Beginning In Auto-X
 

Hello all, right now, I am rexless, for now..... I have a Turbo DSM as a daily driver and was wondering on a few key points in beginning in auto-x, drifting, or road racing. ((Not really sure the differences)).

First off, I would like to start in non street/drag racing because Im tired of the straight track scene. What car would be cheap and good for a beginner in auto-x, or road racing? Right now I have a FF drivetrain car, Im not sure, but I think the setup has to be FR. What car do you guys recommend for this? A rex? An 86? A 240/180sx? What are some of the advantages/disadvantages pf each? ((If you know, if not, the its alright)) Im leaning to a 240/180sx, What do you guys think?

What's the difference between Auto-x and road racing? How can I learn? Ive practiced letting the wheels oversteer a bit with my old rex, and I used to do pretty good, but thats about all I know. How can I begin this racing? What are some rules? What are minimum mpds for the car?

Thank you all for your help

I forgot to mention, but you all probably see, Im in S.Fl

Re: Beginning In Auto-X
 

Don't think. Just go out and compete. It doesn't matter what car you show up with. There's a learning curve ... just like anything else. Eventually you'll get fast with one car and want to jump into something else. But, to answer your question, a 240SX is not a bad starting spot.

Road racing is high-speed track driving. It can be club racing, time trials, Solo I .... it's kind of a catch-all phrase. Auto-x is Solo II ... aka cone-dodging 101. Lower speed and usually conducted in big parking lots or open concrete spaces. Check out www.scca.org to find out more information. Find your local chapter and just show up. Rules are in the SoloI/II rulebook, available through the SCCA. There other organizations for road racing as well. PCA, BMWCCA, and several other national programs hold their own auto-x's as well. But, if you get good enough, only the SCCA holds a National Championship competition. See the rulebook for mods .... usually it's maximum mods for a car .... there is no minimum. :D

Thanks for your help, and for your quick reply bro, Im getting right on it.

Is it really necessary to go to racing school or can I learn from other auto-x'ers

For just auto-x, you don't need any special schooling first. Just show up to a few events, learn a little and see if you like it. I was at the autocross at Sebring the other weekend, and since I still haven't done the three SCCA auto-x's they allow you for novice class, I got stuck in novice class. I won. :D

Your first few events you will learn a lot, but don't be discouraged if your well off the pace of the faster drivers, or even the middle of the pack. It takes time.

Auto-x really isn't about what car you're driving, it's WHO is driving. So, just pick a car you like and think would be fun to mod. Go to one now with the DSM you have.