Re: AWD performance

[trishab@interwebb.com (Trisha Blethen)]

Fluhr wrote:
> 
> Geez, talk about a discussion!  How about this for a test:
> Take an '85-'86 stock Coupe GT and an '85 -'86 stock 4000Q on the track,
> same tires, etc.  You can add some weight to the GT to bring it to the
> same amount as the 4000 quattro.
> 
> Now, clock the same driver in both cars around a track, in the dry.
> If AWD gives a significant performance advantage, the 4000q should have
> consistently better lap times, no?
> 
> This isn't a totally accurate comparison, as the two cars have different
> rear suspensions, but it is probably as close as we can get.  If the 4000q
> does get better lap times, I would say that AWD corners better (since
> the cars have nearly identical hp ratings).
But, you have forgotten, you are now comparing apples to oranges
here.....the Coupe GT will handle entirely different due to the
placement of the weight to the power it can put down.  Corner weights in
this case will make a huge difference (as well as suspension geometry)