By David Wallens

Grassroots Motorsports

History is littered with automotive entrepreneurs who were convinced that they could build a better mousetrap. One such person was Gary Davis, and his space-aged, postwar creation was the Davis. Yes, it’s a three-wheeler, and 18 were built before the company collapsed in 1948.

The Lane Motor Museum has one of the few remaining cars, and I recently got to go for a ride. Interesting feature: Thanks to the three-wheeled setup, it can nearly do 360-degree turns within its own wheelbase.

By David Wallens

Grassroots Motorsports

Ever wonder how a car magazine operates? It is housed in a glass tower manned by impeccably dressed execs? Well, in our case, no. We’re just a bunch of dorks in a renovated art deco building located a few minutes from Daytona International Speedway. However, you’re welcome to come tour the facility, as we’re holding an open house this coming Saturday. Details at Grassroots Motorsports

By David Wallens

Grassroots Motorsports

I’ve been tempted to do this but just haven’t. Have an extra wheel? Then why have a boring plastic hose reel. For some reason, it just seems wrong to do this to the spare PIAA wheel that’s sitting in my garage.

By David Wallens

Grassroots Motorsports

I recently checked out a friend’s jalopy racer, a real one built back in the ’50s. Lightweight body panels weren’t an option back then, but creative ways still existed for jettisoning some weight.

By David Wallens

Grassroots Motorsports

Honestly, it’s been a while since I have done a good road trip. Our production schedule keeps me busy, meaning if I have to cover long distances an airplane is generally the correct answer.

However, I recently covered 1500 miles while retrieving my new car. You know, every now and then you need to hit the road. It can be a great way to relax and think. And there’s something kind of mysterious about rolling into a new town just as the sun goes down.

By David Wallens

Grassroots Motorsports

Wow, how time flies. One minute we’re preparing for the Rolex 24 At Daytona, and all of a sudden it’s summer. Where does the time go? While my autocross season has started on a slow note, at least I have something new to show for my time. The most recent addition to the fleet is a Porsche 911 Carrera. Anyone else buy anything cool recently?

By Rob Einaudi

Editor-in-Chief

I love surprises. I love finding that I already assigned a story that I thought had fallen through the cracks, and I love hearing from old friends. The Kia Soul is a most pleasant surprise. To be honest, I expected some sort of cut-rate boxy transport device.

While it is shaped like a box, the details are extremely impressive for this class of car. I’m talking about switches, knobs and interior details that easily meet—and in some cases beat—those found in similar vehicles from Japan. Look out world, the Koreans really are here.

By David Wallens

Grassroots Motorsports

This summer marks our 25th year of publishing Grassroots Motorsports. How time flies when you’re having fun, right? The big celebration takes place during the GRM Speedfest at the Classic Motorsports Mitty, April 30-May 3 at Road Atlanta.

Other activities on the weekend’s card include HSR historic racing, a huge Miata race, MX-5 Cup, Group 44 tribute, a gigantic Mazda gathering and free test drives in the latest Lotus cars. Hope to see everyone there. Details at GrassrootsMotorsports.com

By David Wallens

Grassroots Motorsports

I hear this a lot from people: Oh, I’m an excellent driver. Care to see how you can do against the clock? I’ve been autocrossing for more than 15 years, and it’s a great way to relieve some stress and also push a car to the limit in a safe, controlled environment. It’s also a good, healthy social scene plus a great introduction to other performance events, like track days and road racing. Want to give it a shot? Check with your local SCCA Region or other sports car club.

By David Wallens

Grassroots Motorsports

I know that some parts of the country are currently experiencing a cold snap, but in Florida anyway,  spring is here. Time to get the cool car out of the garage and kick out the cobwebs. We have been giving our Mini Cooper a little extra love. A couple of weeks ago we took it to our local hotrod cruise night. It might not have been the fastest or most expensive car, but it surely turned some heads. Has everyone else gotten their ride out of mothballs yet?