I knew I could count on you guys for some great advice - thanks, that's exactly what I was looking for. I may go ahead and give it a shot this weekend, if I can pass tech with my black antifreeze! I want to get started so I can begin my path of improving.

I guess I'll remain stock to get started in autocross so I can get MY skills down. Thanks again for your replies.

Don Francis - 1999 Contour Zetec MTX -- Stock except for stereo mods & 20%/5% tint:
Sony MobileES head unit, Pioneer 6x8 in front doors, 3 JL Audio 10" in the trunk, RF Punch amp pushing the doors, JL 300x2 amp on the 10s
Auto X Novice --> NHS 11 (ya gotta start somewhere) - thanks auto x guys for your advice!