Newbie question about racing costs

[crimedoc]

I'm a criminologist researching street racing/drag racing. I'm curious to know what one might spend on the high side to build a winning car. 50K? 100K? I'm interested in the costs of cars used in illegal speed contests, etc. Street legal cars, not nitro dragsters, etc. Thanks for any insights.

[Mr. Luos]

It really depends on what you consider competing.

A 100% stock Lumina could compete nicely at bracket racing if it is comsistent. $2K out the door maybe.
If you want fast...the compete in say a heads up N/A category, it will get expensive quick. My car would be okay at that. $21K for the car and $13K in go fast mods. Many other mods as well, but I could be where I am powerwise without those.

Mine do would do pretty well on the street as well. But it goes the same there. Anything goes. Cheaper to build a fast boosted car in some cases.


Cost is probably the same. A lot of street racing goes on because of NHRA rules for a rollcage and such. A lot of street car owners don't want a cage but can go faster than 11.49 at the drag strip. Not saying they need to lower the safety requirements. I like those...they are for my safety when I race.
But I would be one of those cars that would get kicked off the track at sea level. No cage and my car would go about 10.9-11.1.

Price can be higher on either car depending on application and race series you plan on competing at.
An all out drag car will cost more than a street car though.