I wouldn't worry too much about it.
Truth is it is going be very tough -if ever possible- for us mere HPDE peasants to match the lap times of pro drivers.
It shouldn't stop you from modding. IMHO at the very least the car needs suspension, brakes and tires.
Not so much for lap times but just so that you can enjoy the car lap after lap without eating the outer shoulder of your tires or fading the brakes.
Have fun with your track buddies and compare lap times with them instead
