Folks, I'm new to the board. I heard that some ppl here track their C5. I'm looking for a little advice. OK.. I just finished the post and am previewing it now...I'm looking for a LOT of advice...

I have an 02 2.7t 6mt. I've done some performance mods (see sig). My car is currently getting a new timing belt. That and brakes are the final things holding me back from hitting the track.

So, first, this is my DD. I am NOT trying to turn it into a track car. I want to get out on a track and have fun.

With that in mind...I am leaning toward NASA. From what I understand, they stick to tracks, real tracks. And, with the different HPDE groups, I can go as far as I want/am capable of. I like that.

On the other hand, SCCA seems to have many more events. Including some local (San Diego) events. But, what I don't like about SCCA is their AutoX. I have never driven and AutoX. But, I've been. I don't think I would have ANY fun trying to drive my big'ole A6 around in a sea of tightly formed cones. It's just too heavy. The other thing I've heard/seen about SCCA is that it seems to "push" you towards more competitive racing. No problem for those with track cars. But, again, mine's a DD.

Am I on the right track (no pun intended...really!), thinking NASA is the way for me to go? What am I not considering?

Now onto the car:
I don't like speed with out control. So, my car has gone thru life with me like this:
Bought 1/08 with 60K on the clock. One previous owner. Great shape. Made sure everything was in proper working order.
2/08 GIAC (91 oct) and Evolution DVs.
3/08 18x8 (wider than stock) RS4 reps with high clearance for a BBK. H-Sways, KW Variant 2 COs.
5/08 SPEC Stg 2 Clutch/LWFW and Samco Hose Kit
1/09 Timing belt (being done now) and Full custom exhaust (being done Wednesday).

I am going to wait for the K03s to go. Then, it'll be on to K04s and fueling. But, until then I will have to "live" with what I have.

Taking all that into consideration...I want to do brakes before I track it. The stock rotors look good, the pads are a bit worn. But, what should I do for brakes? I have considered 3 options:
1) Just get new pads. Nothing else needed until K04s.
2) StopTech "Stage 2" Kit. It appears these are only available thru the 2001 model C5. Bummer.
3) Get a BBK. I'm going to want one eventually anyway...expensive.

Other thoughts on tracking it. I need shoes and a helmet. Ideas? What else am I missing/not thinking of?

Sorry for such a long post. Just trying to get out all of what I think is relevant...

 

Not that you won't find some great people in Scca, but a lot seem to be very crusty. If you're into newer cars, foreign cars and a younger crowd....Nasa is probably for you. opinion

 

In the northeast, NASA/PDA can be a tough neighborhood for a first timer.

 

reading, NASA works harder to find a class for "run what ya brung."

 

audi club ftw....best bang for the buck and the instructors both in car and classroom are awesome

 

As mentioned, clubs vary by location. Track events with a passenger car offers challenges to car and driver. Audi club DE events usually have tech folks available to handle tire pressure recommendations, tire selection, brake pad choices (you will want different pads for the track) rental helmets, and other easy tuning suggestions (tire pressure bias f/r) and you will learn what shops are best for your car.
Our clubs have excellent instructors. You will be immersed with lots of instruction and become familiar with car potential and your skill position and goals. You will start in the beginner group, lots of classroom and maybe skidpad exercises and other low-speed control exercises.
One big advantage with Club DE events is you have a chance to either let your instructor drive your car or you get to ride in instructor car to see how it is done. Others will be glad to help you as your skills improve and you advance to higher run groups.
You will get a lot of track time, at DE events and an opportunity to drive some really great tracks.
I am an SCCA racer, they have new DE programs, but Audi club has been doing that format much longer and may have more seasoned instructors for you familiar with your car.
NASA is also a good program, but since you have an excellent Audi club in your area, start with them.