After 4 years racing FM's in the Southeast, I am seriously considering the purchase of an FSCCA car prior to the upcoming price increase. I recently spent a test day in the car at VIR, and with the exception of the gearbox issues I felt that it was a very nice machine. Let me say upfront that I think this car and class have great potential, and I have no doubt that the program will be a success.
That said, today I obtained a parts price list from Enterprises, and I must say that I am absolutely shocked at some of the prices. SCCA and Van Diemen should be embarrased to ask some of these prices for an "entry level" spec car. And yes, I expected the prices to be somewhat higher than the FM, but not this high....
I would advise anyone who is considering the purchase of an FSCCA car to take a close look at the parts costs. For those that are new to open-wheel racing, it is not at all uncommon to damage the front wing and a front corner. All it takes is for someone to spin in front of you or blow an engine, or perhaps an "off" which puts you into a tire wall.
In my opinion, a typical front corner "event" with the FSCCA will cost approximately the following:
Light Impact:
Front wing $661
Front wing supports(2) $146
Front wing endplates(2) $118
Nose box $614
Top front wishbone $286
Bottom front wishbone $340
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Light Impact Total $2165
Heavy Impact:
Light Impact Total $2168
Front wing flaps(2) $274
Front flap support brackets(2) $34
Upright $531
Front wheel $326
Front floor extension $78
Front splitter $151
Front pushrod $91
Steering arm $71
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Heavy Impact Total $3724
Also take a look at the sidepod and radiator costs. When someone tries his best Juan Pablo Montoya passing move on you and places his front tire deep in your sidepod, the repair bill will be steep indeed:
Top sidepod $462
Bottom sidepod $413
Radiator $602 (yes, that's right, $602....)
Total Sidepod $1477
These are just general estimates of course, and the specific costs of a crash can vary widely, especially when labor costs are factored in. My point is just that those buying this car need to understand that it will not be inexpensive to repair. Of course of your other car is a Swift 014, then these prices probably seem like a bargain. I suppose it's all relative......
I am considering sending an e-mail to Enterprises and the SCCA Board regarding this issue. It probably won't make a difference, but if enough people speak up perhaps some of these prices will come down. In the meantime I will make my purchase decision assuming that a significant portion of my racing budget could end up being spent on parts costs. When it come to crashs I hope for the best, but assume the worst.....