Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing?
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From: Arlington, VA
Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing?
We all/most know that you build or buy a car for a series, not the other way around. The normal route then, is to pick out your class, than get your steed.
but...
After spending a couple of hours this a.m. realizing that even in a Kirkey I didn't really fit in a Miata (for now, I am having a "seat" built into the floor), I realized that my thought process had a fatal flaw: tall guys just don't fit into Japanese cars (at least none I've been in).
It seems like a simple enough proposition. In fact, many go through great lengths with miserable seats (Kirkeys) bolted to the floor; removing sections of the floor; getting used to having your knees at the center of the steering wheel; etc. At 6'4", I don't consider myself a giant -- but to the racing world, I guess I am. Accepting that I should just dub my friends "Sprout" and start wearing a leafy sash/sheath, I am left with thinking about what next.
At this point, I am looking for a "driver's car" that could be competitive in a series... with a giant such as myself behind the wheel. I assume German cars are made for leviathans, like myself, but which ones? VWs? BMWs? Porches? Any others? American Iron/Sedan?
Does anyone have an idea of what are the classic giant-fitting cars? Any leads appreciated.
Mark, who should be happy knowing the fun little Miata won't be forced into a life of *****-dom
but...
After spending a couple of hours this a.m. realizing that even in a Kirkey I didn't really fit in a Miata (for now, I am having a "seat" built into the floor), I realized that my thought process had a fatal flaw: tall guys just don't fit into Japanese cars (at least none I've been in).
It seems like a simple enough proposition. In fact, many go through great lengths with miserable seats (Kirkeys) bolted to the floor; removing sections of the floor; getting used to having your knees at the center of the steering wheel; etc. At 6'4", I don't consider myself a giant -- but to the racing world, I guess I am. Accepting that I should just dub my friends "Sprout" and start wearing a leafy sash/sheath, I am left with thinking about what next.
At this point, I am looking for a "driver's car" that could be competitive in a series... with a giant such as myself behind the wheel. I assume German cars are made for leviathans, like myself, but which ones? VWs? BMWs? Porches? Any others? American Iron/Sedan?
Does anyone have an idea of what are the classic giant-fitting cars? Any leads appreciated.
Mark, who should be happy knowing the fun little Miata won't be forced into a life of *****-dom
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From: Raleigh, NC
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (HippoSleek)
At 6'4", I've got 8+ inches of headroom in my civic, have my legs close to fully extended, and could move the seat back far enough that I couldn't depress the clutch...
I sat back scratching my head as not one, but two people around my height on this board have gone out and purchased a miata with hopes of racing. I wonder if Evan will come to the same conclusion you have...
As far as cars go... a 3-series BMW might be something to check out.
I sat back scratching my head as not one, but two people around my height on this board have gone out and purchased a miata with hopes of racing. I wonder if Evan will come to the same conclusion you have...
As far as cars go... a 3-series BMW might be something to check out.
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Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (HippoSleek)
First, a Kirkey doesn't work well for tall guys, because the foam itself is like a 3" booster seat. If you do an FIA shell type seat, with custom brackets, and a custom cage (which means you can gut the bottom part of the dash should you conveniently put the cage in the way), you should fit quite well into an Integra or Civic, unless you're heavyset too.
Warren
Warren
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From: Laguna Niguel, CA, 92677
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (HippoSleek)
A Miata was stretching it for me at 6'1 so I can see how you would have problems. There seem to be alot or larger/taller guys racing mustang so AI might be a good place to go.
If your height is in your legs (mine is in torso) you could probably fit in a Civic hatchback if you want to race Honda Challenge. I fit with no problem, even with longer legs I could make it work with different seat placement and steering wheel extension.
But no matter what you do you will likely end up having to fabricate custom seating and cage.
If your height is in your legs (mine is in torso) you could probably fit in a Civic hatchback if you want to race Honda Challenge. I fit with no problem, even with longer legs I could make it work with different seat placement and steering wheel extension.
But no matter what you do you will likely end up having to fabricate custom seating and cage.
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From: Somewhere, doing a rain dance.
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (AdamITR)
A 3-series BMW, stock, is bit of a tight fit at 6'2" w/no helmet. HOWEVER, my car has a sunroof, which if you can remove, can provide 1.5" of headroom and I still have a stock seat which could probably provide another 1.5" if an aftermarket seat was installed. Unfortunately, there is no steering wheel adjustment on E36 or older BMWs, but the seats move in enough directions that it's usually not a problem.
