JP66

So this is WAY ahead of where I should be in terms of discussion as I have yet to learn the basics, and I know it has previously been discussed, but I'm just curious for those that have considered or better yet partaken in both how do you compare Spec Miata racing versus Spec Box racing. On the surface it seems they are really similar, but Spec Miata is a fraction of the cost. I get that the Miata is way under powered in comparison, but when you race isn't it about challenging your skills and not "tweaking the car". As a newbie I want to set a goal, and I thought that goal was Spec Box racing, but now I'm beginning to wonder . . .

So what say you oh great and wise internet

Circuit Motorsports

Similar in ideas but I have yet to see a spec boxster race remotely as intense as a good sm race.

At the front spec Miata isn't much cheaper than a boxster.

Gary R.

Well, the big difference is that Spec Miata guys that run up front all cheat, and Spec Box guys that run up front all cheat.. wait, that isn't different is it.

mmuller

Says who?

Gary R.

It was a joke, but if I wasn't too tired to play I could get this to go for at least a few pages...

Frank 993 C4S

It's a matter of budget. You can get a Spec Miata for under $10k and front rotors are like $20. A good SpecB is a minimum of $35k. The racing is very competitive in both, especially up front.

CCA

An SM for under $10k is not going to be a front runner. But with the large car count they field, you're still likely to have someone to race with. Turn-key, pro built, front running SMs are sometimes touching the low $40s.

JP66

I hope everyone believes me when I say I don't have a cheating bone in my body plus I'm years away from even thinking about buying a spec car, but I'm curious what sorts of things can guys do to cheat? Suspension, ECU software, what? It's kinda hard to hide a turbo or a super charger so I assume those are out?

Circuit Motorsports

60's not 40's for one with all the bells and whistles like data, cool suit, etc.

mglobe

You can buy mine for $40k if you want. Pro motor, aim system, cool suit, ... For that price I will deliver it anywhere in the country.

You can buy a SM capable of running at the very front of the nasa nationals for ~$20k. I bought one about a year ago. A friend got one about two years ago. I'm sure you could find a way to spend $40k if you try. I'm sure you could also spend $100k on a SPB if you really want to.

SM is highly competitive. Fields in Texas are regularly 40+ cars. A race with only 20 cars is an anomaly, and usually because of when or where it is being run.

Typically the top 10-20 cars quali within 1sec of the pole. Racing is typically nose to tail all the way to the back of the pack. You almost always have someone to race hard the entire time, even if you are running for 30th place.

CCA

Never heard anyone float a number that high with any seriousness. I know the engine builder for one of the better cars out there, whose driver routinely challenges for wins at the Majors. I was told 42, and that includes the bells, whistles and a rather flashy paint job. Still... a number I can't afford.

Nizer

With apologies to Spec Miata guys, if you're small, like hot confined spaces, and hideously loud and nasty noise go with Spec Miata. If not, go Spec Boxster.

HoBoJoe

JP I've considered the same two paths ever since my first DE. My personal goal has been to get into club/spec racing in the next 5-10 years and I'll most likely end up in Spec Boxster or whatever the most popular spec class in PCA is at that time. The reason? I've owned a Porsche since I was 19 and my friend/mentor/mechanic builds and races spec box.

stownsen914

I believe SM runs mostly with SCCA? I know of SB running mostly with PCA Club Racing. Very different racing organizations. SCCA is more liberal about bumping and accidents in general than PCA. Possibly something to consider. I've heard SM referred to as "Spec Piñata" which says something ...

mhm993

All true, but that's half the enjoyment. You feel like Jeff Gordon the first time you get in an SM.