View Full Version : === ExoCars Challenge ===
Karlo is trying to put together an exocar challenge to compare and test some of the exocars available on the market. He asked me about it yesterday, and I said "WE ARE IN!".
I believe that we have the best product on the market with the TR-42, and it is also at the best price. We will see if Karlo can fill the card with other cars to run the challenge. The anticipated timeframe for the showdown is sometime in the summer of 2011. Danny and I are excited at the opportunity to show what we offer in a direct comparison to other exocars.
:king:
BT
Steve Jarvis
12-07-2010, 08:29 AM
Now this will seperate the men from the boys. :)
If this happens, it will be awesome and a real feather in the cap of the winner.
What are the parameters of the test going to be?
Here are my suggestions.
All cars should be supplied with the same tire. Not the same size, but the same brand/model.
- 0-100: Who cars about 0-60
- 1/4 mile: Simply a bench mark
- Wind protection: Maybe the use of a wind speed gauge mounted where the passengers face would be and a DB meter in the same location.
- 100-0: Again who cars about 60mph. :)
- Road course lap time: 2 mile minimum, we don't need no stinking autocross. :) BTW with this measure we don't need any of the above info. :)
We need more of this, as this will force the products to actually improve in measureable ways. Ever notice how poorly most kit cars perform in instrumented test?
Just my to cents, Steve
I like all those tests Steve! I would like to see one more that no one does...A rumble strip or speed bumps type test? I love toys but HATE when they break easy:thumbdown2:
I don't know how that could be tested or set up but it would sure be nice to know if I go off track or hit a pot hole whats it gonna break? and whats it gonna cost me??
PooK
Pagester
12-07-2010, 09:47 AM
very cool idea - would be great to see several of the mfg's participate
Karlo
12-07-2010, 12:46 PM
Got a tentative commitment from Brad who owns a Mev Rocket to be in the Challenge. He got some motivation to finish and dial his car :clap:
thebionicman
12-07-2010, 01:38 PM
That sounds like something I might be interested in. Guess it all depends on where it takes place. I plan on taking mine to the track to get some real world data.
Yeah Karlo if this works out where would it take place?
I think win loose or draw it would be great fun to test/compete/tune and establish realistic base line performance numbers on these cars....Kinda Top Gear-ish!
PooK
Karlo wants to have it in Las Vegas I think. I think there will be surprising differences in the overall size of the vehicles as well as very different ergonomics. If there could be four or more cars to test that would be awesome! If nothing else we can get the prototype out there and get some numbers on it, and people can guesstimate their comparative performance based on other engine options.
:spin:
BT
Karlo
12-07-2010, 06:29 PM
My preference is the West. Las Vegas would be nice but we will see.
stiggymills
12-08-2010, 02:27 AM
I would just love to take part in that one. Will it be in the U.K? If so please arrange it near the middle of our little island! Then I will not have far to travel. If it's in the USA I hope some of the kits we have supplied get to the event. A live webcam thing would be great if possible. You know like the ones with girls on but cars instead.
Sorry English humour comes out everytime I speak.
Every time I open my mouth I put my foot in it!
Stiggymills, Its VEGAS my friend:coolnana:
Everyone needs a vacation, and Cord has a MEV almost ready! Besides we could use the tourist money...no really we could before we end up with a tourist stimulus package! :(
PooK (Spending Bill's money like crazy to boost our economy:thumb2:)
Karlo
12-08-2010, 11:35 AM
Ok we got an Ariel Atom attending!!!
Nice! So far we have (tentatively):
Matrix TR-42 (not sure which one(s) will go)
Ariel Atom (don't know the spec or series)
MEV Rocket (with a nice turbo setup!).
I think these three cars will drive completely differently, and it should make a fun comparison.
Hopefully we can have a few more participants.
:clap:
BT
Karlo
12-08-2010, 01:04 PM
KirkHam Rush Please add
Steve Jarvis
12-08-2010, 01:46 PM
Getting actual weights and weight distribution would be great as well.
I didn't realize the Kirkham Rush was even available. I saw one at Lowes Motor Speedway in Charlotte, but didn't think it went any further. I didn't even think their website had been updated in ages. I guess I will have to check it out.
Later, Steve
I thought the Kirkham Rush was a design project only also. Good to know they offer them for sale.
Any engine spec available?
BT
What about the Vortex Karlo will it come play with us?