The advantage of most German cars is that they put the steering wheel in the right place for tall folks. Instead of protruding out of the dash at 30-40°, like a Japanese car, they come out more flat (10-15°) and you can fit your knees underneath it. My biggest complaint of nearly any smaller car is the distance from my chest to the steering wheel... I'm often straight-armed at a distance that fits my legs. Moving the wheel aft would accomplish wonders (the telescoping VW/Audi wheel is a godsend...).
My 2 knuts.
The advantage of most German cars is that they put the steering wheel in the right place for tall folks. Instead of protruding out of the dash at 30-40°, like a Japanese car, they come out more flat (10-15°) and you can fit your knees underneath it. My biggest complaint of nearly any smaller car is the distance from my chest to the steering wheel... I'm often straight-armed at a distance that fits my legs. Moving the wheel aft would accomplish wonders (the telescoping VW/Audi wheel is a godsend...).
My 2 knuts.
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From: formerly elgorey, VIRginia
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (JeffS)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by JeffS »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I sat back scratching my head as not one, but two people around my height on this board have gone out and purchased a miata with hopes of racing. I wonder if Evan will come to the same conclusion you have...
</TD></TR></TABLE>
*sigh*
Im starting to have my doubts. And for more reasons than just the height issue.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
*sigh*
Im starting to have my doubts. And for more reasons than just the height issue.
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From: Kings Mt., NC
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (maxQ)
Matt = 6'3"
I fit into:
SE-Rs (obviously)
Type Rs (no sunroof)
GS-Rs/Civics (with a race seat ONLY)
Neons (
)
Most things German
I cannot seem to fit into a Miata or RX7 of any vintage.
Out of all of these, I'd say an ITsomething Civic will do.
I fit into:
SE-Rs (obviously)
Type Rs (no sunroof)
GS-Rs/Civics (with a race seat ONLY)
Neons (
)Most things German
I cannot seem to fit into a Miata or RX7 of any vintage.
Out of all of these, I'd say an ITsomething Civic will do.
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From: Arlington, VA
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (MaddMatt)
I had an EG that I fit into *okay* w/o a helmet (Si w/ sunroof). Given a racing seat, I'm sure that would work, but in my ideal world I wouldn't be competitively limited to ECHC/small bore.
The point about the steering wheel angle is a good one -- I've never been able to put my finger on it, but does feel like making my legs comfortable requires me to straight arm the wheel in every Japanese car I've owned. This is the type of ergonomic thing that I think I might avoid by going with something European.
And FWIW, where you sit in the Kirkey is not thick foam. The killer is the angle of the layback: A 20 degree seat might fit the torso, but a 10 degree will fit the legs -- a loose/loose proposition for me.
The point about the steering wheel angle is a good one -- I've never been able to put my finger on it, but does feel like making my legs comfortable requires me to straight arm the wheel in every Japanese car I've owned. This is the type of ergonomic thing that I think I might avoid by going with something European.
And FWIW, where you sit in the Kirkey is not thick foam. The killer is the angle of the layback: A 20 degree seat might fit the torso, but a 10 degree will fit the legs -- a loose/loose proposition for me.
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From: Merrimack,, NH, USA
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (MaddMatt)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by MaddMatt »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Matt = 6'3"
I fit into:
SE-Rs (obviously)
Type Rs (no sunroof)
GS-Rs/Civics (with a race seat ONLY)
Neons ( )
Most things German
I cannot seem to fit into a Miata or RX7 of any vintage.
Out of all of these, I'd say an ITsomething Civic will do.</TD></TR></TABLE>
Now I could have sworn you fit into my black car... I thought... hum...
I fit into:
SE-Rs (obviously)
Type Rs (no sunroof)
GS-Rs/Civics (with a race seat ONLY)
Neons (
)Most things German
I cannot seem to fit into a Miata or RX7 of any vintage.
Out of all of these, I'd say an ITsomething Civic will do.</TD></TR></TABLE>
Now I could have sworn you fit into my black car... I thought... hum...
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From: dirty souf
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (HippoSleek)
I'm 6'3" and got an Integra Type R over the GS-R because the lack of sunroof lets me and my helmet fit. Don't know what types of series you're looking at, but other tall people have recommended the WRX to me...
And ditto on the wheel placement issue: I can have my legs comfortable and reach for the wheel, or have my arms right and my knees on the wheel. My instructor recommended knees on the wheel
And ditto on the wheel placement issue: I can have my legs comfortable and reach for the wheel, or have my arms right and my knees on the wheel. My instructor recommended knees on the wheel
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From: Where the hell is Bullhead City, Arizona, U.S.A. Formerly of Huntington Beach, Ca 92649
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (01itr128)
Dude,
I'm 6'4" and 220# (all in the legs) and fit into a 89 Hatch. I agree that Asian cars are designed differently with respect to steering wheel placement and seat postion. The 2 most comfortable cars that I've ever driven are a 911 and new Beetle (hell even old beetles were ok). Besides that, the closest Asian car was a Datsun Z series.
