Re: Oh no, not a SATURN !!!, GS-Rs and a roll at the Glen

[Bill Bauman <flewbyu@xxxxxxxxxx>]

>Chris,
>Do you realize all the flames you have just opened yourself up to?  Here
we go
>again.  Do yourself a favor and dont get the Plastic GM Wonder Car.  IF you
>only want to spend around 20k, try the Integra GS-R, the new Civic Si (160hp
>VTEC), or try LEASING a new bimmer for about the same payment as a buy.  Good
>Luck.
>Dave
>98 M3/4

FWIW, I just got back from my 1st driver's school at the Glen, and my
instructor had an Integra 
GS-R with R1s and carbon fiber bake pads. No other mods. I went for a ride
with him.

We were on the track in the instructor group, with various P cars, two F355
Competitions, and of course, many Ms. I have never in my life been so
amazed by what a driver can do. Of course we didn't have the HP to keep
with the big boys, but in the turns, we were right there. In order to get
through the Outer Loop, he would lift off the throttle to start to bring
the rear around, and then hammer the gas again. This was done repeatedly,
while making steering adjustments, and believe it or not, felt quite
smooooth. I was quite impressed, to say the least. It really shows how the
driver is the most important item in the equation (but then, we all knew
that already, right?  :-)  )

Oh yeah, someone rolled a Civic. Sees he was passing a P car going down the
front straight, and the P car wouldn't lift, or not soon enough, anyway. He
got past him, but had too much speed going into the turn, and spun. He then
proceeded to leave the track, while spinning, and hit a gravel trap. Hence
the roll. Both driver and instructor were unscathed. The car (at least if I
were an insurance adjuster) would have to be considered totaled. I must
admit, I was surprised that the roof held up pretty well, though. Had to
give the guy in the Civic credit, as he took full responsibility, even
though the guy in the P car should have slowed (once he gives the signal,
the driver being passed has the responsibility to ensure the safety of the
pass, for those of you who haven't been to a school.) I'm sure this will
start a discussion.

Bill Bauman
'97 328is w/sport pkg and one driver's school
BMW CCA 150616
Genesee Valley Chapter
 

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