Thread: FRS Track Build
View Single Post
Old 07-06-2015, 02:17 PM   #4
CSG Mike
 
CSG Mike's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2012
Drives: S2000 CR
Location: Orange County
Posts: 14,564
Thanks: 8,942
Thanked 14,214 Times in 6,856 Posts
Mentioned: 970 Post(s)
Quote:
Originally Posted by smoltz View Post
Started doing HPDE w/ BMWCCA and Porsche (in my Porsche 996 Turbo). I've done about a half dozen events so far. Really enjoying it, but trying to decide if I want to continue with my 911 Turbo or get something that's a little cheaper to run. In looking at vehicles with a lower cost of operation, came across the BRZ\FRS. Seems like it would be a good platform.

If I were to head in this direction, I would buy a new FRS, and then spend 10-15k (parts only) to get it ready for track use, focussed on safety, longevity and performance. I've read a bunch on the forum and have some ideas of my own, but wanted to just put the question out there and see what folks thought, where should I spend my money? In terms of requirements, car will be for use at HPDE for the next few seasons, I need to be able to drive it to the track but likely won't see any extended street use other than that. In general, I'd rather do fewer high quality upgrades and then as budget allows go wider than try and do a million things and cut corners everywhere to hit a price point.
Safety is one of those "all of nothing" situations. If you do all the safety equipment, your street driving safety will be a bit compromised, and for HPDE, I'm of the opinion that a full OEM safety system is quite versatile.

I'd recommend this for your build:

- Roll bar
- OEM belts/seat/airbags
- BBK
- Wheels of your choice to clear the BBK
- Tires of your choice (I'd recommend a compound you're familiar with for your first set, and then try one preferred for this platform)
- Suspension kit that suits your driving style; @Raceseng is fairly close to you and has a lovely Penske setup that will be released soon.
- Rear lower control arms.

If you want to add some more feedback, replace all rubber suspension bushings with solids/sphericals, or add solid inserts.

If you'd like more power, several options are available, but forced induction will take you pretty close to the top of your budget. A nice header and tune will cost less, produce less heat, and have virtually no issues.
CSG Mike is offline   Reply With Quote