New to SCCA, what class?

[amiller320]

Hello everyone. I'm a newbie here.

I've wanted to get into Solo II racing for a few years, but I've never gotten around to actually -doing- it. I think next year is the time. I'll go to the classes in April to learn more about the sport and what I'm doing...

However, I'm curious about car classification. I have a car that, well... isn't exactly what most people are running. I have a 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis that I'd like to use. It doesn't have the High-Performance Package, it's just a standard grandma boat -- completely stock. What class would I be in according to SCCA rules? I'm curious about what kind of cars I'd be running against.

I know I should have a smaller, faster car... but I figure what the heck. I'll start with the family truckster, and go from there.

Oh, and like all full-size Fords, its a RWD with the 4.6L V8 SOHC engine.

Thanks!

[washburn]

Now we're talking! You will just have to get in line behind all the other Marquis drivers!

I think they will be placed in FS according to the rules. You would typically see F Bodies and Mustangs dominate this class. Who cares though...I like your attitude. Hop in and let her snap! Watch for the novice school next spring if you want to get a good head start on things.

Pat Washburn

[amiller320]

Ahh, yes. I see the 'catch-all' classifications now.

Man -- being pared up against F-bodies & Mustangs? I'll get killed!

Oh well. At least I'll be comfortable on the drive up!

I saw the listing for the novice classes in April. I plan on going.... that sounds like fun.

I'm going to try to make it out to the event at Midway Stadium in a couple of weeks to watch, not participate (car needs new shocks & tires first!). But, I own a B&B so weekend schedules are kind of tight. We'll see!

[Drew]

A St. Paul cop ran his Crown Vic squad through the course a couple of times at Midway last Sunday. And one of our regular Mustang drivers also ran his squad at HTC last year. They both made a respectable showing.

Go for it! It's fun to see some variety out there.

BTW, I started autoxing my first few events in an older Chev Lumina until I decided on a neat RX-7. The Lumina really was kind of fun.

Drew Baumbach
(now with a VW Golf #770)

[weidnerpaul]

To AMILLER320,

Glad you are deciding to try autocrossing and I'm looking forward to seeing your Marquis on the course. We had a Lincoln at the novice school this past spring, and he/his car did well, much better that you would have guessed.

I hope you can make the last MOWOG as a spectator, if you can stay for "fun runs" at the end as passengers are allowed, you may be able to score a ride or two to get a little better idea of what it's like. Look me up for a ride, I'll be driving either a MINI Cooper S or a 1984 Marcos.

Paul

BTW---Does your Marquis have the "De Sade" option :p :D :)

[amiller320]

I'm pretty sure that I'll be able to make it to Midway on Sunday. In the parking lot, right?

I'm still considering running my car, just so I get one event under my belt before next year.

The sqaud Crown Vics have a bit of advantage over my car -- they have better gearing and a better suspension set-up. But, driver is 90% of the equasion anyway. So if I suck it's all my own fault :)

Paul -- I'll look you up for a ride if I make it. That would be fun.

The "de Sade" is provided by the driver. The car is very wholesome and church going. The loose nut behind the wheel, however......

Andy>>

[Protege Menac]

Originally posted by amiller320

The sqaud Crown Vics have a bit of advantage over my car -- they have better gearing and a better suspension set-up. But, driver is 90% of the equasion anyway. So if I suck it's all my own fault :)



Ive only driven my 82 hp protege in mowog 5 and 6, but was a few seconds faster than the vic :p


Come this weekend, it'll be worth your time ;)

[amiller320]

Thanks for all of the comments so far. You guys have been great!

It looks like I -will- be there Sunday, but only as a spectator. I run a B&B on the weekends with my wife, and need to be around the house in the morning. I won't get to the course until 11AM or so.

Even though I can't race, I want to get as much out of the day as possible. I'd love to be able to hang around a team or two to learn the ins and outs of Solo II. I'd like to hear comments about the track, the cars, and the other drivers from someone who is fairly experienced. Is there anyone out there that will put up with me for a few hours?

Also -- I want to go on as many ride-alongs as I can. I'll pay for your fun run if I can ride with you! I'm especially interested in riding with anyone in a Mk1 or Mk2 VW, as that's what I'd like to buy to run next year. Any other low-budget cars qualify :) Riding in one of the higer-budget cars would be a fun too. Really... any car is fine.

My name is Andy Miller. I'm a big guy (6'4") with blonde hair and glasses. I'll be the one wandering around aimlessly, oogling your car. Say Hi!

Andy>>
Medford, MN

[phile]

Originally posted by amiller320

My name is Andy Miller. I'm a big guy (6'4") with blonde hair and glasses. I'll be the one wandering around aimlessly, oogling your car. Say Hi!

Andy>>
Medford, MN



I don't think you will be taking any fun runs in the Lotus. :-)

I'm an average guy (5'9") with white hair and glasses. I'll be wandering around aimlessly, as usual. I fit in the Lotus because I am about the same size as Colin Chapman.

Phil Ethier
Saint Paul, MN

[Chris Bienert]

Just introduce yourself around as the "guy from the message board". A big part of autox is the social aspect. Folks will be happy to tell you more than you ever wanted to know!

Chris
Red Miata #37

[amiller320]

Sorry about so many posts...

I have two questions about the fun-run/ride-along:


1.) Do passengers require a helmet?



2.) Can only people who have raced earlier in the day make fun-runs, or can any car go?



Thanks!
Andy>>

[weidnerpaul]

Three answers to your two ??

1. You need a helmet, Snell 95 or better to ride, the club has 4-5 loaners you can borrow.

2. The only cars allowed are ones that have been "Tech'ed" in the AM B4 the Autocross.

3. It's Autocrossing not "Racing", not to be PC but for insurance reasons etc what we do is AX not racing.

Paul

[amiller320]

Yeah, I knew I was going to get spanked when I called it 'racing'...

Thanks for the info. I'll bring a helmet. I'm sure my head is too big for the club's loaners. The rocks and hot air take up a lot of room up there.

I'm stoked for Sunday!