Non-staggered anyone?

RCZ · 03-23-2009, 05:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChrisSlicks

I think they do the staggered setup mostly to keep the inexperienced drivers out of trouble, i.e. build in understeer. My preference would be for a square setup of 275/35 all around, it will make the car feel a little looser and a little more balanced especially given the extra weight over the front wheels. I'm going to be mounting up some Bridgestone RE-11's later this week so we'll see how that goes. 275's should fit on the the stock 9" fronts just fine (hopefully).

That's not the reason why, although it does result in less grip up front and understeer in most cases.

Let me borrow from Kalmairn at 6MT.net:

Quote:

Generally, larger rear tires are used on RWD cars that have significant power output. It's used to balance the power to the dynamics of the suspension/frame.

To a limited extent it improves the braking performance in the rear of the car. As with all vehicles, the majority of braking is from the front but the added grip in the rear will help.

Speaking for the G35...
The larger rear tires allows better application of power and keeps the rear end behind the front end when accelerating in a corner. The G35 Coupe was designed to have a staggered tire layout, changing it to be the same all-around will have a profound impact on the handling characteristics of the car.

If you upsize the front to match the rears you'll find the car to be less responsive up to the limit; at the limit the car will likely let go much quicker than it would in stock form.

If you downsize the rear to match the front you'll find acceleration traction reduced, the car will rotate easier and at lower suspension loads.

As with any performance RWD car, it's best to maintain the stagger.

Kal.