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High Performance Hatchbacks - Any Opinions? - READ ONLY

25 messages,  Last post on Nov 26, 2001 at 9:04 PM

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Messages Page 4 of 4

#24 of 25 FWD Performance Cars: An Oxymoron by rockribbed

Aug 22, 2001 (9:32 am)

Every body is talking about hot hatchbacks but are using the Honda/Acura and VW as the bench mark, when in fact a FWD performance car is an Oxymoron. The Subaru WRX and the Audi are barely in the fold (Audi 50-50 torque split and Subie a little better with 45-55). When you try to put that much power to the ground with a FWD vehicle, weight transfer unloads the front wheels inducing wheel spin (which looks cool) and loss of steering control.
 
Since the AutoUnions (Audi) of the '30's there has never been a purpose built racing car with front wheel drive. (Now, I'm not talking about production cars that have fwd that are raced in sanctioned events, ie SCCA classes) The reason is that FWD is not the most efficient way to operate a high performance vehicle.
 
The BMW Z3 coupe (IMHO, one of the ugliest cars available, but still a candidate), the MB C230, and the Corvette are the only true high performance hatchbacks for sale in the U>S>

#25 of 25 by revka

Nov 26, 2001 (9:04 pm)

Since this discussion has been inactive for quite some time, it's going to be closed. Let's continue this subject in our HOT HATCHBACKS discussion.
 
If you come across this discussion and would like to have it re-opened, please send me an email.
 
Revka
Host
Hatchbacks / Station Wagons / Women's Auto Center Boards

Messages Page 4 of 4

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