Youthful Bravado / 4000q Autozzzz

[GCIRILLO@aol.com]

I monitored the Autocross internet list for several months.  (I had a passing
interest which has, for now, passed.)  

If I can bring some balance to this string, I have two observations:  (1) To
win big in a 4000q is an astounding accomplishment and a testament to skills
and a sound car.  
(2) To think that you can overcome a model's mechanical shortcomings with
prepping and skill at the highest competitive levels is folly.

The results from Nationals and Divisionals read something like:

RX-7 red                           Neon red
RX-7 black                        Neon white
RX-7 black                        Neon blue
RX-7 red                           Neon yellow
RX-7 red                           Neon puke green
Corvette white                   Neon white...........
RX-7 red
Corvette black
Corvette red.................. (you get the idea)

The most common (and totally contradictory) phrases on the autox list are
"It's not the car, its the driver." and "Where can I get an ACR Neon?".
 Truth is, it's the car AND the driver.

To happily compete with a car which is not among the mechanical leaders
(RX-7, Corvette, Neon, MR2, etc), IMHO you should just enjoy the runs (not
expecting all wins), and spend money on hardware that makes your car a better
car, not a better autox machine.  If you must win to have fun, buy the
Neon/RX-7...

PS- By quitting the Autox list, I have found 20-30 minutes extra in my day!
 I may now have time to Autox.  (delete-yes-delete-yes-delete-yes-delete...)

GCirillo
Bethesda MD
1991 90q20V

PPS-  To "90q20V" do not expect neck-snapping acceleration from the 164hp
20V.  Life gets interesting at 4000 - 6500 rpm.  Before that, you may think
you're in your 4000. Great car though.