Race car log book

[michael lang]

I have found a car that I'm fairly serious about buying. It's an '88 Carrera a lot like mine the only difference it's set up for club racing. The seller is has told me that he has an up to date log book. Now, I already know the car in general because it's very much like what I have and what to expect so I'm not worried about that.
My question is what is a race car log book? How does one read it and what type of info should I be looking for in the book?
Thanks in advance, unlike my first Pcar purchase I'm having to figure what I want as I go along where as before I knew exactly what I wanted so it's been a little frustrating.

[KennyB]

The log book is required by sanctioning bodies to document the basic elements of the car, (year, make, body style, drivetrain, etc.) as well as any significant modifications, racing class, results of tech inspections (along with proof that any deficiencies have been corrected) etc. There really isn't any secret info in there, and it's only necessary for racing. If you plan to buy a race car, looking at the logbook might reveal info you might want to know before buying.

[saucerman]

here is an example of a log book (no data though)

[Dan Yonker]

Dude - If it has a log book, then it was likely raced. Race cars take heavy abuse. Assuming this is a race car that is also street legal, you need to pay particular attention to normal wear and tear items, engine compression/leakdown, drivetrain/suspension wear, repairs to body panels,.... the list goes on. A very thorough PPI is recommended.

[michael lang]

Well the car was/is raced, and yes it is also tagged. That's why I am being cautious. In talking with the owner I do not think this car came close to its potential but then again he could be misrepresenting himself. That's why I'm asking, in case I should be looking for something specific in the log book that I'm not seeing or asking about.

[Phokaioglaukos]

You should also see in the logbook how many races the car did by whom (although a new logbook may have been issued at some time so older data may not appear). Look carefully, but many PCA racers drive no harder than those doing DEs. Ask also who did race prep and ask for those records. I got a scary amount of data from the PO of my car. The dollars were deep, but not as deep as Dan's!