PooK
ViperJustin
12-09-2010, 09:08 AM
This is an interesting concept, but theres too many flaws in it. For example, competing with a stock Honda powered 200hp SLR vs a built Mitsubishi 500hp SLR will get two completely different sets of results. Look at the Aussies! They have a 500 horse SLR that is cleaning up anywhere it goes. And for the long and straight tracks, they have GT40s and SLCs to use. Anyways, this "challenge" will be like putting together a base 911 Carrera and a Corvette ZR1 together for testing. Whats the point in that? We all know who is going to win that one. In other words, a 400hp TR42 will beat a 200hp Mev Rocket just because of horsepower alone.
Another question is, who has the proper testing equipment for 0-60, 0-100, etc. The quarter mile can be done up at "The Strip" here in Vegas (if its held here). What about road holding (lateral G tests)? Slalom? Does anyone know where the proper equipment can be procured? Whats the point of a wind protection test? Seriously! These are "EXO" Cars. Notice the quoted word here. And besides, Ill be wearing a helmet while driving my car. So how could you test that? Whose going to pay for everyone to use the same tire? Im sure everyone has their preferences as to which tire that they want to run on their car. And Ill be running both street tires and slicks. So I guess this could be a test of which tire is best for an exocar? Idunno...
Unfortunately here in Vegas, the only type of auto events here are drag racing and autocross. Track days are pretty rare here. But theres an SCCA sanctioned autocross about once or twice a month. Drag racing happens almost every Friday here. For the rumble strip and breakage test... Thats just retarded. Whose going to bring their cars 500 miles or more to break their cars? Instead of doing that, you simply ask the manufacturer how much replacement A-Arms would cost or something like that. Generally speaking, I think that is just ludicrous. What about hot weather testing or long-term testing (done with a long drive through Death Valley)?
So how about just creating an Exocars Get Together for a weekend of driving, autocross (or whatever), and just get together and see all the different cars out there? Look at how the Corvette, Porsche, or Viper club do it. The only thing that sucks is that we wouldnt be able to have the resources (aka-money) to rent Las Vegas Classic Course or Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch. But we could make a good weekend of driving around (preferably, NOT Vegas since theres only a few roads out here that are worth a damn).
Just my two cents "for now". :thumb2:
Well, other than calling some suggestions 'retarded' I think you have some valid points Justin. I would expect a very high HP car to outperform a low powered car. What might be surprising is how a low powered car might impress the test driver. As I stated earlier, if the TR-42 prototype gets tested it would most likely be the low HP mark in the group. People could take the test data and guesstimate how they might perform based on a different engine selection.
I would like to see some performance testing just to get some real world numbers on these machines. I have read such varying claims that it is hard to know what the real numbers are. As Steve J said, kit cars come up short so often when tested that this would be a good way to force people to improve to avoid embarassment.
As far as using the same tire, that is not going to happen, unless some tire manufacturer sponsors it. I have sticky all season tires for the prototype, and Erik has Summer tires for his TR-42. The only way my car will handle as well would be if it is raining, and that aint likely in Vegas. But if we both showed up, then people could say they can get X performance from the all season tires, or Y performance from the summer tires using our chassis. I'm comfortable with that. Lotus almost always does well in their track tests using either the R888 or Advan 048 tires which last about 1/5 the mileage that other cars tires' typically get.
Regarding the noise test, many buyers and potential buyers want to use these cars for fun and not just for track use. Having some wind protection to enjoy a conversation or listen to the radio is important. Cars with windshields will obviously be more comfortable on long drives (even if they look less attractive). The Ariel Atom users have pretty much been uniform in their opinion that a windshield is a plus on this type of car.
As far as testing equipment, I think Karlo is getting that end of it together. I know he is going to be asking for money to cover his costs, and I am willing to put up some money to help see this happen (within reason).
Since you are local to the event and have an SL-R would you be willing to show up and give it a try?
BT
ViperJustin
12-09-2010, 10:15 AM
Since you are local to the event and have an SL-R would you be willing to show up and give it a try?
BT
Honestly, it all depends on if Im in town. Between deployments and exercises, I have no idea what my schedule is. :thumbdown2:
stiggymills
12-09-2010, 10:17 AM
It sounds like you guys have the makings of a kit car show. In the U.K we have several each year and lots of club gatherings too. The life style is an important feature of kit ownership/building. Like minded folk having a get together and a laugh over some beers.
