First car

[Nvalstyn]

So I'm 16 and getting my jol soon and want a 240sx. I've been trying to look up Everything I can about the KA-24de and the SR-20det as I'm deciding which one I want in my 240. From what I've read, the SR isn't even legal in the U.S and won't pass emissions? I'm looking for an honest opinion on which of these I should get and why. I've also looks at miatas but the only good side of owning one of those from what I've read is they are a good first car and easy to work one. Besides that they are slow and you will get completed toasted by other car enthusiasts.??? I know that most comments and going to tell me to do some more research but if there is anyone who would like to educate me on which would be a better match for me then that would be awesome.( I would turbo charge the KA).

[centralcoaster33]

240s are great cars. Lot's of fun, relatively easy to work on, easy part availability for both maintenance and upgrades, mildly inexpensive and RWD FTW! Same goes for the Miata, but there's even more support for racing due to the popularity of SPEC and Club racing with MX5s. So you get smoked at a green light drag race. Who cares? You're lucky if you don't get a ticket or wreck for that stuff. 240s aren't drag queens without some serious modification. You can roast that same car on the winding backroads when you develop your driving skills. Depending on the driver, I either pass or rally with Porches, Vettes, Bimmers, crotch rockets, EVOs, S2000 and WRXs in the mountains behind Santa Cruz. I rarely get passed, practically never unless I'm tired and not up to driving hard. I can loose at a green light, but I don't see the gain in the win, so I don't bother to compete. BTW - the number one upgrade is your driver skills. Not only will you get good at manipulating your own car, but you can transfer your a** to any other car and now it's been upgraded with your driving prowess! So, consider spending some money on gas and seat time, think about finding what are called 'car control clinics' to learn skid-pad, braking and slalom maneuvers at the local airport. Consider auto-cross for a bit of self improvement for any car you end up getting.

If you just want power and acceleration, get it out of the box. Buy a Mustang GT! BTW - I was on the track at Laguna Seca with a Mazda 3, my S14 and a newer Boss GT. The GT was in the back and trailing further away. It was not a race, but I was surprised. Definitely a driver issue.

Welcome to NICO Club! Keep us updated. If you find a ride for sale, we can review the ad/ posting for you if you like.

[centralcoaster33]

After further consideration, I digress on the green light drag queens. It's not my sort of thing, but it appeals to many others. If you're gonna do it, I suggest laying down some money on it to make the risk worthwhile. Some amount more than if you got a ticket. That way you can pay the ticket with your winnings.