Hey all. Question relating to another post. I read on this site that, as the non-sport has a softer suspenstion, it will get better traction off the line for a better launch. This makes a lot of sense to me, given rear weight transfer under accleration.

But, I've heard from other sources that a harder rear suspension will actually get more downforce over your rear axle (assuming RWD), getting more traction. Anybody know about this concept?

 

As I understand it, drag cars have lighter rebound damper settings on the front suspension to aid in the speed of weight getting off the front tires (and on the rear). That doesn't mean they are "soft". Firm suspensions can actually speed the weight transition which is what you were alluding to with your second point (where having a firmer rear suspension setup can be a good thing). A drag car is looking to get weight off the front and onto the rear as quickly as possible -- but it is a different balance between front and rear, not so much "soft" or "firm."

However, are you really that concerned about an imperceptible difference in off-the-line traction for an entry-level luxury sport sedan? If you are going to mod the car, chances are the suspension will change anyway. If not, you won't notice a difference is off-the-line traction (if there actually is any measurable difference).

That being said, I would error on the side of stiffer suspension settings for more performance oriented musings. Quicker weight transfer, less suspension movement.

Just my $0.02.

 

The more important variable would end up being that the non-sport is missing the limited slip differential. That would be the biggest difference in traction.

 

and let's not forget: that red S by itself has GOT to add some horsepower...

at the very least, it will make your enemies tremble so you'll win all the races

 

LOL. The "S" factor! Good for .0001 perceived hp.

 

THE "S" FACTOR MAKES THEM TREMBLE IN THEIR BOOTS

LIKE WHEN I FIRST SAW THE COROLLA WITH THAT "S" I WAS LIKE HE MUST BE FAST

 

Nope ... the Red "S" adds about 1 oz to the weight of the car ...
hence totally messing up the hp/lbs ratio ..... so the car is slower to the 60 (dang !)

 

Yes, I've also heard of the hp the 'S' adds. I think this was taken the wrong way. It was supposed to be just comparing suspension set-ups for better traction under acceleration in general, not if I will have a .0004% better launch.

oh well, i tried.