Track preference

When I would do customers projects, (race cars, hot rods)

the best first step is define what you want, space budget, etc.
perm install or break it down when done,
Second is to define the negatives, things you don't want, etc
be brutally honest with yourself

For example if you are just racing with friends, vs filming the races
Filming requires lots of light,
Also power requirements

welcome and good luck building

dr

You could use BluTrack or, for a more complete experience but higher price point, you could use DragTrack, which includes everything you'll need.

For more options and a little more detail look at this guide right here on redline derby, Beginner's guide to track building

Cheapest and fastest build would be the long orange track from Dollar Tree K&O mentioned. Space for track can be an issue, will you be able to leave it up indefinitly or will you have to take it down at the end of the day, can drasticly effect how you build. Bobby D's Lakeside Raceway and Your Nightmare Racing have Youtube channels that feature homebuilt dragstrips (using orange track) that collapse for storage when not in use. As far as "best", look at what's best for you and your budget.

Welcome to the hobby! Since you are fairly new, I would keep it simple and just start with the basic orange Hot Wheels track. That is what most drag track hosts use for tournaments anyway. If you are going to create it in a location where the temperature fluctuates, like a garage, don't fix it to the base material because it will shrink and expand with heat and cold temps.

For ideas, I would use the search feature here on RedLine Derby for drag track builds and also watch the YouTube videos of diecast drag race tournaments. That will give you an idea of all the different track lengths, angles, transitions, finish lines, etc. that are used.

Best of luck with the build and have fun! :)

If you have a 3D printer, you could use SR2 designs and print it all. SR2 races really fast because it is such a hard surface. Just check out The Skyway Short Circuit to see the speeds. Though it has turns, you get the idea. All the SR2 designs you need are free on thingiverse.com. Just search up Spool Heads Racing. If you need any custom designs to print, I can do that for free too if it is just basic angles. 

youtu.be/0m4rBIwgCgg

A traditional 2 lane drag track is probably the most common way to compare diecast rolling performance. If the track will be 'permanent', take the time to lay and secure each lane while maintaining a level surface throughout the length of the track. Starting gates/boxes don't need to be elaborate to be functional. Finish gates, on the other hand, are where a modest investment will typically yield better accuracy & useability. Add a 2-lane digital timing system and you'll have measurable data for comparison. 

Thank you all for your comments and perspective. I've been moving and sick so I haven't had the time to reply but I appreciate it and will hopefully have a track built sooner than later be able to host some races