I am looking to get into racing in SCCA and would appreciate some advice on which class to start in. I am probably going to get a WRX (possibly STi), when I graduate from college. I want to compete in road racing on a track with other cars. I might do some autocrossing but I'd prefer something more high-speed, such as club racing. I also want to be able to drive my car normally and race it without changing to much to the vehicle. Any suggestions as to which class I should look into?

 Not legally...  But the WRX makes a great autocross car.

Of course some folks like to start road-racing for a few years to build up their skills before tackling autocross.... ;-)

Under the circumstances you might have to start in the deep end of the pool?

(Merry Christmas)

More seriously - here are a few reasons why a dual purpose daily driver/race car DOES work in autocross, and why it's fun and worth doing...

1. no roll cage required

2. outstanding means of learning car control (which for most folks takes longer than we think it will)

3. supportive and expert community - a progression from novice to Regional to National which is a tall ladder that few reach the top of

4. relatively affordable - at the regional level I race twice a month and spend less than a grand for the season (or that's my story anyway...)

5. transferable skills - confidence at the edge of traction helps with road racing (and on the street too if sh*t happens)

6. mental challenge - an autocrosser on course is making decisions at a higher rate than a driver on a road course

7. less personal risk - flatbed trucks and ambulances are not present at an autocross, I have a reasonable expectation that I'll drive home in my own car

8. less financial risk - one should never put a car on a racetrack that one cannot afford to write off

But if you have your heart set on road racing, more power to you!

Kind regards,

Charlie

It sounds like the OP would be a great candidate for autocrossing. You could try some HPDE's to fulfill your need for speed, but it isn't racing, thus your car wouldn't be classed. 

Thanks to everyone for all the informative, and quick, responses. I've definitely gained a better perspective on my situation. It seems that road racing is probably a bit out of my price range (and probably many peoples) since you can't race your daily driver and need additional money for various other costs (i.e. trailer, tires, maintenance, parts). I will give autocross a try and I will probably enjoy it just as well.

 I agree with Charlie's post wholeheartedly.  I've been doing track days and SCCA Solo for a coupe of years and found both to be a great way to develop skills like looking ahead, smoothness of inputs (brake, brake release, throttle) and patience.  That being said, if you really have your sights on club racing but are unsure of what car/class you're interested in, you could show up at a race weekend and ask the drivers questions.  Next, you could rent a car or various types of cars to see which one you like best.  I'll be renting a Spec Miata this season to do some Club Racing.  If I like it, I'll have my local speed shop convert my track/autocross Miata into a SM for the following season.  Good luck and have fun!

/Rich