If you couldn't tell already, I have a preference for autocross vs. the big track. Don't get me wrong, I like both and in fact, I find the track experience to be much more thrilling. However, there are a number of reasons why I haven't done many track events. Namely, the much higher cost to attend such events (event fees, extra gas, plus hotel), the usually longer time to get to the tracks (most are 100+ miles away), and of course...the very real possibility of completely destroying your car and not being covered by insurance. If those weren't things to be concerned about, I'd be there more often = ).

I've actually only driven on 3 big tracks, but one of them includes the world-famous Nurburgring! The other two are local CA tracks - Willow Springs International Raceway and Buttonwillow. Willow Springs is a simple but fast track. I don't go 10/10ths on the track, maybe 9 at most, but oh it was fun! Pedal to the metal action that you won't get with the slower speed autocrosses. Once I got used to the track, it felt like a video game to me. Buttonwillow is more technical and felt like a big, fast autocross to me. They run alot of different configurations, and I'd love to go back and try them out. Finally of course, there's "The Ring". I got the chance to drive there while visiting Germany with a friend who was buying his Porsche GT3. It was a private Porsche-only event, so I had to rent a Porsche myself ( a 911 Carrera S no less ). I don't have to drive many tracks to know that it is by far, the best in the world. 13+ miles, 78+ turns, a 3-mile long straight, the infamous carousel, and elevation changes. Its so big, the weather may be different depending on where you're on course! For anyone who loves to drive, you MUST go! It will help if you have autox/track experience, but definitely an experience not to be missed.

On some other tracks, I've tagged along and rode shotgun. Tracks like the smaller Streets of Willow, plus Infineon Raceway and the equally world-famous Laguna Seca. Riding along is more fun than a roller coaster IMO. And I've also learned alot just by observing. Bottom line - if its in your budget and you're willing to accept the risks, its a ton of fun. I still advocate learning autox first, but if you're ready, then the track is the next level.