I'm trying to decide between these two. I'm going to be installing some suspension parts this spring, and thought I would just autox another year to get used to the car. I would love to do the Midwest NASA events. But I would need to start from square one. Would I be better to go ahead and start nasa this year? Or should i just do autox for another year?

 

There is no rule that says you can't do both.

 

I thought about that. I wouldn't be able to compete this year in NASA. Just trying to see how the whole getting started in the NASA racing program works. Any Midwest or great lakes guys on here?

 

I would do both. :P I do about one track day a year with NASA and the rest with clubs who offer a lot more track time. If you're looking for instruction the best I've had in the area has been with the PCA or NASA.

 

I've done quite a bit of auto-x but HPDE events have got me really interested in NASA. It's just hard as my car isn't setup for it as well as it could be.

 

if you are looking at the NASA route, I wouldn't worry about competing at first. There is a huge difference between AutoX and Track time with traffic, especially with open passing.

I would do both, and try HPDE-1 though 3 with NASA before making any other decisions. Plus in car instruction is incredibly valuable.

 

I know we have spoke before on PM. I would recommend doing some NASA HPDE's to see how you like it compared to auto-X. You have to make it through NASA's HPDE ranks before you are allowed to compete in either TT or W2W. Some get through faster than others depending on your skill, but the biggest thing is being comfortable and safe around traffic. That is something you will learn with NASA and not auto-X.

I'll be at Putnam Park in May with NASA if you want to come check it out. Maybe register for an HPDE especially since it's so close to you. You can catch a ride with me if you want. It's cool to see the speed difference between HPDE guys and TT guys. Most HPDE guys are on street tires and are daily driversand most of the TT guys are running Hoosiers and track prepped cars, not too mention most of them have more experience too. I think you would really enjoy it.