>A Previa is not an acceptable vehicle for Solo II.
>
>--John Kelly
(paraphrased: "Ditto." -- Charlie Davis)
I'm wondering about the grounds for these opinions? I don't particularly
care about the Previa, but let's look at it.
What the (1999) rulebook says:
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3.1 ELIGIBLE VEHICLES
A Solo II Event is open to any vehicle that can pass safety inspection...
except that vehicles with wheelbases exceeding 116 inches may be excluded...
Unstable vehicles with a high center of gravity and a narrow track must be
excluded (e.g. Suzuki Samurai, Jeep CJ series, and GEO Sidekick).
==========================
Vehicle Track Height
Samurai 51.4 65.6
Wrangler 58.0 70.6
Sidekick 55.x 64.3
Previa 61.4 68.7
Camaro 60.6 51.8
Clearly the Previa doesn't have a narrow track compared to anything. High
CG would have to be measured; however of note is that each of the exampled
vehicles are taller than they are wide. The Previa is two inches wider than
tall. It also carries its engine and drivetrain significantly lower than
most vehicles. Its wheelbase is 112.8 inches, the 4x4s range from 80-93.4.
If we intend to exclude all minivans and SUVs, we better say so - the
rulebook quite carefully does not. If there's some more subjective criteria
y'all are using, what is it? I don't have enough experience with non-coupe
cars in autocross to have a valid opinion - I never see them run.
KeS
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