Building a DSM really wouldn’t be worth the money. They were great cars in their day. But there are MUCH better starting points now. If you are looking to get into rally you are going to need:
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Service Vehicle/Tow Vehicle: this one is simple, if you think you are going to drive your car to and from an event without something breaking then you are on crack.
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Trailer: This goes with the above, its something to drag your car back home after you roll or center punch a tree ( which EVERYONE does eventually)
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Lots of parts cars: Between the rocks and trees and the driving like an asshat( which is the real purpose of rallying) something is gonna break. Its cheaper if you can steal parts off of the half dozen clunkers slowly rotting in your backyard.
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Wheels: if your poor, get as many stock wheels as possible. The smaller the wheel, the cheaper the tire, the cheaper the tire the more money you have for post race drinking.
Now that we have covered what you need, lets talk about how to make your car safe.
- Cage: dont skimp on this one, a good cage will cost alot of money.
- Skidplates: because when you hit that exposed rock at 60mph, you oilpan will be much happier
- A good suspension, DMS or Hot-Bits both make baller suspensions for your car.
- Rally computer: your co-driver will be able to do his job of trying to keep you from centerpunching a tree.
- Intercom, this is the only way you are going to hear your co-drivers screams of horror.
- Helmet,Fire suit, gloves and racing shoes. That way when you eventually roll or center punch a tree and your car catches on fire. It will hurt a little less.
This is obviously just scratching the surface.
You are also going to need a competition license, I have no Idea what The sanctioning body will require of you.
Some good websites.
http://www.rally-america.com/index.php
http://www.nasarallysport.com/
http://www.rallyclassified.com/
www.bensrallypage.com
If you have any questions, first read those sites and then pm me. Ill help you out as much as i can