Miata Mailing List: February 2000, Message #212

sponsored by

(last post, pre-coffee intake this morning) mis-spelled Miatas! someone
shoot me)

Last year, some of you who are SCCA members may recall an effort to
change the rules to allow the Miata to run topless in ITA and SSB (and
Spec Miata) classes (this of course, has nothing to do with autocross). 
IIRC, the effort died in committee last year for "lack of interest,"
which I didn't understand why at the time.

Now, the rule-change is being proposed again.  My understanding is the
proposed "topless" rule is curretnly with the "competition board" for
review.

I am for this rule.  Quite frankly, I never understood why a convertible
car was mandated to run with a factory option hard top.  Did you know
there are some cars that also have the hard-top as a factory option and
they are not *allowed* to race *with* the hardtop!

Another reason I never understood the top-mandated rule is the
inconsistency to allow the Miata to run topless (and windshieldless) in
EP class.  The roll cage is a requirement in all classes.  It may vary
some, but the protection is there.

The bottom line for me is that the top in nothing more than a
restriction.  The Miata is a convertible, a roadster; it is not a coupe.
Let it show its heritage whereever it is.  The top is also nothing more
than an expense to would-be racers interested in driving this great car.
It restricts vision, it even changes the overall classic design.  I'm
not *knocking* its utility on the street, I think they are a nice
*option,* but they have little if any utility on the race track.

It is important to keep the momentum going.  Something must be done to
change the rule.  Keep the thread alive today.  I will appreciate you
comments (pro & con).  As you banter, keep in mind the *consistency* of
the varying top requirements and *why* consistency is or it isn't
important.  Also keep in mind the Miata, and its original design intent;
and anything else you find interesting about this subject.

Talk or E-mail your SCCA Regional Executive.  I don't know if it would
help, but maybe, if enough interest is here on this list, we could make
our interest known by petition, or whatever.  Thanks in advance for your
discussion.
-- 
RAGS 2
Co-founder: Roadster Association of the Great Smokies Miata Club
Team MIB & M2Racing
Project X605 & P729
rags.tsx.org