shadow27

In 3 cathegories we run 2 warm up laps, 3 free laps (5 sec interval) and a cool down lap. This was running all over the day so I ran atleast 30 laps on the ~2.7 mile track.
I ran similar times to an S2000 which had an experianced and really smooth driver. I was happy because I could keep up with him on the straights, thanks to my CZ#1 I think
I owertook an EVO IV and a modded Subaru WRX (with all the mods basically an STI ).

The car felt good, brakes were excellent all day! I could get shorter brake distances than the S2000 but had more body roll so my turn in was slower overall.

Got a ride on the S2000 and felt like riding on a blade! The car was more purist, more loud, felt faster than really is. The engine was really screaming which increased the feel of acceleration greatly. Bad that I couldn't sit comfortable at all, that car is damn small inside. I'm 6'2 and just don't fit in.

The S02-s on the S2000 give a definite advantage to the S2000 over the RE40-s on my car. During braking it really feels how easy the brakes owercome the weak adhesion this tyres can give (ABS kicks in at 100 mph instantly).

Based on this my next mods 'll be:
- better tyres (I'm a GoodYear Eagle F1 believer)
- MazdaSpeed sway bars
- coilovers in the future

Spin9k

Sounds like a blast! Wow 30 laps ... you musta had this :D on permanently!

mmmdowning

Wow, sounds like you had a blast. Sounds like alot of fun.

Viatovao

If you really want to go much faster get the Michelin Pilot Sport, they are a good R comp tyre. Or if you want to save money go just a little bit slower but have a better street tyre buy the Toyo RA1. I guarantee you that the Toyo RA1 are much much better than the Goodyear.

As for the bodyroll I think you are absolutely right, the car has a little bit of it, also if you could dial more negative camber that would be great, an 1/8 of toe out in the front should help it turn in.

Also one of the mods I would consider if you are going to do this alot is brake pads.

Which track did you go to? Sound like England or at least outside the US. In the US or at least East coast all the track forbid the S2000 since it does not offer alot of rollover protection, unless it has a rollbar or cage. Great Car but I wish they would comeout with a coupe kind of version and give it some roof integrity.

Have fun

shadow27

Viatovao, You're right, was an Fomula 1 track in Europe!

Thanks for the advice on the tyres, I consider the Pilots but am not 100% sure they worth nearly double the price. Sure if price mattars wahat am I doing on the track at all

NotTwinTurboYet

Hi Viatovao,

As you have the great chance to live in the USA, try the Pirelli P0 Corsa. You can order them on http://www.tirerack.com for half the price we buy them in Europe!!! Go there:
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....el=PZero+Corsa
We, all, here in Europe, use these tyres since 2 years on our Porsche for the track days. They are very good for that! They can resist to 6 track days! They give you an incredible grip, and they improve both handling and braking!
However, the treadwear is only 60, so don't expect the Corsa to have a long life if you use them on road!
See you guys, and enjoy your RX8, lucky guys you are :-)
NTTY

Seenitall

S27: Dont know how serious you are about racing-if you are in stock class the ultimate is a set of shaved DOT approved tires strictly for racing. When I Autoxed, I used shaved CompTA R1 on their own rims. On a racetrack, tires with full tread depth are subject to VERY severe wear. Tires shaved to 3/32 inch tread depth will be WAY faster and last longer than full tread tires..

takahashi

I agree that with you 110%!!!

soundzero

Hey shadow27,

In this day and age of "GO FAST STRAIGHT" "0-60", "1/4miles" bs is rampant, you had given yourself and your car a proper chance to push your ability and the car to the limit by attending road track event. That is where your car belongs. Not on drag strip, not on street racing scene. I command you for it! Everything else is so dissimal compared to road race.

I currently own 03 S2000 and as you described it, it is a razor sharp blade around track. Only reason I opted for S2000 is because I wanted the car for the longest time. I give great respect for Rx8. I think it is a phenomenal car. As you realized, tire and proper suspension could shave seconds off of your track time.

About a month ago I was in Mid-Ohio race track event with fellow S2000 owners. There were couple of 350zs and Evo VIII. I had no problem pulling away from them around the track.

I hope the track event made you a better driver. It certainly has for me and I am looking for more future events.

All the best!

SDFLY

Where is King Troll to dispute these findings????? Shadow, I'm jealous, sounds like a blast!

takahashi

Compare with S2K the RX8 has a lot of sway, therefore the stronger sway and strut bar is vital. The brake is actually better than the S2K... stock. Once the brake pad in for S2K - the car will stop better as it is better balance and lighter.

To your comment about the car last longer --- not for me!! My wife is pregnant with our first one and no way baby Taka is sitting in the boot :D

Wish I still single ---- j/k :D

Ophitoxaemia

could you tell if you were you able to keep up with the S2000's on the straights because of exiting the corner a little faster or because of the motor? the re040's really dont work well once they get too hot- dont know about the s02's.

james