I chose one of the lightest and most aerodynamical (IIRC) bodies. Then I chose the longitudinal layout for more even weight distribution and equal driveshafts (I don’t know if it matters here, but whatever). Then I’ve put a 200hp V6 in there and set the gearbox to achieve the best acceleration. My suspension graph was perfect, even though the tyres wouldn’t last long. I had spare weight, budget and engineering time to add some quality points in key aspects.
I’d never guess that a less aerodynamical body with smaller wheels would be the key to success
For what it’s worth I did try the AE86 body you used, since it was one of the few that could fit the V6 longitudinally, however, never got it to be faster than the CRX. The latter has much more weight on the front wheels, which on the one hand hinders cornering, but on the other helps on the launch/acceleration.
The small wheels isn’t just Automation though (which isn’t to say there couldn’t possibly be anything strange in the simulation). A smaller wheel means the lever arm from the axle to the ground is smaller, so when you’re really low on torque/power, it can help on performance. That only works up to the point where you start to convert tires into smoke, of course, which is why you don’t see drag cars putting all of their power down through trolley wheels.
The same, in reverse, works on braking.
Smaller wheels also mean less unsprung weight, though I’m not sure how much that plays into the simulation.
You do lose out on comfort and drivability, which is why these days wheels keep getting bigger on production cars.
While the odd headlight and taillight placement on your entry can be easily fixed, why did you make the wheel arches much wider than they would normally be? At least the yellow paint suits the car’s lines very well. Anyway, congratulations on a clean sweep for the 1980/81 ABL season!
Before we go though, just a word about Automation. You don’t need to opt out of the open beta, just use the Kee engine build and export from there. We won’t be using the UE4 release for a while.
##Rules
##Deadline
The 7th of June!
Send in your cars to @frankNStein. As you already know, cars should be named like this:
> Model: ABL - Username
> Trim : Brand (optional) - Model - Trim (optional)
> Family: ABL - Username
> Trim: Engine Name - Trim (optional)
We reserve one day to discuss and finalize the rule set and penalties. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. As always, feedback on the ruleset, the presentation, the layout, anything is welcome.
Have fun, and wish you all the best of luck! It’s almost guaranteed that things will change tomorrow so do keep an eye out!
Such a contrast to the previous round… Instead of front-drive hot hatches, we’ll all be building mid-engined, normally aspirated supercars - another staple of 80s motoring culture!
Also, can we use limited production parts (such as aluminum or fiberglass panels)? If not, I will go with corrosion-resistant steel - if I indeed choose to enter this round.
Excuse my double post. I need to make sure everyone is happy with the ruleset and the balancing. So, are you? I’ve also added the deadline, it’ll be on the 4th of June.
What are the mods the jury uses ?
Because if this ABL 82/83 is made in the stock Automation there is only 3 different body types, cars will not be that diverse …
Any non-Barth bodies you can fit a 4L V8 or a V12 in the middle or the rear that is less than 10 years old is what you can use. Yes, that’s very specific
How do you guys feel about the deadline? Would you like more time?
It’s almost guaranteed that things will change tomorrow so do keep an eye out!
