Expert: Adam - 7/5/2003

Question
Hi,

I am curious, can you tell me what the mechanical or spec differences are between cars in F1 and cars in IRL?
Any assistance will be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Dave,

I'm no expert on IRL, but think that the following are the main differences in terms of spec.

Fuel - F1 runs on gasoline, IRL on methanol (or at least it used to). Fuel tanks are also different as fuel pick-up on the IRL cars is different as they only turn left. Fuel tank in F1 is 135-150 litres, don't know what they run in IRL though. F1 fuel economy is around 3 litres/lap (2 miles)

Electronic aids - F1 has traction control and auto gearboxes, IRL does not

Tyres - IRL run slick dry tyres, F1's are grooved

Brakes - F1 uses carbon fibre, I think IRL use steel

Engines - F1 uses "exotic" materials and special low weight metals whereas I believe IRL has steel engines. Also outputs and capacities are different.

Weight - F1 cars are smaller and lighter

Aerodynamics & set up - F1 cars turn right and left, so don't have the stagger that the only left-turning IRL cars have. Aerodynamics are also different due to the different turning actions and downforce from the tyres/weight/ circuit chracteristics.

Chassis manufacturers - F1 is a constructors championship with 10 teams/makes of car and 7 engine manufacturers, compared to the 2 (or maybe 3) in IRL. Teams are not allowed to race someone else's car in F1.

F1 cars race in the wet at all tracks, IRL cars don't

For further information, check out the following websites:
http://www.indyracing.com/indycar/
http://www.motorracing-world.co.uk/irl
http://www.fia.com/homepage/selection-a.html

Best wishes,
Adam