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Driving my wife's RX-8 at Laguna Seca, Turn 8. Known as the corkscrew, it's a very
photogenic place to take pictures. Unfortunately it's narrow enough that you can't
really pass anyone through this turn.
Upgrade your car and you can drive it that much better. Upgrade your driving skills and
you can drive any car better. Guess which gives you more bang for your buck? When it comes
to learning how to be a better driver there are three common routes to take: car control
clinics, autocross and track days. Each has their advantages.
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Imagine knowing what to do when your car begins to slide, or being in control during that
panic stop. Even if you think you know what you are doing, car control clinics allow you
to explore the limits of you and your car in a controlled setting. The techniques learned
are fundamental to performance driving but more importantly enhance your ability to be a
safer driver.
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An autocross is a relatively low speed automotive competition event where drivers try to
be the fastest in their class through a defined course. Cars run one at a time at safe
intervals and a timing system is used to determine each driver's time on course. The course
is laid out in an open area and marked with traffic cones.
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Track days (aka high performance driving schools) are offered by many different organizations
and vary in group size, number of days and format. Most divide participants into different
groups based on previous experience and have instructors that ride with you.
Resources:
- Secrets of Solo Racing: Expert Techniques for Autocrossing and Time Trials, by Henry A. Watts
This is a good introductory book that teaches the fundamentals of racing as it applies to autocross.
- How to Make Your Car Handle, by Fred Puhn
An excellent general book on car suspension and improving handling.
- Best Motoring DVDs
A series of DVDs from Japan that review performance cars and drive them on tracks and mountain roads. Great in-car footage.