Track day in an auto?

skmattwell · Post by **skmattwell** » Tue Nov 23, 2021 6:57 am

Have been toying with the idea of taking my 2003 roadster to the track, however it is an automatic. Is this unusual or are autos commonplace on circuits these days?

Also wary that I don't want to knacker it, as she's got 125k on the clock and I plan on making that 200k by the time I'm willing to let go.

firebobby · Post by **firebobby** » Tue Nov 23, 2021 7:59 am

You can click the gear stick to the left and use it as a clutchless box, in auto with the sports button pressed, you should have fun.
As long as your car has been serviced and all your levels are good, your engine should easily hit 200k.

Rockhopper · Post by **Rockhopper** » Tue Nov 23, 2021 10:08 am

You probably end up using your brakes a bit harder than in a manual car so make sure they are in top nick.

Wigsters · Post by **Wigsters** » Tue Nov 23, 2021 10:29 am

As all have said, so long as your car is well maintained all should be good. You are doing it for fun not to win a race

One thing to watch for though is that the auto box in sport/manual will still change up a gear if it feels inclined (ie, peak power and full throttle). That can catch you out on a fast corner if you are not expecting it. I know this courtesy on my old 530d and a lump of unexpected torque that tried to introduce me to a bush

The E85 may have different software I suppose, but it is maybe something you should test for yourself.

skmattwell · Post by **skmattwell** » Wed Nov 24, 2021 5:21 pm

Thanks guys, all good info! She's a bit like my girlfriend then, you have to wine and dine her first

enuff_zed · Post by **enuff_zed** » Wed Nov 24, 2021 5:29 pm

skmattwell wrote: ↑Wed Nov 24, 2021 5:21 pm Thanks guys, all good info! She's a bit like my girlfriend then, you have to wine and dine her first

Wow!
Does she change up a gear when you least expect it too?

brillomaster · Post by **brillomaster** » Wed Nov 24, 2021 5:45 pm

exactly like your girlfriend

when you get started, be sure to get everything nice and warm first...
start slow, build up the pace gradually...
it can get a bit sore after a while, so don't stay on it too long.
and remember to cuddle afterwards!

enuff_zed · Post by **enuff_zed** » Wed Nov 24, 2021 7:31 pm

brillomaster wrote: ↑Wed Nov 24, 2021 5:45 pm exactly like your girlfriend

when you get started, be sure to get everything nice and warm first...
start slow, build up the pace gradually...
it can get a bit sore after a while, so don't stay on it too long.
and remember to cuddle afterwards!

Wouldn't recommend the kickdown though.

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