Curious About Aerodynamics

[JerryF]

Nascar Cup teams spend millions to get the best aerodynamic car, but seems in most races, a few cars that are beat up in accidents or tire failures come back and race with the front runners (that aren't damaged.) Really wonder if it's worth the money.

 

[SlicedBread22]

Nascar Cup teams spend millions to get the best aerodynamic car, but seems in most races, a few cars that are beat up in accidents or tire failures come back and race with the front runners (that aren't damaged.) Really wonder if it's worth the money.

Talladega doesnt count

 

[JerryF]

Then Daytona and several other track don't either.

 

[Formerjackman]

Then Daytona and several other track don't either.

A couple of thoughts. First off, Daytona and Talladega are indeed anomalies. You can hide a LOT of damage as long as you are running in tight packs and shielding the damage somewhat from the streams of air. In most cases, these cars could neither go up and take the lead, or maintain it if they inherited it. Also, since you are not concerned with creating downforce at those two tracks, caving a door or a rear corner panel INWARD, doesn't have nearly as effect on the car as it would at a track where you are counting on the sides of the car to create sideforce to keep the cars glued to the track.

 

[JerryF]

Just seems the money spent is not worth it in the actual race with the characteristics of today's cars. Of course it would help with single car qualifying. It's not just Daytona and Talladega either. I wonder if slapping the wall a bit actually improves handling (in side drafting?)

 

[StandOnIt]

Just seems the money spent is not worth it in the actual race with the characteristics of today's cars. Of course it would help with single car qualifying. It's not just Daytona and Talladega either. I wonder if slapping the wall a bit actually improves handling (in side drafting?)

it isn't worth it, but if ya want to be faster than the other guy there ya go.