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My-Low-Sol : JR,
Is there some more in-depth info on this?
Not that I have at-hand. I am only repeating what I have read.
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kennysabarese : Just check your state law for HPDE. Most likely it is just the broomstick test like in NJ which just means anything strong above your head.
The key word here is "strong" of course. I would define strong in this context as something that has been designed and tested to hold the weight of the car in a rollover event.
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If you are driving with another organization like SCCA then check with them. Autocross does not require rollbars or anything.
Correct, up to a point. You do not need a roll bar to autocross unless you make certain modifications. Aftermarket seatbelt/shoulder harness being a key one.
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Targa cars are fine in NJ for HPDE and I'd assume any other state.
Coupe should be just fine.
If the RMR bolt on style bar is ok for HPDE than the couple DEFINITELY will be.
There are state laws and there are sanctioning body rules, and the latter are usually more restrictive. NASA, for example, requires a roll bar that meets specifications similar to SCCA, but makes them optional at the discretion of the event organizer.
Based solely on pictures and descriptions I would agree that the coupe's targa bar is stronger than the RMR style bar. But more than nothing may not be enough.
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idkfa : all of the engineers that have spoke and mentioned that the reason for the targa was to save money and time as it could stay classified as an open-top car. I don't know if anyone has any hard evidence to the fact that no extra testing was done but that's how i read it.
That is my interpretation as well.
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that being said.... the only reason a roll bar isn't practical in the vert is the loss of the top functionality. with the couple you wouldn't have that problem.... shouldn't even be a question.
There are some additional issues with interior cockpit clearance, and meeting the limitation on the number of bends in the main hoop, but you are correct that the top is the main problem.