Ran my first AX, , now what to do about those pesky Miatas Options

[blitZ]

I ran my first AX today, had a blast and will become a regular. The SCCA group here in Atlanta run a nice event, lots of help for newbies like me. I ran the novice group but will be in Stock C class next, along with 10 or so Miatas.

Got a few questions for the seasoned AXers. Can I expect to compete with the Miatas? My best time was 10 seconds or so behind them. Certainly lots of practice and setup will help. Anyone else in CS class, who would like to share enhancements they have added.

I currently have a fairly healthy stock 2.0. I replaced the shocks with Bilsteins and the rear springs with 180lb coils. I have a stock 15mm front sway and have removed the rear sway to compensate for the big rear springs. The car corners well. The car needs new tie rods and ball joints, so I plan to replace them and install a bump steer kit while I'm at, so I can lower the car, if I want.

I have 2.0 Fuchs with the Semperit tires (195/60/15), which came with the car. I plan to get some better tires, perhaps Kumho or Coopers in a 205/55/15. Is this worth while or should I invest in some wider wheels, not much available in the 4 bolts pattern.

[SirAndy]

Can I expect to compete with the Miatas?

i have two words for you:

slippery slope

and you're standing right at the top. down at the end you can see what looks like the trophy for your class-win. all you have to do is step on the slope and throw as much money as you can in all directions, with BOTH hands, while you slide down slowly.
by the time you reach the bottom of the slope, your pockets will be empty, the miata's will be history, you'll hold the trophy in your hands, your wife will have left you (and she took the kids with her) but somehow, you have never felt better in your life!

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/smilie_pokal.gif) Andy