Supercharger - Imagine Auto

[pecivil]

Hey Jim!
Sounds like you have quite a lot of track experience and I don't, so I would not presume to disagree with you. Your observations actually remind me of the original BMW M3, a 4 cyl. with only 192hp, but definitely a momentum type of race car, that won everything against higher hp cars. The shop that I take my car to and is doing the engine swap does race a boxster in the spec racing series, and they are very good drivers who also race a GT-3 and a 993 race car. They tell me that in their boxster, they have no trouble keeping up with and beating 911's, including GT-3's, through the turns, but can't keep up on the straights. Which makes sense, a lighter, mid engined car should be faster through the turns than a heavy rear engined car with equal driver abilities.

[Sammy]

I still believe that the laws of physics support mid-engine vehicles. I don't see anyway that you can obtain a better balance and shift of weight (weight distribution sitting still doesn't tell the whole story) than having the large engine mass between the axles. Ferarri has done it for years and has been the most prominent "production" benchmark. Even the latest Ford GT has a "mid-engine" set up and it's kickin' some booty at least in magazine tests.

I'm sure the older Elan has some great handling characteristics but was still referred to as a mid-engine vehicle.

I will agree that there have been some great handling vehicles out there but with all things being equal I just don't see how a mid-engine vehicle wouldn't come out on top? Ferarri, Acura, Saleen, etc are all part of this group and I believe they have both power and handling (too bad only Ferarri has the drop top but then again, I can't afford it anyway). The Boxster just happens to be the most affordable (maybe the MR2 should be thrown in here but the visual appeal isn't there for me). I wonder how much you can tune a MR2?

We all know that in taking corners you can slow down faster than you can speed up which is why the extra HP and torque would be nice in pulling out of turns. I don't think looking for extra power is an unreasonable request even if it is pricey.

Of course, I'm not talking about ovals and drag strips because at that point I would agree, buy a different car. I am talking about racing on road courses/autocrosses/twisties/curvy/tracks.

BTW - MNBoxster, I mean all of this in the best of manner for the sake of debate. I look forward to and appreciate your comments and opinions.

Best Regards,
Sammy