I had the chance to flog a number of exotic cars last year (including the Audi R8, Lamborghini Gallardo, Porsche 997 Turbo and Aston Martin Vantage) and the experience really changed my perception of how a car should handle at the limit.
The most impressive of the bunch was the Ferrari 360 I had the chance to autocross. Even though the ride was compliant over uneven pavement, when pushed the car exhibited nearly no brake dive or body roll and slid through corners with what felt like even grip from all four contact patches. While I’m used to cars which steer with the throttle (like my Mazda MX-5 and BMW M3), I’d never driven anything so neutral. The handling made it exhilarating to drive, and that’s not even mentioning the amazing engine.
The first time I drove a Honda S2000 in anger I thought “Wow, this is what a well-tuned MX-5 must feel like!” Flogging a Porsche 911 for the first time was even better - it’s as if a talented shop had tweaked an S2000, then gave it more balls. But unlike even a 911, the Ferrari didn’t feel heavy on the front tires under breaking, and on turn-in didn’t seem to rotate around a planted front tire. What is it that makes this car so different?
Utimately, I’d like to learn what combination of factors mix to create a ride which is streetable, yet neutral at the limit - and whether or not that feeling can be replicated without exotic components. My thought is that if I better understood the mechanics of the suspension I would like to replicate, the easier it would be to sort out the specifics of the suspension setup I’d like for my cars.
The bottom line is this - I know I can’t get Ferrari style or a Ferrari engine without spending Ferrari money. But can I get Ferrari handling without breaking the bank?
February 01, 2011, 10:36am Permalink
