What Car? Q&A - Can I remove ABS?

Q: Can you tell me if it is possible to remove the anti-lock brakes (ABS) and other equipment that I consider superfluous? I am considering the purchase of a Mazda MX-5 to use as a track-day car and would be interested to know if this is possible?
Chun-Ho Cheung

A: Removing the anti-lock brakes (ABS) from a car is something that we would never advise. Although it is possible for an experienced driver to brake safely in a car without ABS, it is always safer to opt for a car with it fitted.

Nearly all new cars now come with ABS as standard, so even if you wanted to specify a car without it, the manufacturer would be unable to offer an alternative. We would also advise against trying to disable the ABS system on a car, as this may affect other functions.

If you have your heart set on an MX-5, you could possibly buy a suitable second-hand example and have it specially prepared for use on a race track. Contact the MX-5 (www.mx5ocforum.co.uk) owners' club for advice on who might be able to carry this work out.

It might be both cheaper and more fruitful for you to reconsider the purchase of a specifically racetrack-orientated car. The MX-5 is a great car, but it might not be as rewarding as a Lotus Elise, Caterham 7 or Westfield on the track.