As far as the discussion about the base model RSX for HS: I truly think this is a great car for the class. In '06, I was so convinced of this that I co-drove Scott's car at Nationals (thanks again Scott!), even though I had my MINI there. Despite driving the car like a$$ at this event, I still am convinced that it is a nationally competitive car in the right hands and with the right tweaking. The RSX is a tad heavy, and the spring rates are a little flabby for its weight, but it makes up for this with good torque and balanced handling. It will crush a MINI in sweepers and pulling out of tight corners, but the MINI will still win out in quick transitions.
As far as discussions about shocks: it depends heavily upon the car. I do think that the RSX would benefit from aftermarket adjustable shocks/struts, but some cars can do well on the stock dampers. I've owned two MINIs that have won ProSolo season championships ('02 and '06) on the factory non-adjustable units (with factory wheels and exhaust, too - but that's another discussion!). But - most stock-classed vehicles will undoubtedly benefit from adjustable shocks/struts for autocross applications.
Marshall
'06 HS MINI Cooper - Daily driver
'99 Miata Hard Top - Bone stock
'72 L28 240Z - Sold!