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Comments
just zx2 driving enthusiasts here, "sunday drivers" mostly. the racers seem to have migrated elsewhere: zx2list@yahoogroups.com a mailing list,
zx2racing.com
and zx2.com
I think you've answered your own question, which is the grippier tires should be on the front if you're going to drag.
The only other thing I've gathered from those who race is to take every little piece of crap that's not screwed in/bolted on out of your car. That includes floor mats, spare tire, trunk mat, etc. Anything to make it lighter.
See this post:
http://pub34.ezboard.com/fzx2racingfrm6.showMessage?topicID=80.topic
As to what to do re. gear shifting on an ATX, I've read responses from people that either:
- recommend manual shifting
- don't recommend manual shifting and just put the pedal to the metal
There is no consensus.
The Zetec engine apparently performs best on a cool day (cold air is denser?), with mild humidity.
Warm up, but don't overheat the engine before doing your run.
I'm not trying to start any arguments about it, this is just opinion, and I am just wondering,
but I'm trying to figure out the fun of drag racing a 130 hp automatic car down an 1/8 mile track. You will still be going slow enough that you can accomplish this on many aves and and still be driving legal speeds. I see these little buggers as best for low speed racing like auto-x, or even rally. All you need is some shocks and struts and you have a good competitor for these events. Just wondering.
Anyway, someone can correct me if I am mistaken, but I believe switching the gears on your auto will likely cause swift deterioration in your tranny, which will of course cost you some decent bucks in the not so distant future.
Along the same lines, it would be smart not to waste to much cash on tires, especially if you plan to go through them quickly. (though anything is better then the factorys) After a certain point this car, like all the others in the class, will just never use their potential.
Lastly, other then lightening the car as mentioned already, other mods for straight line racing would be pointless unless you begin to add horsepower. And I mean real horsepower with turbo or nitrous, not a juice can muffler and a chip.
As for drag racing, I don't understand it. It's all about reaction time and consistency and I can appreciate the skills, but why not just wire a couple of guys up to a computer, have them stomp a switch when the light flashes and see who has the faster reactions. Of course my drag racing friends can't understand NASCAR racing. They can't understand the physics envolved in getting one of those sleds through a turn.
Drag racing these cars in standard can be fun because it does take the better shifter to win.
I like turns as well as straights. And I don't think high-banked ovals with only left turns (or right turns) is much fun, just scarey.
It takes time and money to get that drivers certification though. Not this year, but maybe next I will check out the Summit Point raceway and do their Friday at the Track thing to get track time and eventually qualify.
One of my friends races his BMW 2000, an old car but he has a lot of fun with it. It is not modified at all, but does run race slicks and all unnecessary [non-permissible content removed] has been thrown out of the car like passenger seats, carpeting, etc.
It's also lowered, and some heavy duty suspension pieces.
And it is not street-legal as I think there is no catalytic converter, just a straight through pipe.
So he takes it on a trailer with two sets of tire spares pulled by his Suburban full of mechanical parts.
Not a cheap hobby!
Auto-X would probably be a lot cheaper, eh?
It is slightly stupid. All cars use the same chassis with the same wheelbase and the same Chevy OHV engine. The only differences allowed:
- suspension, exterior shape and tires.
And the driver of course.
So no wonder they're all going at the same speed and the only way to beat another car is to push it out of the way.
Plus it's optimized for grandstand viewing, racing run on an oval so that the fans can see everything. The more crashes, the more they like it.
It's got nothing to do with proving technology, nor proving which manufacturer is better.
Oh well, just not my cup of tea.
I agree that NASCAR rules were setup with two things in mind. Maintaining close racing to keep the fans from getting bored, and keeping the cars cheap. It is definirely anti technology racing. Technology has a tendency to kill racing. When you allow onboard computers to conrol pressurized engines with gee whiz transmissions plus sophisticated composites and alloys in the structure, it doesn't take long before nobody can afford to compete but the manufacturers. Thats what killed sports car racing a while back. The rebirth of sports car racing is a result of NASCAR thinking that will keep it cheap enough for privateers.
