Top 5 Finish in our 2022 BRZ - PCA Los Angeles Autocross - 7/31/23

Photo Credit: Ken Suzuki / @slow_car_slow

After plenty of tire and suspension tuning on our 2022 BRZ, the good results have slowly started to trickle in each event. The autocross event with PCA LA at Lake Elsinore Storm Stadium was no exception! Although the course definitely favored high-powered cars with multiple slow corners into long acceleration zones, I managed to put the car 2/85 in BRI/PAX and 5/85 in raw time (sixth on the official results after I drove a 911 Turbo - to be reported on in a future post)! A class win in CC08 class as well. This course also had a 'drag race' start, with about 100 feet of full acceleration at the start. I was able to practice launching the car with the parking brake, and it was worth nearly 4 tenths of a second when done correctly (while also being loads of fun). The consistency of these launches is great on course, but can put significant wear on the drivetrain. Good thing these launches are only necessary at ProSolo events! 

While the Yokohamas have 60+ runs on them and minimal tread depth, the smooth surface at Storm Stadium is very forgiving of that. However, braking early and smooth was extremely important as I found in my early runs; the front tires would easily get overwhelmed by the Brembo 4 piston / Carbotech XP8 setup if trail braking was done too late. 

The CUSCO Zero-3X suspension, revalved and tuned by Damperworks, has been incredible in its feedback and driveability. We have found that a very stiff front end, just on the cusp of bouncing mid-corner, and a softer rear end have yielded great results. Oversteer will only occur on corner exit, and the steering becomes very communicative before the rear end will let go. Understeer only becomes an issue on corner entry if braking, especially trail braking, is done too late as I mentioned earlier. 

Full results of the event can be found here: PCA AX 7/31 PAX

We will be at two different events this upcoming weekend, so stay tuned for more results!