Handling physics: 240 style

[PearlBlueSoul]

Ok, I'm a complete newbie to this whole 240 scene. Watched it from the outside for numerous years and different people driving them, but it's only been now that I've considered buying one.

I'm looking into getting more heavily involved in racing and trying to build a career out of it somehow. Long shot, yeah, I know. In the process of trying to find a good track car I was told the 240Z was a good base for potential. I had heard in the past that 240s could generate substantial amounts of power, so that goes without asking. BUT, I was never told about their handling ability stock.

Aftermarket I generally assume to be 200% better than stock, but I'm more concerned with how well it's gonna perform in the months prior to me being able to upgrade it. While doubtful I'll get to do much to it at the initial purchase (also picking up a 250cc motorcycle. not cheep) I will be driving it on whatever condition it's in at that time.

Basically, is this car tail happy/neutral/understeers like a pig/what? Does it do well in a canyon run (for spirited weekend drives) or should I not attempt this before I can upgrade it a bit? How does it transition in corners, and does it brake fairly well?

These are just a few things I ask myself when I'm considering a car and what I expect from it. So, any info? Objectivity versus opinion is appreciated, but I totally understand the loyalty developed to a certain car that "fits you." ;) the car on my homepage was like that with me.

Thanks!

[shock96]

Ok, here are my observations about the Z and comparisons to other cars of similar size.

I find the 240Z an excellent basis for a BUDGET racer/street machine. The suspension is very simple and very strong. It is easy to modify and reacts very well to coilovers and such.

The structure of the 240 leaves a bit to be desired. It is a flexible chassis made of some thin sheetmetal and it needs to be reinforced (IE: Cage).

The steering is rack and pinion and it is very tough and very quick (IMHO). The short steering knuckles are nice, but not necessary.

The weak point on the Z is the brakes. They can survive, but be ready to go thru pads and rotors.

I am a big guy, but the Z fits pretty well in the leg department, but the shoulder room is a bit tight.

Engine is bulletproof, even stock it takes a bunch to really blow it up.


My other experiences on the track include the Porsche 911 and BMW 325 (E30). They are as follows:

Porsche 911. Best basis for a race car if you want to make the big time. This is strictly an observation based on support and the motivation of the Porsche group. You see, amateur PCA race guys that are decent get asked to drive in the Rolex 24 and Le Mans. You don't see the Nissan guys doing that.

If you are a great driver in a Z, that is what you will be. If you are a great driver in a 911, you have a chance at a few rides and more exposure. The Z guys have no backing really. They are the budget guys that have fun, but get whipped by the $60,000 GT2/EIP/SPM cars. Don't get me wrong, I love my Z and I feel that I will be a threat to the 911 guys at the PCA events I will be attending, but I am expecting to get my ass handed to me by some well prepped early 911's in RS trim. They are faster than snot in the desert around a race track.

There is really nothing quite like a well done 911 on the track. 2200 lbs fighting weight, 240hp and brakes that are stronger than anything Nissan ever came out with. You might make the power (should get close), but you will never outbrake a 911 in a stock class. They can carry 10mph more into the turn and apex much later. And the engines make more torque than the Z, so they carry that speed on the exit. Handling is crisp and steady. Oversteer is a wonderful thing taken in moderation. Early 911's (1971 to 73) are a great car all the way around. But they are expensive to build. I figure that I will have about 1/2 of what I would have into a 911 in my Z. I expect to be slower though. We will see.


My buddy is currently racing a 1991 BMW 325IS in EIP and SPM in conference racing. It is built to the max and it is a very fast car. The engine makes similar power to the Z. The rear suspension is more sophisicated and the brakes are better. The car gets down to about 2600lbs in fighting weight so the Z has it a little easier. The BMW club takes it's racing easy. It is not as competitive as PCA (not by a long shot. Lots of type A's in PCA) so consequently you will have less exposure. The 325's are not very competitive anymore as the E36 chassis is now used. If you managed to win some Nationals in a E30 325, you would get some attention.


I hate to say it, but the fastest way to becoming a professional race car driver is to go the NASCAR route and change your name to Buck Futz and live in North Carolina. There is a proven stepping stone method to their madness and if you can stand hanging lefts all the time you might have a chance. It has many more sponsership opportunities than any other type of racing. It is not to expensive to run at first either. If you make it in NASCAR, you could then make a move to IMSA or something like that.

Mike

[PearlBlueSoul]

Herm....very well thought out. Sorta missed what I was asking for but I did get alot of info that I didn't expect. Thanks for the writeup on the cars you mentioned. Didn't know the porsche group was that tightly knit. Knew they were well known for being a unified club but not to that level.

Don't spose you could answer my other questions about handling perhaps (on a side note?). I don't think I'd be able to afford a porsche for a good while yet. much to my dismay...:ermm:

[Zvoiture]

What's PCA? I'm used to hearing about POA around here...

steve77