Originally posted by roadRacer
then definately put track tires on stock rims and get what you want for the street. Align suspension with as much negative camber as possible in the front (you will still want more than is available) and as much positive caster as possible. Set the toe to the out side of zero (this might be a little too squirrely for the street, you can judge for yourself). If that is too much set it as close as you can to the toe-out side of the factory settings. I do my own alignments so it doesn't cost anything (ask me how if you don't already know). Shocks will add more than you think they will. See if you can find yourself a set of used R compound tires like Trip did, that you can abuse in the learning process. Either go to a pro race or something like that where they are tossing away piles of them or buy a set from some other well funded road racer or autocrosser (I got mine for $100/set with about half tread). Then have fun in the learning process. Spend your first few months driving your car at every autocross you can afford to attend and have a blast. After 3-6 months the desire to become competitve will make you figure out the best things to spend money on modifying your car.
My idea of the best way to start autocrossing. Your Mileage May Vary.
I found an oil pan that I think will fix my problem/worry. Moroso makes a twin baffled 6 1/4 quart pan for like $258. That's going to be my next upgrade.