgary, AB
I don't see anyone arguing that the original poster overspent, or that he could have bought a fresh build of the same caliber for much less. My only point is that you don't need to spend that much to run front-of-pack at regionals or even nationals, despite what others implied. That really isn't any kind of statement on the original poster's purchase. As he pointed out, his extra money bought him peace of mind that he's not losing because of his car.
02-12-2010 | 02:03 PM
#48
Three Wheelin'
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,847
Likes: 5
From: T.C. Michigan
I would have done the same thing. Running spec Miata at the National level, which is what you are, in effect doing is relatively cheap. I have been watching/reading this thread carefully because it mirrors my own aspirations and thoughts racing in general and of Koni/Continental and continuing to develop as a driver. I ask again that you share your experiences with us on Rennlist and Godspeed!
02-13-2010 | 03:45 PM
#51
Thread Starter
Former Vendor
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 3,670
Likes: 5
From: Jacksonville, FL
We spoke when you were selling the 996, glad you got into a good SM. Ignore the people that tell you otherwise about SM, they just havn't driven a good Spec Miata and seen the light. Miatas are wonderful race cars and great learning tools if all else. No one is saying you can't come back to a Porsche race car someday, although those 50 car Miata fields with close competition sure are a lot more fun than racing with 3 to 6 guys with varying talent and cars.
Good luck, have fun racing it, and keep us informed of your progress.
BTW - Texas isn't too far and Drago comes here on occasion so I'm sure he could trailer your car and you could do an arrive and drive. Let me know if you come out this way.
Good luck, have fun racing it, and keep us informed of your progress.
BTW - Texas isn't too far and Drago comes here on occasion so I'm sure he could trailer your car and you could do an arrive and drive. Let me know if you come out this way.
Roger, congrats on the new ride!
I think the problem is that most people have not experienced the level of build that went into your car so they are confused about the build costs. Being the lucky owner of your old ride I know exactly what your new car looks like even though I have never seen it. Besides all the go fast parts, trick engineering, luxury items like data and video, the car will also be the best looking car on the grid. A $20K SM may be fast but it will not look, smell, and feel like it just left the showroom floor.
I think you got a very fair deal. My offer still stands to put you up at the Villa when you are ready to come run in TX.
I think the problem is that most people have not experienced the level of build that went into your car so they are confused about the build costs. Being the lucky owner of your old ride I know exactly what your new car looks like even though I have never seen it. Besides all the go fast parts, trick engineering, luxury items like data and video, the car will also be the best looking car on the grid. A $20K SM may be fast but it will not look, smell, and feel like it just left the showroom floor.
I think you got a very fair deal. My offer still stands to put you up at the Villa when you are ready to come run in TX.
I would have done the same thing. Running spec Miata at the National level, which is what you are, in effect doing is relatively cheap. I have been watching/reading this thread carefully because it mirrors my own aspirations and thoughts racing in general and of Koni/Continental and continuing to develop as a driver. I ask again that you share your experiences with us on Rennlist and Godspeed!
Thanks Keith! Hope to see you out there at some NASA events.
Ready for some enduros?
