Hi. My name is Richard Grayson and I'm considering taking the plunge into
vintage racing. In particular, I'm looking at Formula Ford. This class
appeals to me because:
They're light....so my Toyota Previa van should be able to tow one.
They're simple and accessible....so maintenance/repairs/tuning should be
easier.
They're designed for racing, without any "street car" non-necessities.
They're very responsive.
What are the disadvantages? I can think of:
They're more expensive to purchase than Spridgets/Coopers/Spitfires. (My
2nd choice of class.)
They offer little crash protection. Is it true that drivers in this class
are more wary of contact?
Fewer cars in class at each event?
Fewer events to run in? I'd like to stay within a day's drive of Georgia.
My plan is to do more research and perhaps buy a car in the next 12 months.
Part of my research will be to check out the Challenge at Road America in
July, and also to attend a 2 day class at Skip Barber to experience a
formula car. To date my track experience is a 2 day Intro to Road Racing at
Road Atlanta, and 6 Porsche Club Drivers Ed events at Road Atlanta and
Roebling Road.
My daily driver for the last 5 years has been my old reliable '85 Porsche
911. Over the years I've modified it for the track, to the extent that it
is no longer comfortable for street use. But, I'm not interested in the
investment to get into Club Racing or even vintage racing with an older 911
or 356. (Dollars plus big tow vehicle, etc.)
I've heard a reference to a Formula Ford guide of some sort that compares
the pros/cons of the various makes. Undoubtedly out of print. Does anyone
know of this guide? Any recommendations for good "beginner" cars?
This might be a dumb question. but what is the origin of the 1972 "cut off"
year for many vintage cars? As time marches on, will this date ever move?
Finally, what's the trend for participation in vintage F. Ford? Is it
declining? Steady? Increasing? If it's declining, are there particular
classes that folks are shifting too? I'd hate to get into this and 5 years
down the road find out that no one else wants to play!
Thanks in advance for responses!
Richard
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