Still looking for seat upgrades and have currently running a deep dished Sparco rally steering wheel and am still getting a hub spacer to bring it even closer to my chest.
Good luck in finding your ride.
CRX's dont fit
I'm 6'4" and 220# (all in the legs) and fit into a 89 Hatch. I agree that Asian cars are designed differently with respect to steering wheel placement and seat postion. The 2 most comfortable cars that I've ever driven are a 911 and new Beetle (hell even old beetles were ok). Besides that, the closest Asian car was a Datsun Z series.
Still looking for seat upgrades and have currently running a deep dished Sparco rally steering wheel and am still getting a hub spacer to bring it even closer to my chest.
Good luck in finding your ride.
CRX's dont fit
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From: Where the hell is Bullhead City, Arizona, U.S.A. Formerly of Huntington Beach, Ca 92649
Re: (JMU1337)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by JMU1337 »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">6'2, I've fit in everything I've sat in aside from a Miata and a Mustang (my feet are too big).</TD></TR></TABLE>
That's cool.....but when you put a helmet on and Autocross as I do......then it starts getting a bit uncomfortable. Besides, it'd look kinda gay with the sunroof open and your helmet popping outta there, wouldn't it? Safe?
That's cool.....but when you put a helmet on and Autocross as I do......then it starts getting a bit uncomfortable. Besides, it'd look kinda gay with the sunroof open and your helmet popping outta there, wouldn't it? Safe?
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From: Arlington, VA
Re: (Mr. B in Az)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Mr. B in Az »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
That's cool.....but when you put a helmet on and Autocross as I do......then it starts getting a bit uncomfortable. Besides, it'd look kinda gay with the sunroof open and your helmet popping outta there, wouldn't it? Safe?</TD></TR></TABLE>
I'm perfectly comfortable in my Civic w/ a helmet and stock seats. I could use an adjustable steering column or lower seats so my legs didn't hit the wheel when I heel-toe, but that's not a big issue.
If your Civic has a sunroof then you have a bad one, sell it. And no, a helmet sticking through it would not be safe.
That's cool.....but when you put a helmet on and Autocross as I do......then it starts getting a bit uncomfortable. Besides, it'd look kinda gay with the sunroof open and your helmet popping outta there, wouldn't it? Safe?</TD></TR></TABLE>
I'm perfectly comfortable in my Civic w/ a helmet and stock seats. I could use an adjustable steering column or lower seats so my legs didn't hit the wheel when I heel-toe, but that's not a big issue.
If your Civic has a sunroof then you have a bad one, sell it. And no, a helmet sticking through it would not be safe.
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From: Where the hell is Bullhead City, Arizona, U.S.A. Formerly of Huntington Beach, Ca 92649
Re: (speedracer33)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by speedracer33 »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">5'8" and I fit in a Civic no problem.... Oh wait. Nevermind.
Matt</TD></TR></TABLE>
OK.....let's Jack this guys' thread and turn it into the "you can reply only if you're over 6'4" thread"......haha LOL
edit: sorry Hipposleek
Matt</TD></TR></TABLE>
OK.....let's Jack this guys' thread and turn it into the "you can reply only if you're over 6'4" thread"......haha LOL
edit: sorry Hipposleek
Joined: Jul 2002
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From: Shiny side up dammit, MO
Re: (Mr. B in Az)
don't know what the rules allow, but have you considered building a seat or buying one that is more layed back, and maybe building some kind of pedal assembly that allows you to stretch your legs a bit....i dunno just a thought.
for reference, i barely fit in our ESP Cobra, have to **** my head to the side, and thats with Recaro's.
for reference, i barely fit in our ESP Cobra, have to **** my head to the side, and thats with Recaro's.
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From: Kings Mt., NC
Re: (carl_aka_carlos)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Now I could have sworn you fit into my black car... I thought... hum...
</TD></TR></TABLE>
Ever see how far above the roll bar my helmeted head was?
I felt like Donkey Kong driving that car...
</TD></TR></TABLE>
Ever see how far above the roll bar my helmeted head was?
I felt like Donkey Kong driving that car...
Joined: Mar 2002
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From: Los Angeles, CA
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (HippoSleek)
Spec Racer Ford - A bunch of big guys in these cars.
