The Pursuit of Performance - Part 2

Previously, weight reduction was discussed as a method of improving an automobile's performance. So how else can we better move the weight? Improve the motor! Let's look at how (in general) a motor works.

Basically a motor will draw in air, compress it and apply fuel, combust the mix with a spark, then from the combustion comes power as the piston pushes down turning the drive shaft and the force travels through the powertrain. At the same time, waste products are produced including heat from the combustion (and moving parts) and exhaust gases. It's a four stroke process.

So what are some ways to improve this process? Here are some examples:

• Improve the way air is drawn in
• Improve the way exhaust gases are expelled
• Improve combustion (air, fuel, spark and timing)
• Improve heat management
• Improve engine capacity (more air/fuel volume, more boom)
• Reduce friction (in the right places)

As you can see there are lots of ways to improve the motor. But yet again, don't forget the Yin and Yang! You'll need compensating factors to balance the power:

• Improve drivetrain (to direct the power)
• Re-tune suspension (to put the power to the road)
• Strengthen chassis (to handle the power)
• Improve brakes (to controll the power)
• Improve maintenance and preventative devices (to make the power last)

  

Checkout these braces from the BLITZ Nissan GTR. How much power do you think it makes?

via Import Tuner

So from the analysis above we have found ways to reduce the weight of the car to allow the motor to be more effective . We also found ways to improve the motor. By doing these things you will go faster!

But that's just the start of it... Once you're moving there's lots of physics and other factors you need to consider for total performance... Air resistance, tyre grip, suspension performance and driving technique to name a few...

The tech and science never ends in the pursuit of performance!