BY MARTON PETTENDY | 28th Nov 2001


AN all-new, control-link MacPherson strut front suspension design was developed to combine the precise handling, stability and comfort of a double-wishbone layout with packaging efficiency to free up space within the engine bay. Compared with conventional strut designs, the front suspension is improved via a long control link that precisely varies toe change throughout the suspension's travel. The Type R's front suspension has an eight per cent damping increase for enhanced handling and responsiveness. Like the front suspension, the new double-wishbone rear suspension is designed to deliver high-performance handling, stability, ride comfort and increased space efficiency. Rear toe-in during braking improves stopping stability. The geometry arcs the tyres rearward when compressing over bumps to reduce road shock and provide a smoother, more comfortable ride. By enhancing the rigidity of the body, bearings, control arms and stabiliser bar, the rear suspension improves tyre-to-ground contact for better handling. The rear suspension uses less space than conventional double-wishbone systems because there is no trailing arm alongside the fuel tank. This allowed the relocation of the exhaust pre-chamber from the cabin floor to the rear - allowing for a wider rear cargo area and a flat floor.
Full Site
Back to Top

Main site

Researching

GoAutoMedia