First time down the track with my recently pruchased '97 Cobra

[97cobracpe]

Don't sweat it. My first pass down the track with this car netted me a 2.4 60', and a 14.4 1/4. My best pass (above) was my second try. As for tips, I found it is easier to launch slipping the clutch. By this I mean rev to 2000rpm to start, and slowly slip the clutch. Now depress the gas pedal slowly until you build enough speed so when you slam the gas you won't peel out. After evey successful run, raise you're starting rpm.
This is what I do. It works really well (for street tire cars). Using this technique, you should be able to launch at any rpm and not spon the tires. The key is to apply enough power to the ground without spinning your tires.
PS - don't bounce of the rev limiter. Shift around 6400-6600 rpm.