I have a 2003 MCS with H-Sport suspension mods, 15% sc pulley, 2% crank pulley, Alta intake, UUC exhaust, GIAC, and a few other little mods. I have competed in my first couple of events and actually won one of the events in a small SM field. What I am interested in is opinions as to whether a 2005-2006 transmission geared as it is with oem LSD or a pre-2005 transmission with a Quaife LSD would perform better in autocross. Any comments would be appreciated.

Len

 

I'm no expert, but I would think the '05+ because of the shorter gearing alone. This gets you up to speed quicker (but maybe too quick with tiny wheels/tires).

Someone else will have to chime in about the Quaife

 

Having a 2002-2004 transmission with Quaife would be better than having a 2005-2006 with open diff, but probably not better than one with the factory limited slip since the latter has improved gearing plus decent traction. Best would be an '05 or '06 tranny with Quaife.

There may be courses where the taller second gear on the early cars is an advantage since it keeps you from having to shift in and out of 3rd, but in general I think the better acceleration of the shorter gearing is best.

Scott
90SM

 

Its really depends on the course like 90stx stated. I have the 03 with Phantom Grip LSD. Some courses i have to shift others i don't. On the ones i dont the 05's do and i do better against them. of course i still have to make up for th start. Which gearing helps the 05+ on that.

 

It may be coincidence, but I've seen 2 factory lsd's self-destruct on course (2 different minis). I've never even heard of a quaife failing.

 

For best results-

On a budget the 05-06' gearing beats out the older (taller) gearing. This helps alot even if you don't add any LSD.

Given that the labor to add an OEM LSD vs the Quaife would be the same given you have the older model MCS I would suggest the Quaife (more bullet proof) would be a good investment albeit more costly.