Supercars are known for their high performance and bold design. One of the striking features of these vehicles is the location of the engine. Thus, it is very common to find cars of this category with a rear central engine.
This is a characteristic restricted to a few exclusive models. The arrangement of the rear central engine can provide some very interesting benefits. But after all, what is the function of the rear central engine?
In this article, we will show the role played by the rear central engine of supercars, as well as the differences in relation to front and rear engines. Keep reading!
What is the central engine and what is its purpose?
The central engine is a type of engine positioned in the center of the car. This results in better stability and handling of the vehicle, especially at high speeds and in curves. The main purpose of the rear central engine of supercars is to position a large part of the vehicle's mass in the middle, between the front and rear axles.
Thus, it contributes to achieving a balanced weight distribution, which results in significant advantages in terms of stability, handling, and control of the vehicle. By positioning the engine in the center of the vehicle, close to the rear axle, a considerable amount of mass is moved from the front axle, avoiding excess weight at the front of the car.
This is beneficial because excess weight at the front can negatively affect responsiveness in curves. With the rear central engine, the center of gravity is more balanced, providing a more neutral and predictable driving experience.
Additionally, having the engine mass positioned in the middle of the vehicle helps improve traction of the rear wheels during acceleration. As the load is transferred to the rear wheels, there is an increase in grip and traction, allowing the engine power to be more efficiently transmitted to the ground.
What are the differences between rear, front, and central engines?
In addition to the central engine, which we have already defined in the previous topic, we have the rear and front engines. See what the main characteristics of these other two formats are. Keep reading!
Front Engine
In cars with a front engine, the engine is positioned at the front of the vehicle, usually above the front axle. This configuration is common in conventional vehicles and offers the advantage of easy access for maintenance.
However, the additional weight at the front of the vehicle can impair weight distribution and agility in curves. The front engine is the most common in passenger vehicles that circulate on Brazilian streets and highways. The vast majority of cars use this format.
Rear Engine
In cars with a rear engine, the engine is placed at the back of the vehicle, usually behind the rear axle. This configuration offers better traction on the rear wheels, which is beneficial for acceleration but can result in less stability in curves due to the concentrated weight at the rear of the vehicle.
The rear engine is more common in sports cars and luxury vehicles. It is an interesting solution for this type of car. But there are certain limitations related to reduced stability in curves, as we have already mentioned.
What is the function of the central engine in supercars?
The main function of the rear central engine of supercars is to improve the performance and drivability of the vehicle. The central location of the engine contributes to a lower center of gravity and a more balanced weight distribution, resulting in greater stability and agility in curves.
Additionally, this configuration allows weight to be transferred to the rear wheels during acceleration, improving traction and braking capacity. This is especially important in supercars, which generally have high-power engines.
Another benefit of having the central engine in supercars is the reduction of the vehicle's inertia moment. The inertia moment is the tendency of an object to resist changes in its rotational motion.
By concentrating the engine mass in the middle of the car, the inertia moment is minimized, resulting in a quicker and more precise response of the vehicle to changes in direction. This translates into a feeling of enhanced agility and control, allowing the driver to explore the car's maximum potential in curves.
In summary, the purpose of the central engine in supercars is to position a significant amount of mass in the middle of the vehicle, between the front and rear axles. This results in a balanced weight distribution, improves stability, and control in curves.
Additionally, it increases traction on the rear wheels during acceleration and provides agile response of the vehicle. This configuration is essential to ensure the best possible performance in supercars and to create an exciting and engaging driving experience.
What are examples of supercars with central engines?
There are several examples of supercars that adopt the rear central engine configuration. Among the most famous, we can highlight:
- Ferrari 458 Italia;
- Lamborghini Aventador;
- Lamborghini Huracán;
- McLaren 720S;
- McLaren 570S;
- Audi R8.
These vehicles are recognized for their exceptional performance, impressive speed, and precise maneuverability, thanks to the rear central engine configuration. Additionally, it is important to mention that the characteristics of the engines can vary greatly.
For example, it is possible to have an engine with 6, 8, or even 10 cylinders in V. We also have cars with central engines that are equipped with an electric system, turning the car into a hybrid.
In conclusion, the rear central engine of supercars plays a crucial role in positioning a significant amount of mass in the middle of the vehicle. It provides more stability and safety. It is an essential configuration to maximize the performance and drivability of supercars.
