I was just wanting some input on the pros and cons of a turbo build up vs. a N/A build up. Ie longevity, cost, maintence. Etc. I race with NASA and was considering building a car for SU. Thanks

 

NASA allows turbocharged cars? I'm not sure, maybe they do... for some reason I thought they didnt.

 

NASA allows turbo cars, and SU stands for Super Unlimitted and anything is legal. I ran an SU turbo II for many years. A turbo setup correctly will last as long as a high reving NA.

 

Pros vs Cons..

All IMHO..

Turbos are going to be expensive to run vs a N/A car.

Turbos are stuck in unlimited classes, where NA cars can run in lower classes with cars of similar speeds. While that doesn't sound so appealing to someone not familar with racing, it means a steeper learning curve in the unlimited classes (not as many cars of your speed to learn from), and you'll probably not win that often if someone shows up with a faster car. Here in NASA Norcal, we frequently have big boy 911 GT turbos and NASCAR tubeframe cars running with us, so it's going to be tough getting on the podium.

Longevity wise, I can't argue with Tim, don't know enough to say one way or another. But my NA car has been great, reliability wise. (crossing fingers)

On the other hand, with a turbo car (or an NA car in an unlimited style class), you can do whatever the heck pleases you. Want to install a Haltech? Go ahead! Slicks? Sure.. Big wing and 17" wheels? No problem. With the more cost effective classes, you're stuck with rules. Rules like having to keep your windshield washer bottle in place. Your heater must remain intact.. Can't move your battery.. etc. etc. etc.

Hope that helps. Your best bet, go look at your local club, watch who races what, ask questions.. You may be better off scrapping the RX-7 and looking into more popular classes. Out here, Camaro Mustang Challenge regularly fields 15-20 cars.. ProSedan 1 (my class)? 3. Sure, guaranteed a podium spot, but 3 cars? blech.

PaulC

 

Come on Paul, when was the last time you saw three cars on any track during a race, you guys make great pylons Kidding, SU is as these guys say, a good place to play, but if you expect alot of comparable cars, try one of the spec classes. I am building an SU car, a Turbo RX7, widebody/12" slicks/~450rwhp/2450lbs. I am building exactly what I want, sometimes I'll clean up, and sometimes I'll get taught. What matters to me, is to build just what I want, and race it. That is what I will do. I have one expectation, that is to get some track time in my dream race car built by me. If that is your dream, SU can be a good place, if you want consistent wheel to wheel action on a reasonable budget try another class. Good luck, Carl Byck

 

Thanks for the replys guys. Last season I ran In American Iron Extreme. The car that I was driving will not be available next year so Iwas wanting to to try my hand with one of my old RX's.
Im also considering PS-0 but i dont know if i want to be that confined.