Oval racing is an American tradition that predates Indianapolis. Its largest spectator sport in America. Midgets, sprints, outlaws, modifieds, arca, bush, winston, ussac, etc, etc.
I can't remember who it was, but an Indy driver decades ago, when asked the secret of his win said that you have to go into the turns at 140 mph. If you go in at 139 and a half, you loose the race and if you go in at 140 an a half, you hit the wall.
Nothing stupid about it at all and I guarantee you the fans don't go to see the crashes. In fact that statement really rubs a lot of people the wrong way.
First I am hardly and expert on racing.
However Ricks opinions seem to be a more technical match of my own. Though I can appreciate the skill required to handle these cars at speed.
Drag Racing is to my limited understanding just a battle of speed. The fellow with the fastest car within a certain loose category wins.
Formula One racing is something I don't understand beyond the obvious.
Again just an UN-educated opinion...
Though it's not directly related to racing. I have always wanted to take one of those High Speed Evasive driving courses. The ones where they put you through the cars paces fully.
On a totally unrelated note... I saw a heavliy modified version of my old Accura Integra. I was actually rather difficult to tell what year the car was originaly. Even the dash had been altered to something totally different.
Tell you what though ZX2ers. Aren't we all glad the ZX2 didn't come with Firestone tires?
you might be interested in these courses:
http://www.bsr-inc.com/index.html
They're not cheap at least not to me. The one day Advanced Driver Training is $450.
Which I would think is prereq to doing the $185 Friday At The Track.
And their Police Driving is a series of these courses, with one of those in Emergency driving.
Andrew, why don't you try Autocross. It's a hoot and you lean a lot in just a few weekends. And if you want a better understanding of NASCAR, find somebody that's heavy into the NASCAR sims. The physics in the latest version of Papyrus' NASCAR software are very accurate. Even some of the pro's use it from time to time. I used to race online with Dale Earnhardt Jr occassionally.
A number of years ago, I took a one day course covering such things as blow outs, wet roads spin recovery and similar things. It was quite interesting and though I learned a lot. There is however only so much you can crunch into a single day. We only had about 5 hours track time and much of that was spent watching others from the sidelines, or in a chase car watching others. However one thing it did though quite well was to wet my appetite for more.
Ralex, I haven't heard that angle on the Firestone versus Ford battle. I do know that in my Acura Integra, and also further back in my past when I owned a Toyota Pick up. Two different tire dealers advised me against buying Firestone. To be fair though I don't remember what the concerns where, and I certainly don't recall anything to do with blowouts.
As for the Ford Expedition...
I have only driven one, and that was only briefly. The gripe that I had at the time was how soft the suspension felt compared to my Toyota SR5 4x4. In my Toyota you could feel every pebble in the road, versus the Expedition it seemed a little soft, and overly pampered. Which I suppose should be no surprise given the market that it is aimed at. I wouldn't mind having one for carrying large boxes, utility based uses, or maybe as a vacation cruiser. However day to day driving forget it! Give me something small, nimble, fast, and reasonably sporty every time. I don't mind some creature comforts, arguable more so than most of our fellow ZX2ers. However when cars get too soft on the luxuries, I think it becomes a driving hazard it's own right. People get lazy, and I might say even sleepy with there driving habits. This is to say nothing of the horrible fuel economy they get. Just my opinion though...
Though if I was wealthy I might own an Expedition or a Navigator (I know it's technically a Lincoln), and perhaps even have a Mustang Cobra in garage. At the moment odds are good I wouldn't own any of the current Ford range. None of them leap out at me as a really desirable car/truck. Granted I do love my ZX2 and wouldn't trade it for anything.
