Miata Mailing List: April 1999, Message #70

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Scott writes...
 
> Sorry, Brian, There is NO performance benefit to FWD. In fact the only reason
> that it is used at all is that cars can be built cheaper and roomier with no
> mechanical stuff out back. While the car can be built lighter, the car will be
> woefully unbalanced. The front tires and front brakes will be asked to do too
> much. The shifter will be compromised. Torque steer will haunt you. Mechanical
> work, like clutch jobs will be a nightmare.
> Cars designed for performance can be rear drive, mid engine, or even all wheel
> drive. No one has EVER chosen FWD for performance.
> Scott
> 92 Miata
> 87 325
> 94 325
> No FWD...EVER!


I disagree.  You should drive an Integra Type R.  It's not only fast because it 
makes good power but also because it handles so darn well.  Incredibly balanced 
sports car-- esp. at higher speeds.  Puts many rwd sports cars to shame.  Amazing 
what simple sway bar and spring tuning can do.  It's not very hard to get a fwd 
car to handle really well.  It's just that most manufacturers like to keep things 
safe and stupid.

But yes, you are correct-- it is easier for the front tires in a fwd car to get 
overworked.  However, you'll find many skilled driver who can adapt to fwd 
dynamics and take advantage of their particular strengths.  Drive with a good 
driver and you'll see how early he can get on the throttle.  Also, let's also not 
forget that a fwd car is usually easier to drive under most conditions as well.  
That alone, makes it faster for many drivers.

Of course, rwd offer their own set of advantages (esp. when we're talking about 
high hp cars).  But I think you are selling fwd cars a bit short.  

Shiv

Project RX-7 RWD
Project RS 2.5 AWD
No FWD... YET!