Let's build an autocross car (oong post!)

[IndianaTravis]

So here is the story. When I had my first ti, I wasn't autocrossing. I actually did my first autocross 1 week after I traded my ti for a Z3 back in 2000.

Since them, I've ran B stock in the Z3, STS in a 325Ci, and STX in a Mini Cooper S. Regionally, I was successful in each.

So now I have this '96 ti (active) and it is totally stock. I'm trying to figure out what to do with it, what class to run it in. I know my friend Brook Harmon ran his fairly successfully in DSP, before he destroyed it at Watkins Glen a couple years ago.

My options are:
G stock, STS, and DSP. I don't expect to win championships in any of these classes, but I'd like to be competitive locally.

I'm leaning heavily toward STS as it will allow me to run street tires, and save on the expense of one set of wheels. STS also will allow me to run larger wheels than the stock 15" spokes, and I can work on the suspension.

I don't have unlimited funds (or else this car would already have a six in it!) so we have to come up with reasonably affordable, bang for the buck upgrades.

I'm thinking of going with koni yellows or bilstein sports for the shocks, and probably H&R sport springs. Thoughts? I'm going to do the 'fogged' airbox mod, and eventually come up with something for an exhaust (there aren't any of those bosal systems still around, are there?)

I have no idea what swaybars to go with. I need opinions here.

I also want to do a brake upgrade, so I'm on the lookout for the '98 up vented front rotor setup, or even something more dramatic. Brook had a sweet setup off of an M Coupe on his car, but it really limited his wheel options.

Any and all advice from you folks who have been autocrossing these cars for up to 10 years is GREATLY appreciated!

Remember that this is my daily driver as well when you respond with your thoughts, please.......