As strange as it may seem I believe a car has to have character to fit me. Like my old Accura, and my even my first car a 1976 Datsun B-210 Honeybee. All these cars where sligtly quirky (a technical automotive term, look it up!) a touch underpowered, small without much space, BUT first and foremost fun to drive. Other cars I have owned such as my Mazda GLC, , my Toyota Tercel, the Toyota Truck I keep mentioning, a Mini Metro I had in England where all good cars. In some instances such as with my Truck, I would even go so far as to say where damnable usefull. However when it came time for me to move forward, I barely even looked back at what I was giving up.
Driving simulators...
Though I played with them in CompUsa and Microcenter. None of the current games really leap out at me as something I would like to own. Mostly because they don't convey "the feel of the road" very well. Granted they are very accurate in so far as the physics and graphics are concerned. But they just "don't do it for me".
Additionaly the online gaming experience is something that also "never clicked with me".
I have 14 days of DSL left before I go back to the pathetic 28 dial up conection. God am I going to miss this.
No one should ever suggest or hint that driving in large ovals on race track is easy. In addition to the obvious dangers of other cars. Handling a car at close 200mph even on a straight away is difficult enough. I have driven at speeds as high as hundred mph in the past and that is rough enough. Let alone where there is several dozen others drivers all hell bent on preventing you from getting out in front. The skill of a race car driver is something should be envied and not underestimated. In Nascar what makes it so boring to me is that all the cars are so similar. Beyond the colours there is really isn't anything to distinguish the cars apart. In one sense it reminds me of a Chess Game. It is more a game of indivdual skill than anything else. To a specator lay person like myself it can get boring. On the other hand someone who perhaps a little better versed in the intricasies of race car driving, would find it gripping.
Also I did a weird test drive in a Ford Aspire today. THough from a handling perspective I couldn't stand it. I was wondering if it full fill my desire for a cheap under $5000 econo box wagon or hatchback. So I took along that monitor box (that caused me so much grief a couple weeks back (without the monitor and being carefull to put the cell phone on my belt). The salesman thought I was nuts, when I explanined to him what I wanted to do. Amazingly enough it did fit the bill, though only barely. I actaully think it may not be bad idea in a few months. However it seems somehow ludicrous to spend several thousand dollars just in case. Still it has happened several times now, so maybe it isn't such a wierd idea. I will certainly have to re-explore my options in a few months when my credit card bill is paid down.
Andrew, whats "the monitor?" I also have to wonder why you are wanting a "beater" car.
I like having the 106 mph speed limiter because it keeps me in check ;-)
As for racing, I still have plans to take up auto-x because its low speeds are safe yet it is still a ton of fun. Due to a busy summer and financial reasons I can't do it this year, so I won't have a chance to try it in my Z, which I would have liked.
A joystick versus wheel... Obviously they wheel and pedals would be superior. However there is no way I could justify that expence. There again I don't play very many games on the Pc. As for higher end input devices, for my second Pc I am having justifying the purchase of Logitech Track ball for my second Pc. Let alone getting an exotic game input device. The Joystick I currently own is Gravis Blackhawk that I purchased several years ago. Though it is plugged in, and programmed I think I have used twice on my new Pc. I quite literally sits gathering dust on the desk. I would rather spend my entertainment money shooting (with a camera) or perhaps every once in a very long while a date.
I went out with a martial experts the other week after agreeing to help her with a course. We end up sparing for about 1/2 an hour and damn if that girl wasn't fast. I came out the winner but it was more from experience and my use of NON-conventional skills. For every punch I threw she could land 4. Rather humbling for the old male ego to be sure, but it was a lot of fun. After the afternoons entertainment on the matts. We had a nice dinner at a local restraunt. I don't think I will be seeing her again. However it was great fun; even if I still have several serious bruises that haven't healed completely.
Speed Limits... Grumble as we may and though I am favour of higher speeds on the open highway. PArt of the reason the police enforce the limits is to protect people. Freddy you may know what you are doing, Ralex may know what he is doing, even I am reasonably skilled enough to handle a car 100+Mph. However can you imagine some silly cow in a Suburban doing her make up, chatting on the cell and topping 100mph? The thought terrifies me!!! Added to which despite how reckless some kids maybe on the road, the speed limit does slow down quite a few.
