Looks like I'm taking a machining class
 

And, well, I'm obviously gonna want to start machining performance parts. I was just wondering if any of you know of any nuances in designing parts for cars?

What are you planning on making? Most parts can't be made just by machining (other tools/processes are used as well). Also, realize parts on a car will be put under high stress. Anyway, I'd focus on making something neat for the desk or something like that (e.g. a con rod paper weight or something) for starters.

Yeah, i know that material choice is definately going to be a priority in getting right. I think pistons would be a fun start, then move on to building a stronger bottom half for my car, since I think it would be hillarious to have a turbocharged saturn running around town. I dunno though, maybe I'm just getting too excited.