To autocrossers with strut bars -- Do you think you would notice a difference in handling and/or feel of your car if I secretly removed your strut bars before an autocross event? Also, do you think it would adversely affect your times?

 

I had the bars both fore and aft on my Escort. I didn't notice a bit of difference when I removed them. It's my opinion that they really don't do too much due to the front's proximity to the firewall and the rear's relation to the back dash/trunk floor.

 

I agree. They help more on a Honda (on which all sport compact performance parts seem to be based). Even on my CRX I barely noticed a difference- it probably would not effect times on an autocross course.