Manufacturers then come along to show thier products and some times we have evening entertainment. Daytime entertainment such as driving challenge events in an arena are always popular to watch and the public are invited to see these crazy cars in the hope that they are tempted to get invloved. The USA has MASSIVE potential, bring on the show, forget the "who can pee the longest distance", just have fun. Max power or fastest 0-60 means nothing if the car is a bone shaker or a pig to handle.
ViperJustin
12-09-2010, 10:22 AM
Well, other than calling some suggestions 'retarded' I think you have some valid points Justin.
BT
And as far as the retarded comment goes, I still stand by it. Not only did I note the problem with this "test", but I came up with a solution. I highly doubt anyone wants to bring their car here to break it on purpose.
ViperJustin
12-09-2010, 10:24 AM
It sounds like you guys have the makings of a kit car show. In the U.K we have several each year and lots of club gatherings too. The life style is an important feature of kit ownership/building. Like minded folk having a get together and a laugh over some beers.
Manufacturers then come along to show thier products and some times we have evening entertainment. Daytime entertainment such as driving challenge events in an arena are always popular to watch and the public are invited to see these crazy cars in the hope that they are tempted to get invloved. The USA has MASSIVE potential, bring on the show, forget the "who can pee the longest distance", just have fun. Max power or fastest 0-60 means nothing if the car is a bone shaker or a pig to handle.
Exactly! :thumb2:
Karlo, you can make the "first ever" US ExoCar show.
Call Top Gear USA. They'll be all over it. Its possible anyway. That might get some advertising for this website (not to mention these small niche market cars that are desperate for a wider audience) on national TV.
I personally don't want big exposure for this industry. To me it can only mean inevitably some government yahoo like Ralph Nader will step in to regulate it and kill it in the process.
I like being underground to a degree where only people who are interested enough to dig around find our community.
Good to hear that Justin wil participate if he is in town! This is getting good.
I was not saying that the test Pook mentioned was going to happen, I was just saying that calling the suggestion 'retarded' shows a lack of class. I think the mechanical shortcomings of these machines will be evident in the testing (or lack thereof) for the cars that make it to the test / show. It would really be a small miracle if we got everyone who is signing up to actually show up and have the car go through the testing without any failures. Major manufacturers have a hard enough time making cars that can handle performance tests, I don't expect a few garage production companies to exceed the big guy's abilities.
:)
BT
Its rumble strips...most tracks have em...race a car and you hit "rumble strips" Its not a ramp or a wall and doesn't require a crash test dummy:awais:
Its just to see how a car handles when its upset and if anything rattles. You put a judge in the passenger seat, hit the inside turn rumbles, if its smooth you get points, if it sounds like ball bearings in a soup can you don't, If it breaks?.....well I guess we have something to laugh about over beers later:D
And a lighter car with a small engine may out brake, out corner, etc.. so while you gain in one category big HP could cost you in others...
PooK
AZDave
12-09-2010, 02:06 PM
Why don't you just piggyback this event onto someones trackday event. SCCA, NASA have them all the time. Insurance, safety equipment, corner workers etc. are all covered. Some events even rent transponders for accurate lap times. Attendance for these events (at least here in Arizona) have been rather low due to the economy and I'm sure any one of these groups would be happy to have you.
That way you get to run a real track with all the amenities.
I like the idea of a meet and track day to see who can post the fastest laps, and who can do the most laps in a 20 or 30 minute run.
:)
BT
For the rumble strip and breakage test... Thats just retarded.
Hey, most of your post was retarded Justin.
Kidding. It takes decades for most people to learn to be tactful. One day you and I might.
Any racing event is a breaking event. Weak spots, poor installations, poor build quality, or just wear and tear, result in breakage at all track events. A sit and look pretty car show is another matter.
I would bring my (whatever I have at the time) half way across the country any day for such an event as this.
If you truly want a good comparison of your cars I'd suggest all interested attend the Grassroots magazine sponsored ultimate track car event at VIR in July.
This would cover all of the insurance, safety inspection and performance comparison issues against a large number of cars at a nationally recognized track.
It would also provide national magazine coverage.
Chet
PS - I have contacts at Grassroots magazine if you need more info.
stevew
12-09-2010, 03:21 PM
Honestly, if there was a big group of the exocar guys getting together, I may (assuming my car is buttoned up and road legal and there's room in the schedule) have to make the road trip. Hmmm, 9-10 hours each way in a street legal go kart...now that's my kind of FUN!
I would be good for a Virginia Grassroots thing, and a LONG drive in an exocar also. Where is home base SteveW???
