[truegearhead]

I’ve instructed with probably 4 different clubs but have spend most of my time with NASA. Instructors are unfortunately hit or miss but generally the more you put into it the more engaged you are the better instruction you’ll get. In HPDE 1 the important thing is you have someone who keeps you safe and start to learn the basics which hopefully any instructor can do. As you start to advance you’ll normally find the best instruction at clubs that have actual racing, these clubs attract more serious drivers/instructors. So if you’re local PCA chapter is HPDE only you might want to look for a more serious club as you get better and better.

As far as your car, these cars and their engines are tougher than the internet wants you to think. I ran 5 full seasons of autocross, and then started running HPDEs, went from HPDE 1, then 2, 3, 4, then started instructing, and then time trials. Years and years of track events all on the stock 2.5l with 0 oil modifications or any other modifications. Never had a problem (until I put an accusump on my car... which failed and blew up my motor). Back then I was buying good track pads and getting free “take-offs” (used track tires) at the track. Good luck! Also, make sure you pass the broomstick test with a helmet on.