Where to begin with doing Targa....
First of all “Targa” currently is 3 events (High Country, Wrest Point and Tasmania) and this will be expanded to 4 events (Adelaide) next season. The one that everyone hears about is Targa Tasmania however, I would recommend you start with one of the smaller events to get your head around exactly how it all works.
The best car for Targa depends on the class you wish to run in so the first place to start is to read the rules and determine which category best suits you and your car. We run all of ours in Showroom as this is easily the most regulated and the modifications are limited. There are a couple of freedoms that I personally believe should not be there but generally it’s not too bad. The NC is the only model MX5 eligible for Showroom although the earlier ones can run in a couple of different classes depending on mods and age. If you want to win then perhaps consider another car as the NA or NB will struggle to be competitive in either of these categories.
I would recommend you get a car with ABS and keep the air-conditioning. The ABS will save you everyday during a Targa event and the a/c will keep your visibility clear when it rains - and believe me when I tell you it WILL rain.....
Get the best 6 point roll cage you can afford with particular emphasis on the side protection. I would not have a cage that extends into the strut towers but instead let the crumple zones work as intended. Same for harnesses and belts – although the “wrap around head” ones are very good it is almost impossible to get one into a MX5 that allows you to get in and out with a hardtop on.
Be aware that the support team you have around you is very important as basic repairs and service may be needed and some things like spare wheels and tyres (in the event of punctures) are must haves. Other things like limited supply of fuel (Esp 98 octane) are important if you car can only run on this. We carry enough spares to keep our cars going under just about all circumstances and this takes 3 service vehicles and 6 service crew for Targa. We have 48 wheels and tyres for TT alone.....
The best advice I can offer anyone considering doing Targa is preparation is key. Everything (and I mean everything) has to be checked and double checked. Every one of our cars has a full strip down and check before each season with all bits like clutches, brakes, discs, etc replaced. All the parts in our cars are “lifed” and dismantled, inspected, repaired or replaced at predetermined intervals.
Don’t underestimate the costs involved. There is obviously the cost of the car, which can run into many tens of thousands depending on what you choose. Then there is the entry, accommodation, tyres, meals, transport to and from the event (by ship), service crew costs, fuel, stage notes, etc, etc.... The absolute minimum budget would be around $15,000 not including the car (or any damage to it during the event).
And remember the most important thing is to have fun but, be careful, as it is very addictive!!
. Couldn't help myself, I went and test drove one and fell in love haha, so no money for a Targa car.
