Re: Sad but true, TQC < TQ

[John Karasaki <johkar@teleport.com>]

At 08:51 AM 1/3/97 PST, you wrote:
>     John,
>     
>     It sounds as if you may have proven that a very hard suspension (urQ) 
>     isn't as well suited to the real world as a more stock suspension 
>     (5KT).  You have modified the car which was likely set up stiffer in 
>     the first place, and made fewer changes to the family car.  Bad 
>     comparison.
>     
>     On a flat track, stiffer springs coupled with rock-hard Konis (set to 
>     max hard you say) and larger (read heavier) tires will be great 
>     because it keeps the car flat and responsive.  On a real road, 
>     however, every item listed will reduce the compliance of the 
>     suspension which reduces traction on rough surfaces.  It's a relative 
>     thing, but your comment that the urQ is flatter but drifts too much 
>     sure points that way for me.
>     
>     I'll admit I'm biased, owning an urQ, but frankly I didn't buy it to 
>     race it and the incredible speed, stability and confidence the car 
>     offers under all conditions suits me just fine. 
>     
>     Richard Funnell
>     
>     ================
>     
Thanks for your input, Richard.  I bought it to drive mostly on the track.
I've had all three of our cars on the track at PIR, and I have to say, the
urq is much easier to drive on the track.  My lap times for the 5ktq and the
urq are too close to call, though.  I worked alot harder in the 5ktq than
the urq.  I have to agree with you on its suitability to all conditions.  I
bought it in California and drove it back to Portland during one of the
worst snow storms we've had.  I handled great even with 4 bald tires on ice!
The urq is more forgiving at the limit too.  The 5ktq is more tossable.

My point is, however, that I'm trying to decide if I should keep the car and
go to the next level or sell it and buy a cheap 5ktq to make into a track
car.  My urq is too nice to turn into a competition car, but not perfect
enough to be a real collector without much detailing.

Also, $$ wise, making a urq handle and perform great cost much more than a
5ktq... and there's much more room to work in a 5ktq.  On the other hand,
you can't beat the looks of a urq!
Regards,

John Karasaki

Quattro Club (regional & national) member