Considering 355 or 360 challenge for HPDE

I would go with the 360 Challenge because it will simply have that real race car feel in everyway.

You already have a 355 and the 355 Challenge was the most tame of all the challenge cars, evidenced by them being largely street legal still. The 355 and then 355 Challenge is very redundant to own and it THAT much different than a regular 355.

The 360 Challenge transmission is very good and you won’t miss not having a stick.

Definitely 360.

 

I may add a 360 challenge as well, perfect for track days.

 

Lots of unscrupulous sellers so be sure to get service history and PPI. It was likely wrecked multiple times but as long as it was put together properly you should be good.

 

I can't speak to hours of use, wear parts, etc. but I can offer this....

As a track car you are completely capable of removing the driveline yourself. You can buy the tools for your garage like a set of quick jacks and an engine hoist for less than the cost of your first major rebuild labor hours. I would say the 360 is very well documented on working in a DIY setting and (first world problems, right?) you aren't counting on the car running every weekend so a few months down is fine.

Once you have the motor out, any competent machine shop can do the work for you. Pistons and valves can all be ordered custom sizes and you'd be amazed how many companies produce these parts. Not trying to convince you of buying a clunker but the undocumented nature of many at this point (these are 20 years old) is a risk I'd be willing to jump into. I have heard wheel bearings are an issue on the 360 Challenges, as are finding track tires in the size you need. 430's have a more common tire now, although both are expensive the 430 stock seems easier to find.

Good luck in your journey, I'm not far behind you. I've driven them all on track and I am fond of the 355 exhaust note. 360's are great DE cars, I agree and a good value in the market.