The Matrix owners group will be doing mountain drives in the future, so any exocar owner would be welcome at those events also.
:)
BT
stevew
12-09-2010, 03:33 PM
home at the moment is Colorado -- however, may be looking at California in the future if things go correctly (which means like a 5% chance!).
thebionicman
12-09-2010, 03:41 PM
I am pretty sure there will be a Minnesota Matrix Owner's meet!
golftdibrad
12-09-2010, 05:03 PM
I'd like to get in on this, need to make a schedule to finish my car....
Karlo, You should charge us an entree and donate it to a charity, like Saint Jude children's hospital...or the Wounded Worrior Project...its a thought?
PooK
Karlo
12-09-2010, 07:13 PM
Exactly! :thumb2:
Karlo, you can make the "first ever" US ExoCar show.
I like that Idea of a Exo Car Show. Keep coming with the suggestions!!
cordycord
12-09-2010, 11:20 PM
Interesting! Don't agree with Justin. This isn't about leveling the playing field with the same tires and the same horsepower, but showing off each car's capabilities. Let's face it, the "winning" car for any particular person may not have won the road course, the 1/4 mile, stopping, whatever. However, this is a first class chance to get a lot of different cars together that are written about on this site. Just to get them all together at once is a win. Testing them on the same day in a similar manner can only help shed light on the absolute performance of all of them.
On a simple scale, a g-meter and a weekend event can yield all sorts of information. Plus, GoPro cameras in all cars. :) If you're lucky enough to find a track day and a 1/4 mile drag at the same venue (such as California Speedway), you've got a complete show.
And why not take an extra day with all the owners and a winding road? Let them have round robin driving duties, and then vote on their own favorites. BTW, if my car's done, I'm in. If I'm out of town, Karlo can drive it.
Gakes
12-10-2010, 11:15 PM
I think this is a great idea! Just a pitty I'm in South Africa, I would have loved to jump onboard and help organize the event.
My opinions, have a nice long drive through a twisty mountain route (like a rally) to start the event off, then arrange a tight gymkhana, it will close the gap between the big Hp cars and the smaller ones. It will showcase driver ability as well. 1/4 mile Drags and a circuit race....class for class (hp groups as we have here in SA)
Cord, if you need parts to finish your xO400 that I can assist with/ship quickly to you I will assist just to see how it measures up with the rest of the exo bunch:)
andre555
12-12-2010, 04:35 PM
Any chance to see one of the recently shipped SDR Storm's there - powered by a Subaru engine?:spin:
Karlo
12-18-2010, 07:45 AM
We are shooting for a May 2011 event Las Vegas or Southern California.
Man Karlo, The only way to get any further away for poor Bill is to move it off shore.
If it ends up in Cali I may be out my friend, too far, (Bill may still go?) besides they already have all the cool stuff like Sema, knotts, etc...
and to be honest Vegas sounded fun to me and my wife...Cali does not.
PooK (pullin for Vegas)
Conquest351
12-20-2010, 08:10 AM
If you guys can't get any track cooperation, let me know. I have connections with Motorsport Ranch up near Dallas as well as Driveway Austin in (you guessed it) Austin. There's also Harris Hill Road in San Marcos as well. Lots of cool tracks to choose from in my area. I'll follow this thread pretty closely, I may have a vested interest in the gathering other than just a spectator.
As far as the competition/testing goes, why not have the same driver drive all the vehicles? You will eliminate the driver as a variable. Here's my test schedule suggestion...
1) Road test, drive:
Drive around town, 10 mile circuit. Regular driving, not a timed event, more of a comfort comparison.
2) Acceleration:
0-60 & 0-100
3) Braking:
60-0 & 100-0
4) Quick Combo:
0-60-0 & 0-100-0
5) Road Course:
One warm up lap, then 3 laps, average the runs together to get a time.
6) Drag Race:
One shakedown run, 3 runs, average them together to get a time.
7) Finished Product:
Visible comparison of the vehicles entered. How do they look, how are they finished out? Get a team of 5-10 judges and have them rank each car on things like Exterior, Interior, Overall Asthetics, Etc.
8) Top Dawg:
Take all scores from each vehicle and rank them all.
Just my suggestion.
Laters,
Brian
Mid May is going to be a tough deadline to meet, but we will certainly give it a try.
I would hope that at least we will have the very attractive (if not the high powered) prototype on the road by then.
:)
BT
cordycord
12-20-2010, 09:15 AM
Man Karlo, The only way to get any further away for poor Bill is to move it off shore.
