Long time lurker here, and one who's been infatuated with PFM's for quite some time now. I'm considering making the jump, as the performance per $ seems unmatched anywhere else. But, I do have some concerns and maybe someone here can relate and offer up their own experience...
For background, I currently race in the most popular class within the Porsche Club of America. I love the large fields, close competition, friendly paddock, and that there is a clear cut championship to chase. But I've been eyeing up open wheel cars for while, and for a minimal cash outlay I could sell my Porsche and get into a PFM
Couple thoughts/concerns about the PFM:
-Where do I race it, and how large are the fields? SCCA seems like a political nightmare from what I understand, but I could race in FA as long as I'm OK with not competing for wins. FRP is another option, but I'm pretty sure they require you to have a crew, which I likely would not. Which brings me to my next question...
-Can I self-support one of these at the track by myself? Assuming it's prepped by a race shop in between events, is it possible to go solo for a race weekend? I've used support with the Porsche club, and I've also done it solo...I've found that the support isn't worth the $$$
-What are the running costs like? Any one care to share cost/hour or something along those lines?
Basically, I'm of the opinion that going PFM would mean more money and less track time & competition, but as high a level of performance that I'll ever achieve without hitting the Powerball - any one have any thoughts to confirm/deny this?
Thanks!
EDIT: I should add that while I think PFM is the best bang for the buck, I also perceive it to be safer than the tube-frame classes due to the carbon tub...I've got two little kids who want me to stick around for a while longer, so safety is paramount. Am I right in my thinking here? And possibly irresponsible to even consider open wheel?