Spec Miata

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Anyone here done it? How was it? And how do the cars compare to a well modified non-spec Miata of similar worth?

[metalman]

Compare?
Spec cars, although 'stock', are specifically prepared to fit within a set of rules.
They untilize numerous items and 'tricks' not typically seen in street cars. They also often utiilize pro built motors, which do make power....much of which also involves more 'tricks' within that rule set....in addition to knowlege and/or money.
I would say a well prepared spec car will smoke your average naturally aspirated street Miata.
In truth, a spec Miata will eat your typical modified or turbo street Miata for lunch on a road course. Of course there are always exceptions. :)

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

When I say compare, it was more along the lines of how well setup they are. Like the sort of suspension parts used, the quality and etc.

I would really like to check out a few races for my viewing pleasure, I guess I'll do a little searching.

[metalman]

The suspension parts used are whats specified within the rule set.
Of course, the tuning of that setup is where skill is.
More info on specific items can be had at www.specmiata.com

[simontibbett]

The racing is VERY close and fun to watch. I would be running SM next year, but I would have to detune my car too much so will do ITA. You can read the rule book off SCCA's site, pretty interesting how little you can do, and how many tricks racers do to get the MOST out of the cars.

[FE3tMX5]

Consider a professionally built front runner NB turn key car sells for near $40k from a shop. That's for a car racing a relatively stock class. Me thinks that price puts the amount of preparation (and performance) in perspective.

IMO the class has become over populated with more money and less driving skill. That's the problem with a class that's spec yet allows anybody to build anything - unlike forumula mazda or spec racer ford. This means that talented drivers with <$10k SMs run mid pack. That said- this is the nature of racing and racing in popular classes. I like ITA. I like racing against other types of cars and making your own decisions about putting parts on the car.

I was codriving the Miata below in ITA up 'til last year. It was a sub $10k car (barely). For the 07 ARRC enduro, I qualified it on ITA pole and we managed a second place finish (nearly a win- after being run off in turn 1).
http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t86/m2cupcar/race/ARRC2007_002/CRW_4161.jpg
http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t86/m2cupcar/race/ARRC2007_002/CRW_4218.jpg

[metalman]

"If it's not Scottish its crap!"

:D :D

[simontibbett]

I remember seeing that car^ Lip is sexy ;)

[FE3tMX5]

that lip is an awesome piece... until it hits some rd atlanta clay 90 mph :lol:

[dbright007]

Usually before I go to HPDE a track, I try to find a spec miata vid (and hopefully it has traqmate). Great learning tool to see what gears they use for certain turns and what line a miata likes. The racing part is fun, the clean laps are very instructional.

Example.

Spec race (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8806021222017110651&q=cmp+miata&ei=54WKSJetHISSrgLd3rHBCA)

[JDM88]

Great video. Having watched that, to quite RickyBobby, "I wanna go fast!"

[dbright007]

Yep,
I drove that track a couple weeks ago, and was doing my best to match his speeds. Couldn't do it but had a blast trying!