Changing the Emira's Weight Distribution

[sbproducer]

Preface:

The V6 stock weight distribution is 39 Front and 61 Rear (this doesn't include the fat ass driver). If a car is super front or rear heavy, you can imagine this can present a challenge with handling characteristics. Theoretically, a 50/50 weight distribution is sought after for better handling dynamics so the fatter you are the better in terms of cornering in an Emira, but not acceleration. Basically, if you are fat, the Emira handles better, if you are skinny, the Emira accelerates better. But, there is another dynamic that plays a role. In a rear-wheel vehicle, the more weight you have over the rear wheels, the better the traction and acceleration, since there is more force pushing the rear wheels down. So, there is a case for arguing that you want a little rear bias when it comes to weight distribution. It's not just a simple go for 50/50.

Google AI Summary:

Corvette weight distribution varies by generation, but a 40/60 rear-biased split is characteristic of the mid-engine C8, while earlier generations like the C7 (front-engine) had a near 50/50 split (often measured at 49.4% front, 50.6% rear), and the C6 aimed for a perfect 50/50 balance. The C8's mid-engine design allows for superior traction and acceleration by placing more weight over the rear wheels.

Thoughts:

Is there a good target weight distribution for the Emira? Should we even be trying to move the needle towards 50/50?

After I finally get a chance to install some of the parts I have, I'll be losing close to 100 lbs. rear. Couple that with my fat ass getting in the car... and the needles moving left for sure. I always thought this was a good thing because the Emira is definitely back-heavy.. I can feel it.. but maybe the 39/61 isn't as bad as we think.

 

[jp129]

Static weight distribution is only one factor. While it does contribute to chassis handling and balance it does not dictate it. My suggestion is drive the car at pace and assess what it is about the chassis handling or balance you don't like.

Does it understeer or oversteer? At what phase of the corner is it exhibiting this? What are your inputs when this is happening? Slow or fast corners or all the same? Etc etc

From there you can address elements like spring rates, damping, sway bars, geometry, track width/tires, and aero to tune the balance to your preference.

I believe those tools are easier to tune and adjust then changing static weight balance, especially as a street car. Race cars have more flexibility in what you can move around to achieve a weight balance.

In the end, it's all a compromise. You just tune the setup to be good at certain things/preferences and less sucky for the rest.

 

[CarGuy11]

This helps reduce rear bias.

 

[MiamiBlue]

I don't like how the car pushes wide when accelerating through a corner. I don't think it's actual understeer (I'm not aware of any tyre grip lost, and you have the effect at lower speeds), but you can feel the turning circle get bigger. If you then come off the power the nose comes back in and tightens the turn.

Is this a result of the weight distribution or something else?

 

[jp129]

That's weight transfer, normal vehicle dynamics - physics.

Overimplication - as you accelerate, you transfer the weight/load to the rear. As you lift, you transfer weight/load to the front. Static weight distribution influences the magnitude of change, but does not dictate the effect.