Mid engine test mule spotted...
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2007
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The difference at 60rpm between two masses separated by 10 feet and 1 foot is totally insignificant. That is making a 360 degree turn in 1 second which is FAR faster than any car can make that turn. You are comparing the handling of cars with different tires. Physics is what rules how fast you can rotate an object and how much force you need to do that and there is no significant difference in cars which have identical centers of mass but different polar moments of inertia. Actually, MOST mid-engine cars really handle very similarly to rear engine cars because they ARE rear engine cars. Most cars sold as mid engine have tons of oversteer and get very tail-happy under power because they have a lot more weight in the rear than in the front. When mid-engine is done right it is also almost always done on expensive cars. But if cost is no object then it is easier and less expensive to get the same improvement with tires and suspension modifications if you have solved the 50/50 weight distribution problem as GM has with the Corvette.
Yes, the Corvette has understeer because it has smaller tires on the front and is designed for American drivers who prefer understeer to oversteer. Just put identical tire patches on all 4 corners and watch what happens.
Yes, the Corvette has understeer because it has smaller tires on the front and is designed for American drivers who prefer understeer to oversteer. Just put identical tire patches on all 4 corners and watch what happens.
Last edited by FortMorganAl; Jan 16, 2015 at 08:52 AM.
Le Mans Master
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