r/rallycross • u/Ordinary-Ad5146 • 18d ago
Question Beginner Rallycross Car? (+Daily Driver)
I have a multiple sided question regarding beginner rallycross cars. To start, I currently daily drive a 1990 Mazda Miata, which is currently setup for street/track driving. I've been considering getting a new daily on the account that the Miata probably isn't the safest daily (front airbag needs to be replaced and everything driving around me is a lifted F150 or large SUV). Most of the time people just don't see me on the road.
I'm also taking this opportunity to get an entry level rallycross car. I've wanted to get into rallycross for a while now, but didn't have a reason to get a whole new car. I know I can rallycross the Miata, but it's purpose built now for the HPDE track days, which I do a couple times a year. All in all, my goal is to find an entry level rallycross car that has modern safety features (front, rear, and side airbags, etc.).
So far, my choices are as follows:
- 2008-13 Subaru Impreza Hatchback
- I like the extra room in the back on the Hatchback for day to day use
- 2008-13 Subaru Impreza WRX Hatchback
- 2013-2020 Subaru BR-Z / Scion FR-S
I'm currently leaning towards the 2008-13 base Impreza as I've heard a non-WRX model is a good place to start in the sport. I also feel like the 265hp of the WRX is a bit overwhelming for me considering I'm use to about 100hp haha. I haven't seen many people use this 3rd generation Impreza in the first place, so I'm not sure if it's the best choice. If daily driving safety wasn't a concern I'd get a 2007 Impreza (Hawkeye), but it's kind of the whole reason behind the purchase (07 lacks in safety features). The rallycross aspect is a fun bonus.
Anyway, I'd appreciate any input on this topic! I know it's probably not a typical topic for rallycross, but I wasn't finding much online to help make my decision.
3
u/Beatreporting 18d ago
Take a look at the groups you would be racing with. If you want to be competitive it pays to know which classes have more contenders than others. I raced a 1990 Miata in rallycross and found that my times were pretty competitive overall but I was consistently at the top of the Heap in my class. Having owned a WRX for a long time and done rally cross with that as well I can also say that rear wheel drive is a ton of fun in the dirt and slush.
Generally, if I were you I would go with the BRZ. It will be plenty fast and be competitive in Raleigh cross. The other thing you could consider if you want to stick with Miatas is an NC Miata with the hardtop. I also raced an NC Miata in rallycross and it was a ton of fun with a good wide stance but still a short wheelbase.