[renesisdrms]

for future reference, if you buy a hard top, would you still need a 4 pt. roll bar if you compete later on in the future in autox?
or should i just invest in a roll bar instead, if you are goin to need a roll bar no matter what in autox competition?
decisions, decision!
any facts and opinions will be a great help.
currently have a non-functional style bar but know it probably wouldn't pass tech

 

[freedomgli]

Neither a hard top nor a roll bar are necessary for auto-x if you just plan on doing if for fun. If you ever want to do "track days" such as HPDE, hill climbs, or time trials (Solo1) then you will need an appropriate roll bar as a hard top alone will not suffice. A hard top and roll bar serve different functions. Get whichever you want. People have long argued the merits both pro and con of either/both. But if you want to be competitive at auto-x being as light as possible is important.

 

[LagunaMiata]

If you want to use any kind of restraint beyond the stock seat belt you MUST have a real roll bar. The eBay / Racing Beat / Frenzy style bars won't cut it.

Like Kyle said, most of the top AX Miatas don't have bars because of weight.

More AX questions? Just ask!

 

[freedomgli]

Your best bet is to read the rules posted by whichever organization you intend to autocross with. If you plan on doing SCCA Solo2 then be sure to read everything on the national website and on your region's website about autocross including the 2006 Solo Rules.pdf and the Solo2 Novice Handbook. Then if you still have questions you'll be better able to ask them.