Funny thought try driving that Aspire I mentioned at those speeds? That thing would shake apart!!
I'm in the same boat with lack of space. I need to grab up an old pick up somewhere, but hate to spend the bucks. Need to buy tires for the Z this month. That looks like about a 350 dollar shot.
Have to admit, the cops keep me legal. Don't want a ticket. I think that's why I like tight twisty Oazrk roads. You can really lean on the car and keep it under 60. Almost like cross country auto cross.
Speed Limits...
Can you imagine my insurance right now if I picked up a ticket? Thanks but no, 60mph is as high as a I go.
$350 a Tire... Ouch!!! Thank god I am not there yet. Still that time will come soon enough. For the moment I am just going for an oil change and rotation. What are you planing on getting?
The oldie...
I too have thought of a Pick up truck. Sadly around here most of the pick ups under $5k, seem to be very badly ragged out. My objective would be to get something cheap, but running, that I am not ashamed to park outside my apartment. I also don't want to be worrying if it will start or have some super service just over the horizon. I have already inquired about liabilty only insurance with my carrier. They quoted me about $30 per month extra, or $60 per month with a basic, but high deductable. Last years misdaventures will be haunting me for about 3 years. Oh well when I get my credit card debit down by a few hundred dollars more, perhaps I can get serious...
If and when I do bite; one thing I will be doing is having the junker checked out valve stems to fuel injectors, seat belts to bumpers just before, and just after I sign. This includes such items as the timing belt, pistons, seat belts, brakes, steering wheel linkages, CV Boots, joints, door hinges, and the transmision (or gear box and clutch). Basically everything that can be checked would be checked. Granted such a detailed check out would cost a couple hundred, and take a couple days, but I think it would be worth it. This way I wouldn't have to worry about repair issues coming out to haunt me several months later.
Funny thing...
On that Aspire I drove, on my brief inspection I found 3 safety issues that had been overlooked. The most glaring was the seat belt, which had the red lettered "Replace Tag when visible" tag showing. The other was a split in the rear bumber cover that had been caused by an impact at about dead center in the bumper. While the third and most minor was a slightly loose front seat (easily corrected by a socket wrench). The kid was amazed by my powers of observation, but any twit with some eyes, and a touch of cynical in his nature. Could have, would have and should have spotted the problems. So much for the vaunted CarMax assurances of how well they check out cars.
The $350 is for the set, not just one.
This weekend I kept up speeds of 80-90 mph. I tried not to but the roads to where I went are windy, yet not tight, so it takes some speed to really enjoy them. I didn't see a cop but my buddy who drove up at a different time got, on top of a speeding ticket, his radar detecter confiscated and a fine for having it in the first place. Not a good weekend for him, I hope my luck holds true!
F-1s do not cost that much.
You guessed it, he rear ended them rather badly. The impact knocked their Izuzu Trooper into a another truck, which then hit a small sports coupe. Here is the realy funny coincidence. The sports coupe whos rear end got squashed was a Red Ford ZX2!!!
Thank what ever gods there are both my mum and dad, are okay. The paremedics checked them both out at the scene and declared them fit for travel. Though by the sounds of things the trooper is a right off. As is the case other three cars.
Christ what a day of worry it is has been for me. All being well they should be arriving home in several hours. For obvious reasons I won't be able to sleep until they get here.
Well my mother is in mild shock and my dad is a little shaky. However after surviving the impact and then driving for about 400 miles it is to be expected. Though I haven't seen it, the twit was cited. However the charges I am unsure of. The main thing is that they are safe, and at this moment sleeping soundly in my guest bedroom.
It is further proof though of the hazards of using cell phones while driving.
One thing you have to love about CarMax is the ease and no hassle approach to car shopping.