If it ends up in Cali I may be out my friend, too far, (Bill may still go?) besides they already have all the cool stuff like Sema, knotts, etc...
and to be honest Vegas sounded fun to me and my wife...Cali does not.
PooK (pullin for Vegas)
Hey Danny, California Speedway is only three hours away from downtown Las Vegas! Plus, it's got top notch covered garages complete with power, benches, and even TV. On any given weekend they also host a 1/4 mile drag and an autocross. You can race on Saturday and then cruise the beach Sunday or carve your way up Palomar Mountain.
Don't get me wrong--I'll go to Las Vegas or Cal Speedway.
cordycord
12-20-2010, 09:16 AM
BTW, the Sonic should be done by May, but certainly not dialed in. I'll be ecstatic if it's road-legal by then.
Hey Danny, California Speedway is only three hours away from downtown Las Vegas! Plus, it's got top notch covered garages complete with power, benches, and even TV. On any given weekend they also host a 1/4 mile drag and an autocross. You can race on Saturday and then cruise the beach Sunday or carve your way up Palomar Mountain.
Don't get me wrong--I'll go to Las Vegas or Cal Speedway.
Cal Speedway in Fontana is a quick 2615 mile drive from my house (each way)...
:(
BT
Thats crazy Bill....5200 miles?
We should hold it in the US.
PooK
ViperJustin
12-20-2010, 01:59 PM
We should figure out where a majority of us are from. That may help where we could set up the event.
A track day at SMMR (Spring Mountain) would be at a VERY minimum would be over 10k and half would have to be put down very soon to get a May date. So even if we had 20 people show up, its at least 500 a piece.
Just get things started:
ViperJustin- Las Vegas
Karlo
12-20-2010, 02:19 PM
We will partnering up with an track day company, like www.speedventures.com (http://www.speedventures.com) price will be under $300 per day.
Brian's Idea for TX (and Karlo had brought it up as well at one time) isn't bad? kinda central? not super excessive in any direction? It's a thought?
PooK
I like Texas. I-10 is long enough to get the TR-42 up to top speed... :coolnana:
Can't say I really look forward to hauling a car 5200 miles for a 2 day event (6 days driving 2 days at the destination goes against the 2 stay for each day driving rule). I'm in South Florida which is pretty much the farthest you can get from Cali / Vegas, but with a mid May date I'm 50/50 anyway in being able to get finished and set up reasonably well, so don't worry too much about me. If I can't make it in the spring, I will be able to go to the next thing.
:spin:
BT
Conquest351
12-20-2010, 04:16 PM
Texas is open, just to let ya'll know. LOL I will be more than happy to do what I can if you do decide to move it a little more central. Talked to Karlo about it. LOL I'm here if anyone needs me!!
If you truly want a good comparison of your cars I'd suggest all interested attend the Grassroots magazine sponsored ultimate track car event at VIR in July.
This would cover all of the insurance, safety inspection and performance comparison issues against a large number of cars at a nationally recognized track.
It would also provide national magazine coverage.
Chet
PS - I have contacts at Grassroots magazine if you need more info.
The Sylva J15 and possibly the Nemesis will be there!
X2
ViperJustin
12-27-2010, 11:13 AM
http://www.speedventures.com/events/eventdetail.aspx?id=317
Karlo, this is a good bet for the time frame and location that you are looking for. We'll just have to watch for when the event registration opens (or you can email them and tell them the plan?).
This track is phenomenal. Ive done multiple track days here on my bike and when I had my C6 Vette. This is the closest venue to Vegas that is open in May and the prices are pretty good (for this track). The facilities here are excellent, too. The city of Pahrump has cheaper hotels than in Vegas, too. Death Valley, and the Eastern Sierra Mountains are just a couple hours from there as well. An all day trip can be done to DV, the Sierras, and Sequoia National Forest if you want to do that. Just throwing out some ideas...
I plan on doing many track days with these guys. Ill do a quick write up on them if anyone wants it.
Karlo
12-27-2010, 11:19 AM
You beat me to the punch Justin, I have been communicating with SpeedVenture and that is the date :) the Exo Car Challenge will be held.
I am still putting together the official announcement.
ViperJustin
12-27-2010, 12:15 PM
You beat me to the punch Justin, I have been communicating with SpeedVenture and that is the date :) the Exo Car Challenge will be held.
I am still putting together the official announcement.
Oops! Didnt mean to step on your feet.
