I'm the former owner of the e36 in my sig. but just totaled it in the recent snow storm anyway I am buying a vert I think I am in to tracking and autocrossing obviously and am I going to be completely bummed with a vert when trying these great sports with it or are they really not that much diferent at all????? or what will I notice most of all??
The frame is weaker as well as significantly heavier. It will probably feel the same but slightly numb and slower.
Some organizations that run DEs and such won't allow convertibles to run unless you have roll protection, 5/6-point harnesses and arm restraints. Either that or factory roll over protection and a factory hard top using factory mounts, etc. At least that's the rule with the local BMW CCA chapter here. According to their "Convertible Rules" page, they apparently derived these rules from the BMW CCA Natioal rules and regulations.
As for auto-x's, our local chapter allows all convertibles to compete without any additional modifications.
So I guess my advise to you is that if you are going to use your vert for strictly auto-x'ing, you should be fine. But if you ever want to go to some DE's, you should check your local car clubs' rules and regulations to make sure you can participate in stock form.
This is all moot if you have the money to make the mods.
thanks guys
Auto-x, you are fine. At DEs they may or may not require roll hoops, depending on the track. Never heard of a DE that required 5 point harnesses and arm restraints, for a convertible or fixed roof car...
Here are the rules for our chapter.
http://www.lscbmwcca.org/motorsports...le%20rules.htm
Just for reference, our chapter (Hoosier) doesn't allow convertibles at all for DE's, even if they have roll hoops.
Simon
Spec E30 #116
Right -- proper roll protection for a convertible resembles a swing set built in the back seat extending nearly six inches above your head in front.Originally posted by simonh
Just for reference, our chapter (Hoosier) doesn't allow convertibles at all for DE's, even if they have roll hoops.
Autox - no worries, track - forget it.
I heard a fellow describing his experience going off in an M Roadster in T3 at Thunderhill. While the roll hoops didn't buckle, and he wasn't seriously hurt, the vivid description of rocks and other crap whacking off his forehead was enough to make up the decision for me!
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