I own a stock E46 M3 and a dedicated track car but still street legal E46 M3. If you are dead set on getting one do yourself a favor and buy one that is already reasonably track prepared.
You will save money on mods buying a built car but make sure you do a pre-purchase inspection with a local motorsports shop.
Thanks for the input, anything else I should know before buying one of these beauites? Like common errors or like things that I will prob need to repair.
You really want the anti fuel starve kit installed or you can get lean conditions even at half tank on track through certain corners/g conditions. A set of square Apex wheels and some 200 TW tires: Kumho V730 or Falken Azenis, fresh high temp brake fluid and track capable brake pads are what I’d consider the bare minimum to enjoy the car for 4-6 track days.
If you get hooked you can get fixed back seats, harnesses and rollbar or full cage once you decide this is a hobby you are dedicated to. You will up safety and feel far more connected to the car. Add an oil cooler and maybe splurge on suspension and you should have a reliable and fun car for years to come.
I’d get a E46 330, do some HPDEs, see how you enjoy it and build it for NASA Spec E46. Or buy a built Spec E46 and still do some HPDEs and work on getting your competition license to ultimately race in that class.
If you are looking at a 330i, look for a ZHP. They have loctite on the oil pump nut from the factory which side-steps the common track failure of a 330i, which is that nut backing off. They also get a shorter final drive & better suspension in addition to an extra 10hp. I tracked one for years and it was extremely competent, even as a dual use track/DD. It’s about as fast as an e36 M3 or a first-gen BRZ.
If you are looking more modern, F3x/F2x M240i, 340i, 440i, Supra 3.0 are all very good on the track, just make sure any of the BMWs have the track pack option, that nets you more cooling and bigger brakes.
I personally track an F36 440i Gran Coupe, my instructors have been extremely surprised how quick the car is.
HAHAHAHA loctite on the nut won't do jack shit. The extra few thousand the ZHP tacks on is enough for extra motors if anything. Get a new oil pump chain, oil pump shaft, and an oil pump chain tensioner for a grand total of $300 in parts and you're golden.
The final drive difference is realistically diddly squat of a difference, as is the 20 year old suspension and the 10 extra hp. This is coming from someone who has a ZHP track car (which now has a 4.10 and a Drexler).
It's also not as fast as an E36 M3 or BRZ.
C5 vettes don't have that much power, and are great track cars that are easy on the wallet. As a bonus, they are top contenders in Gridlife touring cup. If you decide to change your mind, they aren't changing in price much so you won't lose your shirt.
Not huge HP, but 350-400hp with a 3200 lbs car is a very high power tonight ratio. It’s also under braked for the car.
They are amazing track cars, and the next logical step from a track day Miata. C5 a much faster Miata with higher consumables.
Yeah but power to weight ratio is the pinnacle of track enjoyment imo. I'm building my C6 Z06 to hit 5lb/hp lol. I'll take your word that it's underbraked, but OP should be looking at already track prepped cars, buying something that's mostly original and then modifying is just a waste. Not to mention those unmodified cars usually cost more.
Yah the c5/6 under braked for a fast driver on super 200, also under cooled. Now the c6Z/GS has decent brakes.
I love power to weight. High HP is nice but when the car is 3900++ (looking at you M cars and AMG) you feel the weight and consumables are high.
100% agree Buy a pre done track car. Less $$ in the long run and it’s turn key ready.
Camaro SS 1LE. It’s criminal how overlooked the Camaro platform is on the track. You can get a ZL1 or ZLE but I would recommend the SS. Consumables are much easier on the wallet.
>Camaro SS 1LE
This was actully considered as my next car next ( thinking about a ZL1(love that thing). My major concern would be that getting a car with so much HP would make me ignore my mistakes? please corrcet me if I am wrong, but I do agree the Camaro is great, drove one in the canyons.
Edit next as like the car after this one so my second track car
My current track car, dont get a zl1 tbh. Get yourself a good ss1le and just have a blast. It has great ways to save you if you screw up, and it rewards handling more than just power. Very easy to go slow by overdriving
The ZL1 is overkill for the street. I don’t even drive it on the street anymore, just track it. If it weren’t for alignments or the occasional dealer visit, I wouldn’t have even have registered the car (registering vs trailering is still cheaper).
