It was a well thought out decision not to use money for this game.
- I think money is slightly more difficult to balance out than time management, although there are some other difficulties with my system.
- Lots of games have money, while I really like the idea of World Rally Championchip's time system.
- You're supposed to be filthy rich, so money shouldn't be a factor, just like in the real Cannonball/Gumball Rally.
But I do understand the appeal of your suggestion. Super Hang-On had a similar system.
I'm glad you like it anyway!