There are always lots of questions when getting into something new. So... I'll give it my best shot to answer what I can for you.
If I buy a used car, should I immediately get the engine rebuilt?
That would depend on how many races are on the engine when you buy a car.
How long do the 1200, 1250, and FZ09 last between rebuilds?
The amount of time between rebuilds can vary depending on how much you plan to race, engine upkeep and what your budget can afford. I know some teams that have them rebuilt after after as few as 30-50 races. I know others that have raced the same engine for 2-3 years. Not a real solid answer for you on that.
Of the three engines, which do you think is the best, overall?
The 1200 is a non-sealed engine. This allows you to do all repairs either on your own or a mechanic of your choosing.
The 1250 is a sealed engine program; So there are only a few repairs you can make on your own. If the seals are tampered with, or the seals are broken, the engines have to be sent in to the engine shop at USLC.
Similar to the 1250, the FZ09 engine is a sealed engine program. Major repairs will require the engine be sent to USLC. Shipping costs and down time are always an issue.
I can't say that one engine is better than the other. They are all equally capable of winning. The 1200 and the 1250 are air cooled engines and are dependent on how much cooling you can get in and around the engine. The FZ09 is a water cooled engine... And therefore requires a radiator, water pump, etc... I have heard a ton of stories on all the engines. I do tend to like the new FZ09 because it is water cooled. Downside is that a wreck can cost a radiator and damage to the engine.
I would have to say that engine choice will be up to you. There is going to be a learning curve either way you go. Perhaps search out a decent car in your area for sale in your budget and start there. Go with whatever engine it comes with.
How many miles per gallon do the legends get?
The fuel cell holds around 4 1/2-5 gallons with the foam. Gas mileage isn't really the issue. Under 10 gallons of fuel likely on any given race day.
What are cut and uncut tires lifespan, in miles?
The new Hoosier tire is not allowed, by rules, to be cut. Not sure what the tire rule will be at your track(s). Wear will also be dependent on your set up and driving style. I don't think any of us measure anything in miles! I know some people that can get a season out of a set of tires, and others that get only a few races.
Should I buy a fire suppression system?
Depends on what you think your life is worth. Rules for INEX only require a fire extinguisher in the car. I know several people that had fire suppression systems and it helped save their lives. In the same respect; Don't cheap out on safety equipment!!!!
After every race, what things should I check on the car?
EVERYTHING!!!! Nuts, bolts, engine, safety gear.... EVERYTHING!!!!!!
Assuming there isn't any damage from the race, how much does each race week cost?
Entry fees, fuel (including towing costs), food is always good
, I plan on no less that $100 per night. That is likely very minimal.
How should I ask businesses for sponsorship - email them, call them, or just show up?
Sponsorship is a really tough question. I would show up in person. Start with family and friends. Bigger sponsors are going to want to know what you are going to do to help them grow their business. Offering to bring the car to their business (because race cars draw in the car crowd), showing the car at car shows or local events, Getting there names out there to the race fans (usually a list on your driver profile and announced at your track as they do driver line ups, etc...). This is now a business! Not just jump in a car and drive. You have to show them that you can help them grow clientele. We have a few old posts on this. Same things still apply.
I would think that certain spots on the car are worth more; how much should I ask for for each specific spot on the car?
This is always a hard question! For larger spots on the car, ask as much as you can get. Maybe take a photo copy of a diagram of your car. (I have a few different body styles in my files that I could send you) I have donated as little as $10-$15 up to $2,000. I owned my own business and was able to write off some as advertising. Read through those old posts on sponsorship. Be creative. I have friends and family that help me out; But for the most part I sponsor myself. My focus is now on Childhood Cancer Awareness. I have people willing to help the cause. Not that I expect to make any money from my racing ventures; But it is nice that I have people that will donate to promote the cause. I have had friends that would put your name on their hood for $25.00. Jim (VMS Motorsports) did a promotion for Paws for the Cause. Get creative!!!!
What should a sponsorship proposal look like?
There are company's that will do this for you. It's not cheap! You can do it on your own; But you have to be willing to pound the pavement and spend some time to promote yourself. It certainly helps if you already have a car so that you have something to show them. They know that you have laid out your money as well as just spending theirs. I spent a lot of my own money throughout my racing ventures. I provided my prospects with my racing biography, pics of the car, plan as to what, where and how many races I plan to run for the season, offering to show the car at their business to promote special sales or events, and the announcements that the track provides during driver introductions.
I hope that helps you some. I hope others will pitch in their thoughts as well. I will answer whatever questions I can for you. Post or message me and I will do my best.
Good Luck,
Steve