Andy
Welll what I have noticed over the years is simple. As the caliber of racing gets better most of the drivers are very talented and can use a car and motor to the fullest capabilities. So if it was a horse race I would bet on the motor.
Now we move down a notch or two to Mini Sprint Racing or now to D2 Midgets. We are presented with a different set of variables. The motors are pretty equal even when hot roded in the case of the Mini Sprint. When an engine is producing 3+ horsepower per cubic inch in it's "STOCK" tune there is not a lot left to do but make it more manageable. With numbers like this a 410 sprint motor would be producing 1200 to 1400 Horsepower.
Now the drivers experience in the lower class might range from a couple of months to 20+ years. In many instances drivers with years of experience in racing in the upper echelon of racing are returning to their roots in Mini Sprints and D2 Midgets because of the cost versus performance aspect of these cars.
All of that being said in the case of D2 or Mini Sprint racing I would be inclined to bet on the driver as opposed to the motor. I understand some teams are actually hiring older more experienced drivers to race for them in search of that elusive but always wanted win.
You young racers out their getting beat all the time please don't drink the Kool Aid. A good motor and chassis won't help much in the experience department. Have fun and work on your driving and set up expertise. Get an in car lap timer and race yourself. "Good Better Best>>Never let It Rest>>Until Your Good Is Better And Your Better Is Best"
Honest Dad himself
