What's the next step?

[michaelw]

I have owned my 87 targa for 7 months now and am beginning to realize it's time to take the next step with my Porsche, but what is it? Should I try a drivers ed program or some type of beginner autocross event? Can I do these things with a bone stock car or do I need to make upgrades. Other than car stuff is there anything else I would need to purchase?

Thanks,
Michael W

[Z-man]

Michael:
Yes, Yes and YES!
1. Definately attend an autox event.
2. Definately attend a DE event.
3. All of the above can be done with a bone stock car.

Regarding Driver's ED: although it is not required, it is helpful if you attend a couple of autocrosses or car control clinics prior to your first DE event.

And another suggestion: DON'T modify your car at all for these events, at least for some time. Work on your driving skills: improve those. The focus of these events are to improve YOUR skills, not the car's skills.

Once you've exceeded your car's suspension/engine limits, then you can consider upping the ante. (That can take a few years, IMO) But for now, you're better off keeping your stock configuration. (Note: I have a bone-stock 944S2, and have done both autox or DE with it. This past weekend, I took 2nd in class at our last autox of the season! And I don't even have autocross tires!)

Just my $0.42.
-Zoltan.

[BK911]

Drivers ed! Everytime I do a DE event I smile for weeks! Learn the car stock before you make upgrades. Most likely you can't use the cars full potential stock, why upgrade? Buy a performance driving book and an SA rated helmet then go and have some fun! Be advised, DE's are highly addictive! Get the car teched so you know it's track ready, then Vroom vroom!

Have fun!
BK

[michaelw]

Thanks guys.

Michael

[Jim Smolka]

For your first DE, you might want to consider a set of track tires like Komo Victor Racers. IMHO, these tires are better suited for the track than street tires.

My wife & I went to a DE the first week of October. This was her first event. Since my car has track tires, stiff suspension, bigger brakes, etc, she had a great time passing most of the other cars in the Green Group. Now most of that stuff is not required, it does make it that much more fun