Brad Cox wrote:
> Seems to me it's basically a question of development. Guys
> like Steve H. have been working on their Fiat's for years.
> They've figured out what works and what doesn't, as well as
> learning to get EVERYTHING out of the car while on course. I
> think that a Neon, or a GSR developed to the same extent
> could be quite a competitor.
I agree. In fact I'll go out on a bit of a limb and predict that the GSR is
actually the class sleeper. Furthermore, since there's a gigantic Honda
aftermarket, sorting the car out shouldn't be that tough. Unfortunately, I
don't think I'm a good enough driver to prove it.
> Since the GSR's come loaded, there's a lot of weight that
> could be legally removed. With ALL the tweaks, it could
> probably come in around 2400 lbs (starts at 2600).
Actually, it starts at 2700, but you can get it down to 2600 in stock by
removing the A/C, spare tire, and running the tank empty. That's right, I
run between 1 and 2 gallons. The fuel pump has a sufficient reservoir to
keep the engine supplied even on long turns.
> IMO, a
> GSR might be the one to give the Fiats a run for their money.
> Under SP rules, you can basically turn a GSR into a Type-R,
> and even though the horsies are little, they sure can
> giddy-up. ;-) Integras are able to make good use of that
> super high power band because they're very "rowable" compared
> to a lot of other cars. Beef up the suspension some, and add
> the requisite 'CSP' tires to your 190hp "Type R look-alike",
> and I think we may be looking at another class shuffling. 8-)
Closer to 200hp at the flywheel, but I'm afraid you're still looking at only
about 150 lb-ft of torque. What makes the car so good is the handling. Note
that the STR index is only about half a second off DSP and realize the GSR
is responsible for that number. Yeah, I know, not a national class and all
that, but the consensus is that the STR index is *soft*.
I'm planning on giving it a try next year. Perhaps some national-caliber
driver would care to join me?
Eric Buckley
7STR: 98 Integra GSR
St Louis Region
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