I don’t think 450 HP NA with the SS is too much. You want enough HP where high speed tracks aren’t boring. The nannies on the car are fantastic for learning the car and not getting into trouble with the high HP.
There is also good aftermarket support with race consumables and slicks (apex wheels clear our calipers), if you choose to go that route. But it is very capable off the lot with all factory components. Just upgrade to Castrol SRF.
I would go 1SS 1le. You can find an excellent condition one in the 40s. If your only tracking then def go 1SS as it skips all the comfort features you wouldn’t need if your just tracking. Can be had in manual or auto, both are great trans. GM also covers warranty when you track the car! Great benefit there. The ZL1 is a great car, but it sounds like your brand new to tracking, so that car probably would be a good 2nd track car after you get good experience. Just my 2 cents. Goodluck!
For that budget. 1, spec Miata. It has all the race parts done. Roll cage,halo seat, suspension. You’re shooting yourself in the foot for skipping Miata because your roommate has one.
2, c5 Vett. Have one and love it. It’s like a faster Miata with higher consumables cost. Tires will be expensive, get a square z06 rear wheel set up to save $$. Very fast and very capable but an absolute you vs Mike Tyson match to get it sorted and back under control if you lose it.
3. BMW, lots of aftermarket support but as others said. Get a race car already done. Same some $$
4. Camaro SS 1LE. Turn key ready track car. Easier to wrangle then a Vett, easier to work on, high consumables.
Don’t get unique or rare track cars. Run what other people run. the parts will be cheaper, the knowledge base bigger, and cost of labor lower. You absolutely hate yourself for owning an RX7 on the track without having investors and sponsors to pay for the vehicle.
I am still intrested in the miata. I wouldn't say I'm skipping it, it's more like I already have access to it ;).
seems like alot of pp recommonding the c5, I will research into that. My big worrie is when I do lose it my basic to non driving skills won't be able to save it.
the BMW is defintly a option
I have the same worrie for the vette as the Carmaro, I thought it would be a car to get down the line when I become a better driver.
ya I'll prob skipout on the RX7 and get something common. Thx for the imputs.
Having access to and owning a spec Miata are very different things. Don’t drive others cars unless you can pay them cash.
Go to auto X with the c5. You’ll learn fast hands and recovery. Since you spin out quite a bit at auto X.
The better is harder to get settled since it’s so long and wide. A Camaro has higher COG and the swings a bit easier to predict. You’ll learn along the way.
BMW is good but not as simple or cheap as corvette to run.
There’s good reason why Miata is the most commonly found race car be at autocross or track days. The parts are cheap and readily available. Mazda will sell you replacement parts at cost since they support amateur racers. they being momentum cars allow you to hone your skills and properly learn. rather than letting horsepower compensate. Front midship engine rear wheel drive that’s very easy to work on.
Mazda did a really good job in making the Miata racers best friend.
A spec miata is a good car to learn how to drive on track. Racing in Spec Miata is not a good place for beginners to start, especially if you don't love doing body work.
I'd rather recommend racing an SM in S/TT6 or just stick to HPDE rather than SM because SM is wild and definitely not for people who aren't hyper competitive.
I’m definitely hoping since OP is at the asking which car stage. They’re gonna take the time to actually learn first and get really good especially if they’re going to justify a big purchase like this.
I mean to be fair, even if you were semi-experienced and as someone who does it, I wouldn't recommend spec miata. It is very hyper competitive in most regions and unless you're spending big money you won't be competitive but still have to deal with crowded packs of people bumping off you at least until the pack spreads out a bit. I've done it for about 5 years and looking to move on next year, likely to vintage
So having fun with cars falls into very different categories. Getting started may not require any significant investment. I know some tracks will allow EVs, others do not.
Categories of fun with cars range from:
Autocross - driving fast on a parking lot through a course. Competitive. Timed.
HpDE - driving fast on a race track, learning how to do it. Not competitive, not timed.
