When I was vintage racing with SVRA and HSR in a 66 Shelby about twelve years ago, we had a few simple rules: 1. If you drop a wheel off the racing surface, they call you in and talk to you about your driving. 2. If you get completely off the track, you sit out the race for over agressive driving. 3. If you cause an accident, you are invited not to return for the rest of the season. We were told our engine had to P&G at 289 CID, max .30 overbore, we could not even update to a 302. No alumimum heads or trick suspension, use the stock stuff. All these "safety" modifications were not allowed. We ran period discs up front, drums in the back. You actually had to shift the old top loader. Wheels were 15 x 7 not 8 or 10. Fire systems, safety harnesses, fuel cell, safety fuel cut off switches, and roll bars (roll cage recommended) were required. You could not run a clone, only the real McCoys ran. The stroker motors were just starting to appear. Roller rockers were the big cheat. Most of the cars arrived on open trailers, only one or two campers could be found in the pits. That was only 12 years ago, how far we have come. Vintage racing is modern cars, thinly disguised in sorta kinda looks right sheet metal. We would never think of trying to muscle someone out of the way. Everyone knew everyone and we laughed, partied, drove as fast as 1966 technology would allow and had a hell of a lot of fun. Accidents were usually single car and a result of equipment failure or brain fade. Why did I quit? Too much money / time needed to be competitive, and most of us that race are naturally competitive. Vintage racing has developed into what it is because that is what the competitors wanted when they looked the other way at modifications. Why else would they keep everything stock (WINK WINK WINK). My son and I are building a Shelby clone out of a 65 fastback. I thought about a tricked out vintage car but the reality of it all is that money and not being able to afford to run nixed the idea. We are going to make an absolutely accurate 65 R Model clone, with minimum mufflers. It will be street licensed, autocrossed and run in open track events. I have considered building a 351 for it, but a hot 289 does have that unique sound. Check in a year from now, maybe it will be ready for SAAC at VIR, always did love that track. LEE MATHIAS
