Expert: Adam - 10/28/2006

Question
I am 15 years old and I am doing an investigation about F1 racing cars, so why does a racing car has a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase.

Answer
Hello and thanks for your question.
The low centre of gravity supports stability at high speed corners. If higher, the car would tend to want to roll more, lifting the tyres, reducing grip and therefore slowing the car down. I don't understand what you mean about wide wheelbase. Wheelbase is the measurement of the distance between from and rear wheels, not between left and right-sided wheels. F1 cars have been made with shorter and longer wheelbases in the past. Deciding the actual wheelbase to pick is governed in part by what is allowed under the regulations and thereafter by what works best for the design strategy. Wheelbase length is a factor related to other aspects of the car's design and characteristics, for example its downforce efficiency, tyre efficiency, braking, suspension, power, torque and the drivers' driving style. Shorter wheelbases allow for better turn in but can be more understeery. Longer wheelbases give offer the possibility of more aerodynamic surfaces to work with but also more drag and poorer turn in.
I hope this helps you, good luck with the project,
Adam