That place is absolutely perfect! As of right now, I should be in town then. But I wont be able to keep any promises. (You just never know what comes up...)
Either way, I really hope Im in town just to be able to do the track day!!! I love SMMR!!!
Karlo
12-27-2010, 12:17 PM
If you are not in town, I bet your car will be. Maybe one of your trusted buddies can bring it to the track.
ViperJustin
12-27-2010, 12:21 PM
If you are not in town, I bet your car will be. Maybe one of your trusted buddies can bring it to the track.
Jebus!!! I guess that would be cheating since one of my friends races the Stevenson Camaro in the Grand-Am/Rolex series. :D
Edit: I see that you have the announcement for the track days at SMMR. Are there plans for a first meet up before the track day? For example:
Thursday afternoon: Everyone gets into town/meets up.
Friday: Morning show (an hour of taking a look at everyone's cars) and then a scenic drive for the day.
Sat and Sun: Track days
Edit 2: Also make sure that your car complies with the requirements from SpeedVentures.com. Also be sure you have the write equipment (helmet, etc). Actually, these comply with most track day companies.
Car inspection: http://www.speedventures.com/events/tech.pdf
FAQ: http://www.speedventures.com/faqs.aspx
ViperJustin
12-28-2010, 06:19 PM
What do you think of this? Im just throwing some ideas out there.
Thursday- 12th
800-1700-(For early risers and people who dont need rest getting into town the day before)- Drive to St George (Zion National Park) or a drive through Death Valley (great roads out there). Temps in Death Valley are generally around 90-100 this time of year. Lunch will be at that location (ZNP or DV).
1700-1900- Meet up at Silverton Casino (easy access, large parking lot, etc) to do meet and greet for 30 minutes. Drive to Blue Diamond and then go to Red Rock Canyon Park for pics, and a couple laps around the park.
1900-????- Drive down Charleston Blvd to get to strip and do a strip drive with the cars. Thursday night should be less traffic and a better opportunity to stay together. Dinner at ?????????????
Friday- 13th
800-1100 Meet up at Petrol Stop on Exit 54 (Speedway Blvd-North side of Las Vegas) to gas up and get water, etc. Rolling out at 0800. Drive up to Valley of Fire for scenic drive, pics, etc. Continue drive down North Shore Road on Lake Meade and eat at Calville Bay (really fun 4 mile stretch to get there).
After lunch- Continue on scenic tour of Lake Meade and go to Hoover Dam for more pics, tours (if anyone wants to??????), etc.
After that...-Split up to set cars up for track day or I (ViperJustin) can take people up to Mt Charleston (8000'+) for another scenic drive (aka-FUN) if people want to????
Sat- Track Day at Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch
Sun- Track Day at SMMR, (Not sure if you want to do two track days...)
Sunday evening dinner and say our goodbyes, etc. ????????
*******Valley of Fire, Lake Meade Recreation Area, Zion National Park, and Red Rock Canyon have tolls to enter.
reality_storm
12-29-2010, 06:19 PM
Is this for competitors only or are those of us who are shopping for the perfect exo invited as well? Something to think about is to charge us spectators for the opportunity to test out some of the cars we are interested in. Could generate some sales. No matter who "wins" the official challenge, everybody wins! Manufacturers, buyers, enthusiasts, we all win. Very excited for this.
ViperJustin
12-29-2010, 08:47 PM
I dont see why you wouldnt be allowed to come out and spectate. However, I wont let people drive my car. Other manufacturers may allow it though. Idunno. Ill give rides on the track, though.
Edit: Where are you located???
reality_storm
12-29-2010, 09:04 PM
D.C. But I will make my way out to this. I'd settle for a ride as a passenger. Lol.
cordycord
12-29-2010, 09:19 PM
I think Justin's got some great ideas, as clearly there's plenty to do in and around Las Vegas. I also just read a "10 best roads in America" list in one of the car magazines, and Death Valley was on the list. Interesting.
I'd also like to see as many people as can make the weekend get there. While I don't think I'll be handing the keys over to just anyone, I'd certainly take any passengers who were brave enough to hop in. :awais:
ViperJustin
12-29-2010, 09:38 PM
I ride all of the roads listed above on my motorcycle (BMW) on a weekly basis 8 months out of the year. Im extremely familiar with them and know where the gas stations are (few and far between out in the DV area). Theres a road in DV NP thats called Dantes View. You arrive 5000' above the lowest point in DV (-282'). That road is insanely twisty and fun. And at the top... best view in the valley.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dante's_View
ViperJustin
01-11-2011, 12:34 PM
Any new details, Karlo? Been kind of quiet in these parts...
