hey nammies,

just back from another autocross....and thought of a question. what should we do with the top when we run in autocross or track events?

all the s2000's and miata's run with their tops down....but their tops are completely retractable....those cars clearly look more aerodynamic with the top down. the mini is a different story. i've run with the top down 'cause all the other verts did. but now i'm wondering if that's the best, most aerodynamic way to go?

so what do you think we should do?

 

I thought the up/down decision had more to do with club rules wherever you happen to be running.

Fwiw I can't track my car with the local track club - doesn't meet their safety/rollbar reqs. And I don't aurocross. Just a touge rat.

 

thanks paul. i figure top up/down not really a biggie at autocross. this weekend i had it up quite a bit between runs to protect me from the sun/heat, but did my runs with the top down.

i had a slight scare with roll bar requirements for my upcoming track day at the new nj motorsports complex...but it turns out i'm allowed!! i astounded the 866-ask-mini folks by asking for the specs on the rollbar (thickness,material). they were very pleasant and said they'd find out and call me.....but that was days ago! if you know, please enlighten.

anywho, i figure i'll pester the track guys/my instructors with the "run with the top up vs. down?" question. i'm leaning towards running with the top up.

btw, if you want to track blimey, you may want to look into http://www.pdadrivingschool.com

and be prepared for a report on this: http://www.njmotorsportspark.com/index.html

happy trails!

 

I get better highway mileage with top up -- so I would assume top up on the track will give you better results.