How far under index?

[Freddie]

I know at National events qualifying is based on how far under the index you can go, but how far under do you really need to be to be competitive?

I only ask because I am finishing a long overdue project 1997 Mustang Cobra with the "Freshened" 4v and a 5 speed for Stock. Plan on running either F or G/S and while I may only be able to run some divisional events this year, my question is what should I be looking for to be able to qualify at most National events as well?

We have done quite a bit of work to the car inclusive of all the legal and accepted chassis mods, and have it right at weight, with a beefed up rear, good axles and a gear we think is right for now. I know a 5 speed car is at a disadvantage over the automatics but this is what I have to work with and I LOVE driving the 5 speed.

So again looking for a little help with how fast I should really be, and how do they run class eliminations now, its been years since I did this.