Yes, most Stang owners, if they even go to the track, usually mean dragstrip. Now I am not judging and saying that's a bad thing. Drag strips are fun.
But I too have found it hard to find info on this particular site. It doesn't even have a section for road racing. Mainly due to lack of member interest I suspect.
HOWEVER....to get to your question. Even with your experience, it's always good to go out in the car in stock form so you can see what you can do with it. See where you need to better tune the car to your skills.
When I say stock, I do mean of course you still doing the minimum preps though. Change the brake fluid, change the brake pads. As well as the long check list of other items I am sure you're familar with.
These newer cars are setup fairly well in stock form. Since you do have experience, eventually you will most likely want to bolt up any of the handling packages out there along with a BBK.
These packages replace the sway bars, springs, shocks and adds a strut tower brace. All designed to tighten the car up and allow for more grip. With the adjustable sways you can combat understeer as well.
If you are going to hit the track more than twice a year, investing in a quality coil-over kit would be wise too.
Light weight wheels and race tires would be good obviously. Reducing unsprung weight always a plus.
Our cars are nose heavy so I'd suggest running equal width wheels/tires at all four corners. You'll have to catch yourself at turn exit when you hit the gas but at least going in you'll be much more neutral. Allows you to brake much later.
Cooling wise these cars are setup pretty good. I wouldn't run in the summer months in the Southwest on stock cooling, but that's about it.
As always a race clutch and flywheel will only help reduce wear on your motor so that's something to consider. Different combos offer give and take for streetability versus tracking. So things to consider there too.
Good luck and have fun!
