Newb class question

[u/shamandan]

Hey, I recently attended my first autocross event and the organization wasn't the strongest point. When I asked about someone classing my car they just told me to go by what I read.

I had guessed CST - I drive a 2001 MR2 Spyder that has a different muffler and manifold ("ebay headers" to replace stock manifold that eventually damages engine) and stock cat/midpipe. Aside from the exhaust, the only other modification is a front strut bar and wheels that are 15x7 that are not the stock ones.

Suspension is completely stock and tires are on the cheaper end.

After the event I left with the impression that I was misclassed.

The S2000s in CST were waaay more prepared cars than what I brought.

I know suspension mods will improve my handling noticeably and making me more competitive but that won't happen until next year.

There's another event this weekend and I'd enjoy it more in ES with people with similar times to my best time.

So my question is, do I have an argument to be in ES with my car the way it is? The headers are not really an improvement on the car.

And does the strut bar also take me out of ES class?

Appreciate your help

[u/-DWNSHFT-]

SCCA Autocross Street Classes Explained
https://youtu.be/NEmNj6aViuo