awesome write up, Ryan... now I can't wait to order my R56.... just have to wait for any interest in my R53... anyone?

 

ask your mom. when i told mine i was selling my R53 for an R56, she said she'll buy it. pretty sweet deal

 

Will 225/50/16 fit 16x6.5 MINI wheels?

 

It'll fit the wheels, but the tire will be "pinched" on the rim.

 

Ryan-

Great write up. I've driven Gingerman several times with both my Audi B5 S4 & my NA Miata. Neither of them had any drivetrain modifications, but I once borrowed a Momo racing seat for the Miata. After that, I had modified stock seats with the seat cushion cut out to help get my helmet under the roll bar. I know what you mean about getting used to a race seat. It makes a HUGE difference. I'm curious how you think the stock sport seats in the R53 compare to the stock sport seats in the R56. Do you think they are any better? (my relatively limited experience from renting R53's left me underwhelmed at their support). Also, it is pretty common in the Miata community to keep a set of race seats in the garage and swap them for the stock for track events. Do you plan on doing this? (I realize that it is a lot more complicated due to the airbag issues).

Thanks!
Matt

 

My R56 JCW front rotors finally came in and I installed them. They are only about $100 each from the dealer. I hope this helps on track day. They are suppose to heat up and cool down faster plus allow the pads to outgas.

I have been looking for upgraded pads that will fit in the R56 front calipers. Anyone found any yet? I am looking for some like the Porterfield RS-4 pads that are good for street/autocross and track days, plus they are low dust.

I have been in contact with Tim at Porterfield and he has not been able to cross the OEM pads to any standard part number yet.

I could buy an OEM set for $125, send them to Porterfield and have them put the RS-4 material on them for another $150.

I think I will live with the dust for a while.

 

Ryan,

Great post ! I will be heading to Mosport with my R56 mid-July. I am not too concerned with the brakes at this point as I am a novice track driver and new to the MCS. I think I will be exploring my limits more than the car !

Quick question: I noticed the fog lamps (and access plug) are in direct line with the rotors. Did you ever consider removing them for the track ?

 

If you pulled the fog lights and cut a hole in the wheel liner and placed a airduct to connect the two openings, it would effectively cool the brakes. My 1991 318is has that setup from the factory. I don't know why today's cars don't.

 

Cool, someone talking about brake ducting!