Discover the Ultimate Track Car on a Budget

Discover the Ultimate Track Car on a Budget

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Frustrations of a Mazda Miata
3. The BMW 135i: A Promising Choice
4. The Honda S2000: A Love-Hate Relationship
5. The Toyota 86: Lightweight and Sporty
6. Considering the Price and Performance
7. The Challenges of Heavy Cars on the Track
8. The Solution: The BMW 128i
9. Upgrading Brakes for Track Performance
10. The Cost Consideration
11. The Temptation of a Miata Once Again
12. Creating your Own Car Story with Extreme Experience

The Journey to Find the Perfect Track Car

Finding the perfect track car can be an exhilarating yet challenging endeavor. As a driver passionate about pushing the limits on the racetrack, You strive to find a vehicle that can match your skill and excitement. However, the search for the ideal track car is often filled with frustration and disappointment, as each attempt to find the perfect balance of power, performance, and reliability seems to fall short. In this article, we will explore the author's personal experiences and discoveries while navigating the world of track cars, and the ultimate decision that led to the acquisition of a BMW 128i.

1. Introduction

Every track enthusiast knows the feeling of watching their friends zoom by on the straights, leaving them in the Dust. The author, an avid Mazda Miata driver, faced this challenge and became determined to find a solution. With a desire to add more power, turbocharging the Miata seemed like a logical choice. However, the idea of dealing with potential heating issues and other problems made this option less appealing. The next logical step was to upgrade to a faster car, leading to the purchase of a BMW 135i. Despite initial excitement, the author encountered various issues that ultimately led to the decision of moving on to a different car.

2. The Frustrations of a Mazda Miata

The Mazda Miata is a popular choice among track enthusiasts due to its agility and balance. However, as the author discovered, it can become disheartening when many friends outpace you on the straights. The realization that speed is not solely Based on skill can be a tough pill to swallow. Addictive as it may be, the author realized that keeping up with faster cars on the track required more than just skill - it required a car with greater power.

3. The BMW 135i: A Promising Choice

In pursuit of a faster track car, the author turned to the BMW 135i. With its small size, straight-6 engine, and twin turbos, it seemed like the perfect candidate for tuning and achieving higher levels of performance. Excitement quickly turned to disappointment when the author encountered a myriad of issues, from battery problems to fuel system failures. The dream of a faster car seemed to be slipping away.

4. The Honda S2000: A Love-Hate Relationship

Seeking a reliable and capable track car, the author set their sights on the Honda S2000. Acquiring a pristine example, the author took extra precautions to protect its value. However, the fear of pushing the car to its limits on track lurked in the back of their mind. One terrifying experience going through a high-speed turn reaffirmed the need for a car that could match their driving style without compromising safety.

5. The Toyota 86: Lightweight and Sporty

With limited options in the market for lightweight, sporty cars built for performance driving, the author explored the Toyota 86 (also known as the Scion FR-S or Subaru BRZ). After test-driving both the Miata and the Toyota 86 back-to-back, the author recognized the potential in the Toyota 86. Impressed by its lightweight and sporty nature, they decided to purchase a red Toyota 86 that offered a thrilling driving experience.

6. Considering the Price and Performance

While the Toyota 86 provided an enjoyable driving experience on the street, track performance left the author yearning for more power. However, they came to appreciate the dynamics of the car and the limitations of the stock tires. The affordability of the Toyota 86 compared to other options in the market made it an attractive choice for further exploration and modification.

7. The Challenges of Heavy Cars on the Track

As the author continued to track their Toyota 86, they began to encounter issues with the brakes. The weight of the car posed challenges in terms of handling and cost of consumables. Recognizing the need for a car that could handle more demanding track conditions, the author knew they had to find a solution to enhance the braking performance.

8. The Solution: The BMW 128i

Amidst the considerations and potential alternatives, the author stumbled upon the BMW 128i. Aware of the issues experienced with the turbos in the BMW 135i, the 128i seemed like a viable option without the added complexity. Finding a used BMW 128i at a reasonable price, the author decided to give it a try.

9. Upgrading Brakes for Track Performance

Once the BMW 128i became the chosen track car, the author recognized the need for improved braking capabilities. Upgrading from the stock single-piston caliper brakes, the author sourced a set of 6-piston calipers from a BMW 135i. This upgrade, coupled with high-quality rotors and pads, significantly enhanced the braking performance of the BMW 128i, allowing for a more confident and enjoyable track experience.

10. The Cost Consideration

While the pursuit of the ideal track car can be exhilarating, it is essential to consider the financial implications. The author acknowledges the higher costs associated with consumables such as tires and brakes for HEAVIER cars like the BMW 128i. However, by leveraging FCP Euro's lifetime warranty offerings for parts, the cost impact is mitigated. This unique approach towards long-term cost savings, combined with the increased capabilities of the BMW 128i, make it a viable choice for track enthusiasts.

11. The Temptation of a Miata Once Again

Despite the positive experiences with the BMW 128i, the author admits to occasional doubts and the allure of returning to the Mazda Miata. The affordability and low cost of consumables of the Miata make it an enticing option. However, the author remains committed to exploring the full potential of the BMW 128i and expanding their car story with every thrilling track experience.

12. Creating your Own Car Story with Extreme Experience

The Journey to find the perfect track car is a personal one, filled with unique experiences and challenges. While watching car videos on YouTube may entertain and inspire, it is essential to get out of the house and Create your own car story. Extreme Experience offers the opportunity to get behind the wheel of some of the world's most exciting cars and explore over 30 race tracks across the country. As a special offer, they are currently giving away $50,000 to be used towards track experiences and offering 30% off everything on their Website.

Highlights:

• The frustrations of trying to keep up with faster cars on the track
• The ups and downs of owning a Mazda Miata, BMW 135i, and Honda S2000 for track use
• The lightweight and sporty nature of the Toyota 86
• Recognizing the limitations of heavy cars on the track and finding a solution with the BMW 128i
• Upgrading the brakes for improved track performance
• Considering the financial implications and cost savings
• The temptation to return to a Mazda Miata despite the allure of the BMW 128i
• Creating your own car story with Extreme Experience

FAQs:

Q: Which car is the best track car for beginners? A: The best track car for beginners depends on personal preferences and budget. However, popular choices often include the Mazda Miata, Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86, and Honda Civic Type R.

Q: What are the common challenges of heavy cars on the track? A: Heavy cars on the track face challenges such as increased tire wear, higher braking temperatures, decreased agility in turns, and higher consumable costs.

Q: Are track cars expensive to maintain? A: Maintaining a track car can be expensive due to the wear and tear on consumables such as tires, brakes, and suspension components. However, careful research, strategic choices, and leveraging warranty offerings can help manage costs effectively.

Q: What are some key factors to consider when choosing a track car? A: Important factors to consider when choosing a track car include weight, power, handling characteristics, brake performance, availability of aftermarket support, and overall cost of ownership.

Q: How can Extreme Experience enhance the track car experience? A: Extreme Experience offers the opportunity to drive some of the world's most exciting cars on over 30 race tracks across the country. They provide a unique and thrilling experience for enthusiasts to explore the true potential of these cars in a safe and controlled environment.