Wide cockpit, multiple pedal locations & telescopic steering column. I sold mine to a pretty large guy, and one of the top SRF drivers in the country is big, too. Visit http://www.specracer.com for info and resources about these cars.
Wide cockpit, multiple pedal locations & telescopic steering column. I sold mine to a pretty large guy, and one of the top SRF drivers in the country is big, too. Visit http://www.specracer.com for info and resources about these cars.
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From: building H2 cars, NY
Re: (MaddMatt)
*i win i win*
im 6'7" and i drive a 4th gen civic. i cant fit in a stock s2k (got stuck and the sales lady had to open the door to get me out) or miata. i did drive davidnyc's miata with a race bucket and i could *fit* with a smaller wheel i would have been 'ok' but not ideal. i also sat in rodney's sm sicis and alhough his rails go back pritty far, with the buckets i couldnt moove my right leg cause it was stuck between the seat and steering wheel.
im actually having issues with seat mounting beacuse i think when i get the seat where i want it for my legs, ill be too far for my arms. but we'll see.
download this vid http://www.dgtrials.com/gallery/test_day_2.html and see what a huge guy looks like trying to get into an FC RX7
im 6'7" and i drive a 4th gen civic. i cant fit in a stock s2k (got stuck and the sales lady had to open the door to get me out) or miata. i did drive davidnyc's miata with a race bucket and i could *fit* with a smaller wheel i would have been 'ok' but not ideal. i also sat in rodney's sm sicis and alhough his rails go back pritty far, with the buckets i couldnt moove my right leg cause it was stuck between the seat and steering wheel.
im actually having issues with seat mounting beacuse i think when i get the seat where i want it for my legs, ill be too far for my arms. but we'll see.
download this vid http://www.dgtrials.com/gallery/test_day_2.html and see what a huge guy looks like trying to get into an FC RX7
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: Phoenix, Arizona, United States
Re: (Lo-Buck EF)
I'm 6'7" 280lbs and I work as a car stereo Installer. So I've driven just about every car ever made (at least into and out of the shop.) The most roomy import I've ever driven is the 88-91 CRX!! It's the only car that I can accually lock my knees sraight in.
I Autocross my '91 Civic hatch and I fit fine with the helmet on. I started with the stock seat and now I have a pair of Paseo seats. Eventually I'd like to put a pair of racing seats in there but the car is still my daily driver so I need comfort.
I do agree with the steering wheel issue, but if your racing class allows it, you can get extensions that fit just about any aftermarket steering wheel.
In fact in general, Hondas always seem to have more room than just about any other car. Definately any other Japaneeze car.
I Autocross my '91 Civic hatch and I fit fine with the helmet on. I started with the stock seat and now I have a pair of Paseo seats. Eventually I'd like to put a pair of racing seats in there but the car is still my daily driver so I need comfort.
I do agree with the steering wheel issue, but if your racing class allows it, you can get extensions that fit just about any aftermarket steering wheel.
In fact in general, Hondas always seem to have more room than just about any other car. Definately any other Japaneeze car.
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From: Houston, TEXAS, USA
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (HippoSleek)
Race cars for Giants = compact trucks! I think that's what I'd like to do once I've built up the integra and tested her out for a few years. With toyota celica seats (height adjustable) and a hybrid slider system, my helmeted head is now free from hitting the roof of the Tacoma while my legs and arms are at nearly perfect distances. I never felt comfortable in the integra with my head crooked from the extra thickness the sunroof adds. Plus to be able to correctly control the steering wheel meant suicide for my knees and neck...bah! I think with it gutted and mounting in Kirky Intermediate LW "Light weights" I will have no problem with headroom and leg/arm distance.
Vracer111, who thinks road-racing trucks are awesome...
Vracer111, who thinks road-racing trucks are awesome...
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From: Indianapolis, IN, USA
Re: Race Cars for Giants -- such a thing? (Mr. B in Az)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Mr. B in Az »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">CRX's dont fit</TD></TR></TABLE>
You have got to be huge if you can't fit in my CRX. Sunroof removed, Corbeau Forza mounted to the floor, I'm 6'3" (about even legs/torso) and I've got lots of room behind the seat and lots of room above my head. I need to get a snap-off steering wheel with an extension, but other than that it's pretty roomy
You have got to be huge if you can't fit in my CRX. Sunroof removed, Corbeau Forza mounted to the floor, I'm 6'3" (about even legs/torso) and I've got lots of room behind the seat and lots of room above my head. I need to get a snap-off steering wheel with an extension, but other than that it's pretty roomy