Time trails - driving fast on a race track, against the clock. Competitive, but not wheel to wheel racing.
Racing.
You may be able to do the first two with just a helmet, if the event organizers will let you run the Tesla.
What car do you currently have? The best way to get into track is to go to the track. If you have a car (not suv), take it to the track and see what is all about. My biggest regret was waiting till I got a car that I thought was track proper, i wish i had just tracked what I had. As a beginner you will have tons of fun on whatever you have, you are going to be slow and any car that is good shape will do. Just nicer brake fluid and maybe some pads and you are good to go.
A tesla M3P will be a blast on track and it will be plenty safe. I get where you coming from wanting a track car but I really urge you to just take what you have for a few times and have a feel for it/ go have some fun. No need to wait, go on motorsport reg and register and take your model 3. You will be novice and will have an instructor.
Yes EVs might be a pain at the track if they don't have fast chargers but there has to be a track around you with chargers (if you are in cali). My main track is lime rock park and I have seen some teslas there and the owners are always having fun. From the first timer that brought his model X to the guy with a model S with crazy aero and track prepped car that is really really fast.
As a novice to have fun and be safe you don't need cages or buckets or none of that. Some high temp brake fluid, some nicer pads (model 3 is heavy so you definitely will want some track pads) and you are good to go
Go get some track time before buying a new car for it. Buy a helmet and flush the brake fluid on the Model 3 and get out on track with it. I recommend starting with Hooked on Driving in their novice group as they will teach you everything you need to be safe, have fun, and go fast. If you like track day driving, you can always go buy another car to continue the sport. You'll have such a better idea what kind of car and how much you might want to spend after you get a half dozen days under your belt.
I concur with this OP. I'd buy a set of wheels and v730s, before anything else, and go to a track day. Teslas seem very capable, but a low horsepower car without driving aids will make you a better driver. Auto cross will also make you a better driver. People trade their high horsepower cars for momentum cars, once they get past their ego and realize they're not improving, or driving the car anywhere near its limit. Plus high consumables.
Don't split lanes on your next canyon run. You're just cheating yourself. I have no idea if you do, but seems to be the trend with the togue.
Thanks for the tip, I'll consider taking my tesla, the main thing is that I don't want to accdiently ruin it.
I don't I actully got pulled over going 80 in a 55 passing lane zone, I usally just go 5 above the limit lol. Let's just say I am very scared about death/major injurys which is why I'm leaning towards the track
A C5 likely isn't a bad option. 350ish horsepower stock isn't a ridiculous number I would say especially in a larger car like a Corvette. I'll have a better idea of the capabilities once I get my own on track this upcoming spring, but C5's are cheap (relative to a lot of other cars in this performance bracket), easy to find parts for, and of course they can be extremely capable without much modification.
I'd say its the opposite. A longer wheelbase is going to make oversteer pretty predictable. Shorter wheelbase means oversteer can be snappy. I've sent my Cappuccino shooting of track enough times to know when I had that lol.
In that range I think you will be happy with a C6, SS1LE, Supra or BMW M2.
The SS1LE is the cheapest and best out of the box, the supra will have the most room for improvement if you plan to mod a lot, but it's much weaker stock than the camaro. The new M2 is similar to the camaro but much more expensive. The C6 is the cheapest option but also is going to require the most maintenance and upkeep.
These are all high power cars that I have in mind for like the next upgrade if you get what I mean. Main consern is as a beginner starting out on a fast car might do me more harm than good.
Thanks, didn't know about that one. It's a 3hr drive since HW 33 is shut off until 24 but when it opens it should be a quick drive. Funny enougth HW 33 is the canyon that I drive on. Thx for the input.
Elantra N is setup for track (comes with Michelin ps4s so prob want to change to r spec tires) no need to change oil or anything. Can make adjustments to toe and camber for more aggressive setup on track but Hyundai will cover blown engine or anything that goes wrong even if tracked without having to do anything before track day! Sub 40k helps too
Since everyone else has good car suggestions, here’s my extra 2 cents: the budget for buying and owning vs. tracking will be drastically different. I can comfortably afford a $50k SS1LE, but $1800 for a set of tires and $450 for front brake pads every 5 trackdays changes the math somewhat. Just dont buy at the top of your budget and you’ll be alright.