Karlo
01-12-2011, 06:16 PM
MY assumption is that most do not want to travel the 30 mins to the Las Vegas Strip Casinos after a day at the track.
BEST WESTERN Pahrump Station
1101 S Highway 160
Pahrump, Nevada 89048-4700
Ph. 775-727-5100
$80 per Weekend Night with Conti-Breakfast.
Make sure you mention Spring Mountain Track.
http://www.bestwesternnevada.com/hotels/best-western-pahrump-station/
Nirvana Motorsport
01-19-2011, 09:28 PM
I'm doing One Lap of America in April....If we can swing it we will be there with our 450hp SLR.....
ViperJustin
02-19-2011, 09:47 AM
I'm doing One Lap of America in April....If we can swing it we will be there with our 450hp SLR.....
Id love to see what a 450hp SLR could do out there!
ViperJustin
03-19-2011, 05:28 PM
Ill be attending with my Superlite Razor (unless the US Govt says otherwise...). Is there a list of people attending?
cordycord
03-24-2011, 11:33 PM
I'm doing everything I can to get the damn Sonic 7 done in time. If anything I'll need to tow it there. If the car isn't ready, maybe Hertz will let me borrow a car. :)
I doubt we will have the TR-42 at the Exocars challenge. My best guess is that we will have it done right around that time, and I obviously can't schedule to take it to a track challenge without doing some fine tuning and shakedowns. I'd rather do that locally rather than 2500 miles from home. If nothing else Justin will get a heck of a deal with lots of track time for the low price offered!
:)
BT
Karlo
04-05-2011, 09:21 AM
Registration is open.
http://www.speedventures.com/events/eventdetail.aspx?id=345
It looks like we will be sharing the track, we can use them as cones :)
ViperJustin
04-05-2011, 09:46 AM
Im IN!
Edit: Im in for Saturday. If anyone else signs up for Sunday, Ill go then, too.
Lets get some more Exocars out here. Sonic7, TR42, Atom, SLR, and whoever else. Lets show these guys what Exocars are all about! Its going to be LOTS of fun! Ive already put in for leave for the week before this event. So if anyone gets out here early, we'll go take some nice drives through the mountains and stuff.
Nirvana Motorsport
04-05-2011, 10:17 AM
We will be there with our big turbo lnf roadster, as long as we can afford the gas for the drive down from Chicago!
Would love to see an Atom show up.
ViperJustin
04-18-2011, 08:01 PM
I'm doing everything I can to get the damn Sonic 7 done in time. If anything I'll need to tow it there. If the car isn't ready, maybe Hertz will let me borrow a car. :)
About a month left... Are you going to make it?
Anyone else??????????????
golftdibrad
04-19-2011, 05:45 AM
I'm going to go ahead and officially back out. Even if by some miracle i can thrash and get the thing drivable, Its simply not in my budget (for time or money) to get over to this.
Sorry guys, I really wanted to meet the people on the site FTF. Perhaps we can get another meet together in the fall? I also want to try and get mine ready to go to the dragon in August.
East coast for the win! I plan on taking the prototype up to the mountains in the fall (October-ish). Maybe we could plan to meet up along the drive someplace? Looks like the Exocar challenge will be Justin vs. his builder. At least it will be good to see what kind of lap times the cars provide compared to other known cars (spec Miata etc...).
:)
BT
golftdibrad
04-19-2011, 06:55 AM
East coast for the win! I plan on taking the prototype up to the mountains in the fall (October-ish). Maybe we could plan to meet up along the drive someplace? Looks like the Exocar challenge will be Justin vs. his builder. At least it will be good to see what kind of lap times the cars provide compared to other known cars (spec Miata etc...).
:)
BT
yea, its one of the downfalls of a huge country; travel is expensive and urban sprawl is terrible :(
ViperJustin
05-04-2011, 06:47 PM
Just a week and a half away. Whose in? I'll be there but for setting up the car more than anything. And to just have fun. My goal is to beat a stock c6 corvette since that's what I used to own. That's my main goal as far as racing goes.
Just a week and a half away. Whose in? I'll be there but for setting up the car more than anything. And to just have fun. My goal is to beat a stock c6 corvette since that's what I used to own. That's my main goal as far as racing goes.
