I've been running my Integra GSR in a local autoX class and having a pretty good time. The ruleset is a good bit less restrictive than SCCA rulesets, with the local classes being mostly dictated by drivetrain type and power-to-weight ratio (which makes for a fun class!). I've been shocked at how well my "heavy" Integra GSR is doing compared to several of the much lighter CRX's (some with B-series motor swaps). I'm essentially running a few tenths behind a couple local leaders in CRX's (0.2 to 0.9 seconds slower, depending) and I'm considering flushing money down the toilet in order to obtain cheap plastic trophies.
I know the answer is always to drive faster. I'm working on that. In the meantime, I'm not above giving the car a bit of a helping hand.
My current suspension setup is pretty mild: I'm running a set of OEM Integra Type R springs (250/250 lbs/in springs, with the rears being progressive) mounted to a simple set of OTS Koni yellows. With the shocks around 75% stiff, on the street, I would refer to this setup as just about perfect. Just firm enough to be playful and give a good sense of control, but compliant enough to soak up many miles without wearing me out. I also love the current balance of the car- I'm running a Progressive 22mm rear sway bar (same diameter as OEM Type R) and full Hardrace hardened rubber bushings at all corners. The car rotates nicely, hiding it's FWD nature well and with some camber (via Hardrace arms), it's a very fun car on a canyon road, or even just around town! I also own an AP2 S2000 and refer to the Integra as feeling like "a FWD S2000".
At an autoX, the car is very well balanced and easy to drive... but even with the shocks at full stiff, there's a bit of roll and the transitions could be a bit quicker. I'm thinking about spending money (likely in the direction of Fortune Auto 500 or 510's) to reduce body roll. I have been considering spring rates in the 500/450 range. I know some people go much higher, but I think this is likely about the highest I'm willing to go on a car that will still see street time.
My question is: before I go burning through cash, how much of a difference will I likely see on an autoX course? Does anyone have any direct before/after comparisons when making a similar switch?
I'm at the point where I'm trying to figure out if I can justify the cost to myself. If it's likely to only pick up a tenth or 2, I'll likely save my money, but for 0.5+ seconds, there's a good chance I can justify the cost to myself. I know there's no exact way to determine how much (if any) time will be saved making the switch, as there are too many factors, but I'm looking for similar experiences from GRM'ers, to gain a rough idea on what I should reasonably be able to expect. Any insight or experience is greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance!