<VV> PW: Early Model Handling

[vairtec at optonline.net]

A Synopsis:

My presentation planned for the recent Performance Workshop was “Early Model Performance Handling.”  It was not “How to Make an Early Model Handle,” because early models do in fact handle very well by design.  Remember, driving enthusiasts embraced the early model from the start.  While the late model of course has an improved suspension design, this does not mean that the early model is a poor-handling car.

If you want to enjoy your early model in a sporting manner, be it autocross or track events or even spirited road driving, it can be as simple as ensuring that all the suspension components are renewed, using quality shocks, and using quality tires.

But my intended presentation for the PW was to highlight the changes and the setups used by a number of persons who use their early models in track events, ranging from Geoff Flynn’s street-legal sedan to Warren LeVeque’s Doug Roe car.  In all, the cars of six owners, with six different approaches to “the hot set-up,” were compiled.  One of them was my own.  None of them is the “right” combination -- everyone must use what works for them.

So I may indeed transcribe my planned remarks to make a Communique article, but not real soon.  The same work-related issues that kept me away from the PW continue to soak up my time.

Thanks, everyone, for your interest.

--Bob