Newbie with a question

I've always had a soft spot for 356 speedsters and stumbled on this forum a couple days ago. Let me say there are some awesome looking cars on this site!!!

I have no idea what they drive like, though...I understand there is probably quite a bit of variation between manufacturers/builders...but how would you generally describe the drive? My points of reference would be a '56 Austin Healey 100, '81 911 SC, '02 Miata, and '00 Honda S2000.

Thanks, and again, cool cars and cool site!
-Jeff

Hi Jeff and Welcome,

I have owned 2 '56 AH BN-2's in the past, the only year they made 4 cylinders and 4 speeds. It was fun to drive, but doesn't come close to the handling of a modern replica.

As you said, there is a huge difference between a standard but shortened VW frame with a 1600 air cooled engine as an entry level model and the tube frame, well setup, high HP engines that some of the makers now offer.

With proper setup, suspension, tires, and HP, these cars go fast, corner well, track straight, stop safely, and put a SIG on your face.

You'll get lots of advice about makers, options, etc. Take your time and look around. Let others know where you live, and you'll get an invitation to drive one. Best of luck, and welcome again.

Jeffrey, several folks wil recommend that you attend one of our events. That's the most efficient way to gain as much info as possible. Watch the events section for one near you. I did woefully little research before committing to a build. I just got REALLY lucky with finding Carey Hines & Special Edition.

Thanks, guys....

Jim, the 100 is my Dad's...fun car by glad to hear the replicas handle a bit more modern :)

Tom, you have a Beck? It sounds like you're pretty happy with it...

I will not be in a position to buy anything for some time, just gaining info and having fun learning at this point...

-Jeff

Just bought my first one after wanting one for about 15 years now. It is heavenly. Probably one of the coolest cars driving around Jacksonville Florida right now. I have a red Vintage Speedster (2000 build with 1600miles on it)and after doing my homework, found out that it really comes down to preference. I just heard more good things about Vintage than the others and got mine for a great deal. I looked at a CMC, and it was really beat up. I got lucky on ebay, my car showed up exactly how it was listed, but will tell you the CMC i looked at was local, it was also on ebay but I was able to go look at it and good thing I didnt bid. So, be very careful where you buy it from. Most of the peeps on here will know who owns the car! Plus - there is a guy on here named Troy who has about 600 of these cars in his garage so when you do get ready to buy, chances are you can find one on here...with HONEST answers about its condition.

Jeffrey, you bet!

What did that advertisement cost you Troy? Oh and BTW Jim... it's SEG not SIG... just clearing the air here... LOL...

Hi David, Thx, just saw my typo.

The SIG (Sigsauer 1911) goes under the seat.

Wolfgang---what a coincidence---same here except it's a P-239.

The absolute best advice I offer to someone just breaking in would be to do a lot of research on this forum. You can learn a lot reading what others have gone through and what they have to say. The second thing, as stated above, would be to look at the different makes at an event where there will be many people eager to show you their cars and probably even take you for a spin or better yet, let you drive their car. Good luck and welcome. Now start reading.

No worries Jim.. if you only have one typo on this site you're way ahead of the game here... :-) trust me on that onwe!