Discussion
I have an MR2 roadster but have never used it on track; but will at some point. It does handle very well, even on 70k standard suspension. A mildly modified one with Koni Sport, suspension would be good on track and probably ride nicely on the road. It lacks the grunt to ever be super fast over a lap. Biggest problem is lack of tyre options. Different tyre sizes front and rear make it awkward to find a full set of tyres, particularly ones that can deal with wet weather. I am 6ft 3, so would probably always favour the MR2, as I fit better. Most people would probably go for the MX5. Have not driven one enough to give you an opinion, but doubtless popular for good reasons.
brillomaster said:
£3k on car. £300 on some decent brake pads. £200 on some lowering springs. £500 on tyres. And away you go.
This, except I would spend the £200 on a four wheel alignment to check it is spot on add a little front negative camber, and change the brake fluid for fresh high temp stuff.Tyres, ask advice on the forums, but make it clear that you want road use as well. There are some good tyres out there that will deal with both wet and dry conditions. Then get out there and see if track days float your boat, before you try to make it faster.
A few other things, which only apply if you are new to track days, but may be of use to others reading this:
Don't forget to budget for the track days themselves, typically around £200 a pop, plus fuel and consumables.
You will need a reasonable full face helmet, but perhaps hire one for the first couple of times in case you decide it's not for you.
Don't forget to take your driving licence with you to the track day - they will examine it.
You are very unlikely to get hit by anyone else on track, but there is more chance of running off track and hitting armco etc. If someone hits you it's your problem, not theirs. They are not liable for your damage, and normal road insurance doesn't help you. You can get track day insurance if you want peace of mind, which covers typically 90% of the value of your own car - but other than that you are taking part at your own risk. FWIW, I have done over 40 track days with no damage, despite a few excursions off track at speed.
You will generally find a few MX5s at every track day, often gathered together in the pits. Join them and get involved, they are friendly and helpful and won't bite.. There's plenty of time when you aren't on track to chat, and do ask for passenger rides.
Finally, choice of track. Many airfield tracks offer better run off areas, so less chance of hitting anything. I personally prefer proper race tracks, and ideally with changes in elevation, but that's me.
Edited by QBee on Monday 21st August 08:27
andburg said:
Key thing for an mx5 is to find one with a limited slip diff.
Owners groups will tell you which cars had there given the huge variety of models and trims from import cars.
^^^^^^ THIS.Owners groups will tell you which cars had there given the huge variety of models and trims from import cars.
I should have mentioned it, but my car is a TVR and the 1990s TVRs all come with LSDs.
I have however been chased around many a track by MX5s.......they are fun cars, enjoy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAZCOXpZCWY
baptistsan said:
Thinking either an MX5 or MR2, means I can have the roof down on sunny days too!
Thoughts please?
Drive both to see which you prefer - sounds obvious, I really enjoyed the Mk1 MX5 I had a go in years back and thought they were brilliant. I then had a go in a Mk3 MR2, miles better car to drive and quicker point to point. They are more of a 'challenge' owing to the MR layout (as pointed out by others' "Widowmaker, stick you in the scenary any day pal" comments), however as an ownership proposition that's what i'd be looking for - something you can get to know, as opposed to getting bored of after 3 months then going shopping for modification parts. Thoughts please?
Either are fun cars to drive so whichever you pick, IMO you shouldn't be disappointed
I've owned and tracked both NA and NC MX5s, and mk3 MR2s in naturally aspirated and turbo guise. MX5s were fast road spec, one MR2 was fully stripped and nigh-on track only and one MR2 was fast road. The NA MX5 was on the cheapest ditchfinders I could find on purpose, and the others all on either Michelins or semi-slicks.
Pound for pound, the mk1 MX5 was the most fun. Light, delicate, balanced. Gutless in a straight line (as you'd expect) but never every failed to make me laugh. NC that bit quicker, but also that bit heavier and a bit blunt (I still own this car, and do still love it, but I won't track it again). MR2s were great fun, first cars I ever tracked, but do need that bit more confidence to get the best out of them. When you do they're brilliant, but has been said the aftermarket support isn't a patch on the MX5s.
Quite honestly though, whatever you decide will be great. MX5 if you fancy some skids, MR2 if your style is a bit more precise.
Pound for pound, the mk1 MX5 was the most fun. Light, delicate, balanced. Gutless in a straight line (as you'd expect) but never every failed to make me laugh. NC that bit quicker, but also that bit heavier and a bit blunt (I still own this car, and do still love it, but I won't track it again). MR2s were great fun, first cars I ever tracked, but do need that bit more confidence to get the best out of them. When you do they're brilliant, but has been said the aftermarket support isn't a patch on the MX5s.
Quite honestly though, whatever you decide will be great. MX5 if you fancy some skids, MR2 if your style is a bit more precise.
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