Oh all right then best "wander" in.
Yes, Lotus, there are Classic formulae out there that don't cost a fortune, Classic Clubmans as Peter mentioned certainly fits the bill in Class B, reasonable car for 5k running costs from 3k p.a. FF1600 engine so virtually bullet proof, of course if you fancy something with a little more kick you could go Class A steel 1700 XFlow 180bhp with associated costs !
But there are a few choices around. I would certainly strongly recommend meeting up with someone currently racing in a formula you are interested in, after all we're all enthusiasts about what we do and next to doing it we love talking about it !
getting along to a meeting is an absolute must, look at the cars, could you prepare and run it ? the driving standards, the people etc.
As mentioned earlier in the thread, is factory or other technical support important for you, most club formulae have loads of people around willing and able to help out. Might be well worth while organising a one off rental drive to see if you like it, (rental cars available in Classic Clubmans, just get in touch
we'll find you one.) Considering the time of year trying something out now then buying at the end of the season would seem to be practical, could then take in some winter clubbies.
Have you raced before ?
Oh and here' s the official plug
http://www.classic-clubmans.co.uk/ 