Miata Mailing List: October 1998, Message #198

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Safe from flames for a time as I'm signing off the list to go see the daughter
and her husband at Ft Riley, Kansas, I have an observation.

The observation is based on a bunch of track events since January and deals
with track events ONLY, and involves our (miata owners -- especially list
members) perception of our sports cars.   In short, unless a miata has a
really good driver, a supercharger or a turbo or all three, unless we are
"racing" against other miatas or "in class" automobiles, folks, it's still
just a miata.

Yes, it can be faster in the twisties but it's not a high performance sports
car.   Well driven "other cars" do pass us and stay past us.   Equivalent cars
frequently post as fast or faster lap times.  Vintage things of all sorts can
make us look like we are standing still.

The only time we really shine is against another Miatas for the most part.
Is that to say that the competition is not fun or rewarding, especially when a
big HP car trying to keep up with us self-eliminates on one or another corner?
no.!

We got a great car.  N/A or F/A but to be driven well and to compete well
takes a lot of expertise as well as understanding that there are those who are
faster.  Why do I post this?  A reality check maybe after spending an evening
with my local sport car club buddies and buddettes.   It's all about the fun
our cars bring us.   It's okay to  come in second once in a while :)   We
gotta' let those megabuck folks have their time in the sun too :)

bob