So Much for AWD - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

spdrun · #1 03-25-2013, 09:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by t walgamuth

My Miata with the limited slip torsen rear end was worthless on an icy road. It would not go in a straight line even on a level road with a crown. With chains it would have been ok and probably with an open diff prolly fairly good too but it was nose heavy enough to not be at all good on icy pavement.

Light car, wide tires, limited slip, nose heavy, rear wheel drive.....a bad combo.

Miata is very close to 50/50 balance -- actually might be slightly rear-biased depending on fuel level and passenger weight. Did you have winter tires or no-seasons on the thing?

t walgamuth · #2 03-25-2013, 11:14 PM

All seasons. I never buy snow tires. We don't get that much snow here, generally.

The magazine testers say the're 5050 but I have weighed mine in preparation for autocross and it is heavy in front, I suppose that is without the spare and jack which are removed for autocross....maybe 30# or so. Put in the spare and a full tank of gas and you might be close to 50-50 with a 200# (me) driving it.