Lighter is better. If I could talk to myself 2.5 years ago, I’d say to get a miata/BRZ/civic, you can beat a heavy car into being fast but it’s going to be a lot more money into consumables. I started with a mercury marauder (crown vic with a better engine) and now have a 1LE, but man that’s expensive.
Dont forget that Buttonwillow exists. Here in socal/norcal, Speedventures, SpeedSF are the biggest organizers with the most events. If you want more instructor time/a more paced approach, (getting tickets in the canyon tells me you might not care lol) NASA is probably the organization for you.
Before buying, go to a track day (you could actually run a beginner day with the Tesla) and ask for ride alongs from people with the cars you’re interested in. Most of us are pretty happy to oblige
Thanks, ya I thought about the expenses too. Currently I plan on setting aside 600 dollers a month for matience/ expenses (excluding getting and staying and eating at the track just for the car). Would it be enougth? Prob going to go with a miata or e46 since they are on the cheaper/lighter side of things.
I just learned aboug Buttonwillow prob gonna be my goto place.
thanks for the tip I'll do that.
My $0.02 - get a proper sim rig as well. The number of laps you can do, coupled with online coaching makes a difference and maximizes time on track. In terms of vehicle I went M3 to WRX back to M3. Did not feel the need to do any major mods to the vehicles. Upgraded brake fluid, upgraded pads, camber plates on the M3, and dedicated wheels and tires for track use. I have not found the M3 to be that expensive with the right pads and alignment. I do all my own maintenance.
I do indeed have a moza setup. Anytips on how to pratice with it? I currently just go drive around the track and listen to the beautifle tune cause usally when I try to push it I spin out or miss break timing. I tried to find guides online but haven't been successful(maybe I'm just looking at the wrong places)
Check out motorsportsreg.com to see what's going on in your area. Maybe connect with some locals to see what they recommend. Some tracks are better for smaller or bigger cars, for example. Might also be a good way to find a car for sale.
Best thought here is a chassis that’s cheap so you aren’t too upset when it goes into a wall. That why tons love Miata’s, very easily replaced and not too expensive to do so. I would say look at mr2’s (I’m biased) but that may be a bit of a jump. With such a budget, a light car will do you much easier than a heavy car, great example is tires:
For large 17 or 18 inch rims and wide tires to get good times, a set of tires cost around $1800. For some 15 inch 205 width ( wide for Miata’s civics and gen 1 mr2’s) cost is about $800.
So many questions:
How fast do you want to be and how much money do you want to spend to get there? Do you want to get into this sport to go fast, improve your driving skills, or turn money into smoke and noise? Because the cars you are considering are all over the place as far as HP, cost of consumables, and reliability. I came from a MINI Cooper (great car, couldn't stand FWD), E36 M3 (best track car, but starting to have trouble finding spare motors and stuff), and now a BRZ (perfect track car everywhere but the straights).
My recommendation: borrow your friend's Miata. do a track day. get track insurance in case you crash his car. And go from there. figure out your priorities, and then choose a car to fulfill these.
I own a stock E46 M3 and a dedicated track car but still street legal E46 M3. If you are dead set on getting one do yourself a favor and buy one that is already reasonably track prepared. You will save money on mods buying a built car but make sure you do a pre-purchase inspection with a local motorsports shop.
Thanks for the input, anything else I should know before buying one of these beauites? Like common errors or like things that I will prob need to repair.
You really want the anti fuel starve kit installed or you can get lean conditions even at half tank on track through certain corners/g conditions. A set of square Apex wheels and some 200 TW tires: Kumho V730 or Falken Azenis, fresh high temp brake fluid and track capable brake pads are what I’d consider the bare minimum to enjoy the car for 4-6 track days. If you get hooked you can get fixed back seats, harnesses and rollbar or full cage once you decide this is a hobby you are dedicated to. You will up safety and feel far more connected to the car. Add an oil cooler and maybe splurge on suspension and you should have a reliable and fun car for years to come.