For instance today I was frustrated, and needed a break from several projects. So I wondered over there and went for a spin in a 1998 Camaro (it's only about 2 miles from my apartment). Strange how this car, and the Mustang are to me the classic Muscle Cars. Granted I could never afford the maintence on a Camaro, let alone the insurance; however that was a certainly a pleasent little drive. I dare say I even prefered it the Mustang. Certainly in many ways the GM is more refined than the Ford. I wasn't too crazy about the wierd gear shift knob. However that could be easily corrected. Such a lovely minor fantasy...
Oh well I suppose I had better stick to reality, and continue searching for ways to afford what Ralex calls "a Beater".
I also have to try and help my Dad figure out what he is going to be driving. This is of course once we figure out what the Insurance is going to do for him...
I did a total wax and polish job on my ZX2 yesterday. Damn is it nice looking car when it's cleaned up.
One thing that bothers me is the electric power steering. BMW says it's less drag on the motor. It's probably reliable enough, but it the car had been built right it wouldn't need power steering. Then factor in the price of 21,000 to 30,000 for the S model and you have an overweight, overpriced econobox with few outstanding qualities. It simply trades on the withering love of us old geezers for a car from the fifties whose low price, small size, and light weight reflected it's clever engineering. I think BMW missed an opportunity with their rights to the Mini, but of course they will still sell like hot cakes - but none for me thanks.
Yup, the old Z looks pretty good to me right now. It may not have electric geewhiz German steering or a supercharger, but Ford kept the weight down, the chassis is pretty good, and though a little vague, aftermarket tires and a cheap set of Eibachs bring the handling to respectable levels. And we're only talking 14,000 bucks or less. Folks, I think the ZX2 is closer to the old Mini than BMW's new status symbol. In fact mine is even the right shade of green . . . . maybe if I paint the roof white. . . . .
For a shall we say, "a mature lady" my wife has very young tastes in cars. Sport sedans, coupes and roadsters are her type of cars.
Anyway, I've been looking @ some 2001 ZX2's. They are really dealing @ Ford. Selling @ invoice + the $1500 cash back and I have about $1000 left on the Citibank card. My problem is that all the inventory @ this particular dealer were built amywhere from 8 to9 months ago. Been sitting on that dealer's lot ALL that time I guess. Do you ZXers feel that this is any good reason NOT to buy one of these cars ? They all have less than 25 miles or so. Just have not moved for some reason. Good colors, nice equipment etc. it bothers me a little that they have been "roasting" out in this Florida sun all that time. What do you think ?
Comments ASAP as I have but one week to "do the deed"
Floridian
Comments please
Floridian
MjC
(price includes duct tape)
what does she think of the noise?
most women I know don't like the racket. seems to be a male-only idea that more noise means closer to sports car feeling.
wouldn't she prefer a Sebring convertible?
of course that would double the cost.
It's HER money so I guess she'll be parking it in the carport next to the Boxter .
Floridian
Our Hyundai dealer has a neat trick. He starts the Tib, opens the hood and lays his ballpoint pen on top of the engine and it just sits there - doesn't dance or jitter, much less fall off. Then he reaches through the window and turns the A/C on and there is still not enough vibration to knock the pen off. Try that with a Ford.
Isn't there a V-6 Tib just around the corner (2002)? Hyundai is doing a lot of things right. Ford on the other hand, pretty much sucks. Of course that's jut my opinion and most reasonable people agree with me. lol
These cars are very close and it is the small differences that make you choose one or the other. The odd thing is that when I priced the two out with the same options, only the Tib had a CD, the tib was about 500 bucks more- basically the same price. My girlfriend now has a Tib and I drive it somtimes - an auto unfortunately. Certainly not a bad car, and superior to the Z in some ways, most notibly to me are the brakes, but I'm always happy to get back in my Z and never once did I think I made the wrong choice.
All though I have admitted in another thread that If the Celica GT was out when I got mine I would have paid the little bit more for it.
I kept up with the Tiburon topic for a little while and was amazed at the number of happy owners. Although some people don't like it, and many won't even consider the Hyundai as an option, Hyundai really broke some ground with this one. I think in terms of quality and reliability the Korean companies may have just about caught up to the Americans in the econo car market.
Floridian