So what times do people get with a stock C6 vette on that track? It will certainly be interesting to see what the numbers are in comparison. I would expect the Razor to be about 4-7 seconds faster on a 1:30 track.
:)
BT
ViperJustin
05-09-2011, 06:12 PM
Due to unfortunate circumstances, I wont be pressing the car much more than 75% or so. I still need to figure out the suspension, fueling, and some other smaller issues. But I think Ill still be able to run it faster than a stock C6. Also, the track config has been changed since one of the sections (very curvy section) is peeling up from the heat. So now there is a much longer, straighter section where the Vettes, Vipers, Porsches etc can catch me.
Anyways... should be interesting. I cant wait. :thumb2:
Nirvana Motorsport
05-10-2011, 06:11 AM
Even with your "stock" engine, in a straight line you should walk away from any of those cars...
ViperJustin
05-11-2011, 10:06 AM
This is what you guys are missing.........
Lotus
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMPxdh2whB4
Subaru-lap starts about 30 seconds in
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUSISue6Tgc
ViperJustin
05-11-2011, 11:27 PM
This is what you guys are missing.........
Lotus
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMPxdh2whB4
Subaru-lap starts about 30 seconds in
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUSISue6Tgc
Looks like I wont be making it now... :thumbdown2:
Edit: I MIGHT make it... Working feverishly to get it working right. Got a guy over here that works on Formula Fords and Mazdas.
trj1370
05-12-2011, 07:33 PM
Is there any list of cars or schedule of events for this weekend? I don't have an exo but I'm in the market and live in Vegas. I'd love to see and talk exos but I don't want to just hang around the track all day.
Nirvana Motorsport
05-12-2011, 09:00 PM
Unfortunately, we won't be making the trip. It's a long way, and lots of gas to get down there...and my sisters graduation is Saturday....
We will be on track at Autobahn Country Club in Joliet, IL all summer if any exo guys make it out this way I'd be happy to have you out, any day but Monday (track closed).
I hope we can reorganize and get some more involvement, it will be a great event.
** Free Ride (1 lap...maybe more if your nice) to any exocars.net user **
So who finally showed up for this, and how were the cars (if any) on the track? Did the Exocars beat out any C6 vettes if there happened to be some there also?
:)
BT
Karlo
05-16-2011, 11:49 AM
Pictures of the First Exo Car Challenge. Times still being processed.
It was amazing the range of cars, Miatas, S2000, Corvettes, 2010 Camaro, Radical, Subaru STI, Evolution, Mustangs, RX7, Lotus Elise, Lotus 111, Porsche Turbo, 944, BMW, Cadillac, Nissan GTR, more??
I'm glad Justin made it out for the trackday. Also glad that an Ariel Atom was there. Looks like a good time for those that attended.
:)
BT
Man I wish we could have made it out there Karlo:(
PooK
cordycord
05-18-2011, 09:18 PM
Me too...nothing but engine problems for me. Don't want to talk about it...
Karlo
05-22-2011, 08:08 AM
Results, I need to find out which one the Ariel Atom is. His online name is "Positron"
Which time is Justin? I see one Justin listed, but it says he was driving a Honda S2000.
BT
NormL
05-22-2011, 01:19 PM
Results, I need to find out which one the Ariel Atom is. His online name is "Positron"
I don't see his name on the list ...
AUGIE
05-22-2011, 03:40 PM
we are all jealous not to have been there! go to the second page JUSTIN, RCR , SLR.
we are all jealous not to have been there! go to the second page JUSTIN, RCR , SLR.
Thanks for that. I don't know why I missed it previously. Hopefully the car will improve, I know Justin is expecting much more from it. With the targeted hp and weight the car should easily be competing for top spot in that field of cars.
:)
BT
Karlo
05-27-2011, 05:36 PM
Justin Video at Spring Mountain Exocar Challenge 2011* http://contour.com/stories/sl-razor-at-smmr-14-may-11
ViperJustin
12-08-2011, 09:50 PM
Las Vegas track day- April 21
This is a heads up for everyone who will be in the Las Vegas region that weekend. Speedventures will be putting on the event at the Las Vegas classic course. It's an excellent road course that's a lot of fun and has an excellent asphalt surface.
Anyways, just putting this up because I will be there whether my car is running at 130hp (like last year) or 300hp (if I can get it running right). Since I know the course pretty well, (motorcycle track days), I won't be in need of an instructor. Therefore, for those of you that will be around, and have a helmet, come on over cause I'll be giving out rides around the track.
See ya there!!!
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