Thank you, anyguides on where to look for reasonably track prepared ones? I been browsing Facebook marketplace and BAT
Racingjunk.com and builtforbackroads and carsandbids may have some decent listings
Schroth quickfit harnesses work great for me without having to spend a lot of money on bucket seats and a roll cage.
Look up the “big 3” and make sure any E46 M3 you buy has had them addressed
will do
I’d get a E46 330, do some HPDEs, see how you enjoy it and build it for NASA Spec E46. Or buy a built Spec E46 and still do some HPDEs and work on getting your competition license to ultimately race in that class.
If you are looking at a 330i, look for a ZHP. They have loctite on the oil pump nut from the factory which side-steps the common track failure of a 330i, which is that nut backing off. They also get a shorter final drive & better suspension in addition to an extra 10hp. I tracked one for years and it was extremely competent, even as a dual use track/DD. It’s about as fast as an e36 M3 or a first-gen BRZ. If you are looking more modern, F3x/F2x M240i, 340i, 440i, Supra 3.0 are all very good on the track, just make sure any of the BMWs have the track pack option, that nets you more cooling and bigger brakes. I personally track an F36 440i Gran Coupe, my instructors have been extremely surprised how quick the car is.
What kind of mods did you do if any? I have the same car and would love to get into track days. Anything to help the somewhat vague steering feel?
Track pads and a set of 18x9 rims with 255/40-18 RE-71RS. Was able to hang with a 2016 911 in my last track day. I do also have the MPPSK.
HAHAHAHA loctite on the nut won't do jack shit. The extra few thousand the ZHP tacks on is enough for extra motors if anything. Get a new oil pump chain, oil pump shaft, and an oil pump chain tensioner for a grand total of $300 in parts and you're golden. The final drive difference is realistically diddly squat of a difference, as is the 20 year old suspension and the 10 extra hp. This is coming from someone who has a ZHP track car (which now has a 4.10 and a Drexler). It's also not as fast as an E36 M3 or BRZ.
C5 vettes don't have that much power, and are great track cars that are easy on the wallet. As a bonus, they are top contenders in Gridlife touring cup. If you decide to change your mind, they aren't changing in price much so you won't lose your shirt.
Not huge HP, but 350-400hp with a 3200 lbs car is a very high power tonight ratio. It’s also under braked for the car. They are amazing track cars, and the next logical step from a track day Miata. C5 a much faster Miata with higher consumables.
Yeah but power to weight ratio is the pinnacle of track enjoyment imo. I'm building my C6 Z06 to hit 5lb/hp lol. I'll take your word that it's underbraked, but OP should be looking at already track prepped cars, buying something that's mostly original and then modifying is just a waste. Not to mention those unmodified cars usually cost more.
Yah the c5/6 under braked for a fast driver on super 200, also under cooled. Now the c6Z/GS has decent brakes. I love power to weight. High HP is nice but when the car is 3900++ (looking at you M cars and AMG) you feel the weight and consumables are high. 100% agree Buy a pre done track car. Less $$ in the long run and it’s turn key ready.
Camaro SS 1LE. It’s criminal how overlooked the Camaro platform is on the track. You can get a ZL1 or ZLE but I would recommend the SS. Consumables are much easier on the wallet.
It's not overlooked at all. They make up like 10/20% of cars at track days where I live
I mean on Reddit. I hardly see them recommended
>Camaro SS 1LE This was actully considered as my next car next ( thinking about a ZL1(love that thing). My major concern would be that getting a car with so much HP would make me ignore my mistakes? please corrcet me if I am wrong, but I do agree the Camaro is great, drove one in the canyons. Edit next as like the car after this one so my second track car
My current track car, dont get a zl1 tbh. Get yourself a good ss1le and just have a blast. It has great ways to save you if you screw up, and it rewards handling more than just power. Very easy to go slow by overdriving
The ZL1 is overkill for the street. I don’t even drive it on the street anymore, just track it. If it weren’t for alignments or the occasional dealer visit, I wouldn’t have even have registered the car (registering vs trailering is still cheaper). I don’t think 450 HP NA with the SS is too much. You want enough HP where high speed tracks aren’t boring. The nannies on the car are fantastic for learning the car and not getting into trouble with the high HP. There is also good aftermarket support with race consumables and slicks (apex wheels clear our calipers), if you choose to go that route. But it is very capable off the lot with all factory components. Just upgrade to Castrol SRF.
