jstevens1
03-17-2003, 06:56 PM
:wtf: Has anyone else out there compared autocrossing an SVTF to a ZX3 or other Focus? This weekend was my first AutoX in the SVTF, and I gotta tell ya, I was not rewarded with the experience I expected.
Don't get me wrong, this is a great car. But it left me almost wanting my old ZX3 back, at least for AutoX. The SVTF felt REALLY heavy, compared to the ZX3. The tires, while better than the old 'Screamin' Eagles', still didn't hang-on like the magazines would have me think they should. And the open differential REALLY showed, slowing me down considerably.
To its credit, though, the SVTF DID have some strong points. The extra power made me finally feel like I belonged on an AutoX. The extra bulk didn't slow me down THAT much; I still noticed the power gain over a ZX3, and it was considerable. The suspension did a wonderful job of keeping a 2,700-lb+ car going where it was pointed. And the steering felt GREAT for a stock automobile. The seats did a better job of holding me than my old ZX3's seats. (I had doubted they would, for some reason...)
Anyhow, I ended-up getting stomped in G Stock at Texas Region's season opener. 4th out of 5, beating only a Novice in a Sentra. To my credit, though, he was cheating. (I would have protested if he had beaten me:D ) Removing the hood and back seat is NOT allowed in Stock, but I had to beaet SOMEONE. Maybe it won't look so bad once the overall PAX'd results are out...
Y'all take care...
Don't get me wrong, this is a great car. But it left me almost wanting my old ZX3 back, at least for AutoX. The SVTF felt REALLY heavy, compared to the ZX3. The tires, while better than the old 'Screamin' Eagles', still didn't hang-on like the magazines would have me think they should. And the open differential REALLY showed, slowing me down considerably.
To its credit, though, the SVTF DID have some strong points. The extra power made me finally feel like I belonged on an AutoX. The extra bulk didn't slow me down THAT much; I still noticed the power gain over a ZX3, and it was considerable. The suspension did a wonderful job of keeping a 2,700-lb+ car going where it was pointed. And the steering felt GREAT for a stock automobile. The seats did a better job of holding me than my old ZX3's seats. (I had doubted they would, for some reason...)
Anyhow, I ended-up getting stomped in G Stock at Texas Region's season opener. 4th out of 5, beating only a Novice in a Sentra. To my credit, though, he was cheating. (I would have protested if he had beaten me:D ) Removing the hood and back seat is NOT allowed in Stock, but I had to beaet SOMEONE. Maybe it won't look so bad once the overall PAX'd results are out...
Y'all take care...