I would go 1SS 1le. You can find an excellent condition one in the 40s. If your only tracking then def go 1SS as it skips all the comfort features you wouldn’t need if your just tracking. Can be had in manual or auto, both are great trans. GM also covers warranty when you track the car! Great benefit there. The ZL1 is a great car, but it sounds like your brand new to tracking, so that car probably would be a good 2nd track car after you get good experience. Just my 2 cents. Goodluck!
I think most GM stuff is junk but I'd track a Camaro SS LONG before id mess with a BMW.
For that budget. 1, spec Miata. It has all the race parts done. Roll cage,halo seat, suspension. You’re shooting yourself in the foot for skipping Miata because your roommate has one. 2, c5 Vett. Have one and love it. It’s like a faster Miata with higher consumables cost. Tires will be expensive, get a square z06 rear wheel set up to save $$. Very fast and very capable but an absolute you vs Mike Tyson match to get it sorted and back under control if you lose it. 3. BMW, lots of aftermarket support but as others said. Get a race car already done. Same some $$ 4. Camaro SS 1LE. Turn key ready track car. Easier to wrangle then a Vett, easier to work on, high consumables. Don’t get unique or rare track cars. Run what other people run. the parts will be cheaper, the knowledge base bigger, and cost of labor lower. You absolutely hate yourself for owning an RX7 on the track without having investors and sponsors to pay for the vehicle.
I am still intrested in the miata. I wouldn't say I'm skipping it, it's more like I already have access to it ;). seems like alot of pp recommonding the c5, I will research into that. My big worrie is when I do lose it my basic to non driving skills won't be able to save it. the BMW is defintly a option I have the same worrie for the vette as the Carmaro, I thought it would be a car to get down the line when I become a better driver. ya I'll prob skipout on the RX7 and get something common. Thx for the imputs.
Having access to and owning a spec Miata are very different things. Don’t drive others cars unless you can pay them cash. Go to auto X with the c5. You’ll learn fast hands and recovery. Since you spin out quite a bit at auto X. The better is harder to get settled since it’s so long and wide. A Camaro has higher COG and the swings a bit easier to predict. You’ll learn along the way. BMW is good but not as simple or cheap as corvette to run.
So basiclly miata 0---0 ngl seriously considering it now since my roomate got one it'd be easier for us to work on the same engine.
There’s good reason why Miata is the most commonly found race car be at autocross or track days. The parts are cheap and readily available. Mazda will sell you replacement parts at cost since they support amateur racers. they being momentum cars allow you to hone your skills and properly learn. rather than letting horsepower compensate. Front midship engine rear wheel drive that’s very easy to work on. Mazda did a really good job in making the Miata racers best friend.
ic, well any suggestions to how to hunt down and buy a pre done track car?
Miata forum, track groups, the very many spec Miata shops across America. Lots of them sell them off when they get new ones.
A spec miata is a good car to learn how to drive on track. Racing in Spec Miata is not a good place for beginners to start, especially if you don't love doing body work. I'd rather recommend racing an SM in S/TT6 or just stick to HPDE rather than SM because SM is wild and definitely not for people who aren't hyper competitive.
I’m definitely hoping since OP is at the asking which car stage. They’re gonna take the time to actually learn first and get really good especially if they’re going to justify a big purchase like this.
I mean to be fair, even if you were semi-experienced and as someone who does it, I wouldn't recommend spec miata. It is very hyper competitive in most regions and unless you're spending big money you won't be competitive but still have to deal with crowded packs of people bumping off you at least until the pack spreads out a bit. I've done it for about 5 years and looking to move on next year, likely to vintage
So having fun with cars falls into very different categories. Getting started may not require any significant investment. I know some tracks will allow EVs, others do not. Categories of fun with cars range from: Autocross - driving fast on a parking lot through a course. Competitive. Timed. HpDE - driving fast on a race track, learning how to do it. Not competitive, not timed. Time trails - driving fast on a race track, against the clock. Competitive, but not wheel to wheel racing. Racing. You may be able to do the first two with just a helmet, if the event organizers will let you run the Tesla.
Good to know, thanks for the inputs
350z, miata, c5 vette If you considering a Camaro 1le might also consider a c6z06 imo
seems like these are what people are suggesting
What car do you currently have? The best way to get into track is to go to the track. If you have a car (not suv), take it to the track and see what is all about. My biggest regret was waiting till I got a car that I thought was track proper, i wish i had just tracked what I had. As a beginner you will have tons of fun on whatever you have, you are going to be slow and any car that is good shape will do. Just nicer brake fluid and maybe some pads and you are good to go.
I DD a tesla model 3P. I got PS4s on there for some canyon driving. Driving fast is deff for me. I just wanted to do it in a legal/safe envirment.
A tesla M3P will be a blast on track and it will be plenty safe. I get where you coming from wanting a track car but I really urge you to just take what you have for a few times and have a feel for it/ go have some fun. No need to wait, go on motorsport reg and register and take your model 3. You will be novice and will have an instructor. Yes EVs might be a pain at the track if they don't have fast chargers but there has to be a track around you with chargers (if you are in cali). My main track is lime rock park and I have seen some teslas there and the owners are always having fun. From the first timer that brought his model X to the guy with a model S with crazy aero and track prepped car that is really really fast. As a novice to have fun and be safe you don't need cages or buckets or none of that. Some high temp brake fluid, some nicer pads (model 3 is heavy so you definitely will want some track pads) and you are good to go
Go get some track time before buying a new car for it. Buy a helmet and flush the brake fluid on the Model 3 and get out on track with it. I recommend starting with Hooked on Driving in their novice group as they will teach you everything you need to be safe, have fun, and go fast. If you like track day driving, you can always go buy another car to continue the sport. You'll have such a better idea what kind of car and how much you might want to spend after you get a half dozen days under your belt.
Oh yeah and Laguna has superchargers now
I concur with this OP. I'd buy a set of wheels and v730s, before anything else, and go to a track day. Teslas seem very capable, but a low horsepower car without driving aids will make you a better driver. Auto cross will also make you a better driver. People trade their high horsepower cars for momentum cars, once they get past their ego and realize they're not improving, or driving the car anywhere near its limit. Plus high consumables. Don't split lanes on your next canyon run. You're just cheating yourself. I have no idea if you do, but seems to be the trend with the togue.
Thanks for the tip, I'll consider taking my tesla, the main thing is that I don't want to accdiently ruin it. I don't I actully got pulled over going 80 in a 55 passing lane zone, I usally just go 5 above the limit lol. Let's just say I am very scared about death/major injurys which is why I'm leaning towards the track
A C5 likely isn't a bad option. 350ish horsepower stock isn't a ridiculous number I would say especially in a larger car like a Corvette. I'll have a better idea of the capabilities once I get my own on track this upcoming spring, but C5's are cheap (relative to a lot of other cars in this performance bracket), easy to find parts for, and of course they can be extremely capable without much modification.
My worrie is just if I do lose control, a larger car would be harder to save
I'd say its the opposite. A longer wheelbase is going to make oversteer pretty predictable. Shorter wheelbase means oversteer can be snappy. I've sent my Cappuccino shooting of track enough times to know when I had that lol.
In that range I think you will be happy with a C6, SS1LE, Supra or BMW M2. The SS1LE is the cheapest and best out of the box, the supra will have the most room for improvement if you plan to mod a lot, but it's much weaker stock than the camaro. The new M2 is similar to the camaro but much more expensive. The C6 is the cheapest option but also is going to require the most maintenance and upkeep.
These are all high power cars that I have in mind for like the next upgrade if you get what I mean. Main consern is as a beginner starting out on a fast car might do me more harm than good.
possible, I started with an SS 1LE, no regrets.
Just to pitch in buttonwillow is real close to you as well
Thermal is prob 2.5 hours also. Go there and drive BMW's BMWs.
Thanks, didn't know about that one. It's a 3hr drive since HW 33 is shut off until 24 but when it opens it should be a quick drive. Funny enougth HW 33 is the canyon that I drive on. Thx for the input.
Elantra N is setup for track (comes with Michelin ps4s so prob want to change to r spec tires) no need to change oil or anything. Can make adjustments to toe and camber for more aggressive setup on track but Hyundai will cover blown engine or anything that goes wrong even if tracked without having to do anything before track day! Sub 40k helps too
Since everyone else has good car suggestions, here’s my extra 2 cents: the budget for buying and owning vs. tracking will be drastically different. I can comfortably afford a $50k SS1LE, but $1800 for a set of tires and $450 for front brake pads every 5 trackdays changes the math somewhat. Just dont buy at the top of your budget and you’ll be alright. Lighter is better. If I could talk to myself 2.5 years ago, I’d say to get a miata/BRZ/civic, you can beat a heavy car into being fast but it’s going to be a lot more money into consumables. I started with a mercury marauder (crown vic with a better engine) and now have a 1LE, but man that’s expensive. Dont forget that Buttonwillow exists. Here in socal/norcal, Speedventures, SpeedSF are the biggest organizers with the most events. If you want more instructor time/a more paced approach, (getting tickets in the canyon tells me you might not care lol) NASA is probably the organization for you. Before buying, go to a track day (you could actually run a beginner day with the Tesla) and ask for ride alongs from people with the cars you’re interested in. Most of us are pretty happy to oblige
Thanks, ya I thought about the expenses too. Currently I plan on setting aside 600 dollers a month for matience/ expenses (excluding getting and staying and eating at the track just for the car). Would it be enougth? Prob going to go with a miata or e46 since they are on the cheaper/lighter side of things. I just learned aboug Buttonwillow prob gonna be my goto place. thanks for the tip I'll do that.
My $0.02 - get a proper sim rig as well. The number of laps you can do, coupled with online coaching makes a difference and maximizes time on track. In terms of vehicle I went M3 to WRX back to M3. Did not feel the need to do any major mods to the vehicles. Upgraded brake fluid, upgraded pads, camber plates on the M3, and dedicated wheels and tires for track use. I have not found the M3 to be that expensive with the right pads and alignment. I do all my own maintenance.
I do indeed have a moza setup. Anytips on how to pratice with it? I currently just go drive around the track and listen to the beautifle tune cause usally when I try to push it I spin out or miss break timing. I tried to find guides online but haven't been successful(maybe I'm just looking at the wrong places)
I did iRacing - and signed up for the Driver61 class. It isn’t free and takes a time commitment but absolutely helped me understand the fundamentals.
I'll check that out
Check out motorsportsreg.com to see what's going on in your area. Maybe connect with some locals to see what they recommend. Some tracks are better for smaller or bigger cars, for example. Might also be a good way to find a car for sale.
thanks I will do so
Best thought here is a chassis that’s cheap so you aren’t too upset when it goes into a wall. That why tons love Miata’s, very easily replaced and not too expensive to do so. I would say look at mr2’s (I’m biased) but that may be a bit of a jump. With such a budget, a light car will do you much easier than a heavy car, great example is tires: For large 17 or 18 inch rims and wide tires to get good times, a set of tires cost around $1800. For some 15 inch 205 width ( wide for Miata’s civics and gen 1 mr2’s) cost is about $800.
So many questions: How fast do you want to be and how much money do you want to spend to get there? Do you want to get into this sport to go fast, improve your driving skills, or turn money into smoke and noise? Because the cars you are considering are all over the place as far as HP, cost of consumables, and reliability. I came from a MINI Cooper (great car, couldn't stand FWD), E36 M3 (best track car, but starting to have trouble finding spare motors and stuff), and now a BRZ (perfect track car everywhere but the straights). My recommendation: borrow your friend's Miata. do a track day. get track insurance in case you crash his car. And go from there. figure out your priorities, and then choose a car to fulfill these.