So I know that the excepted fact for sc300/400 is that every 100 lbs lost = .1 sec faster in the 1/4 mile. However I think i may have evidence from the car and driver ratings that may prove this wrong.

I will be comparing the 2003 BMW Z4 and the 1993 SC300 5spd.

Horsepower & Torque
Z4: 225 bhp/214 lb-ft
SC300: 225 bhp/210 lb-ft

Curb Weight
Z4: 3090 lbs
SC300: 3504 lbs

0-60 Times
Z4: 5.3 sec
SC300: 6.8 sec

So the BMW has almost identical horsepower and torque to the SC300, weighs about 400 lbs more, and is 1.5 secs faster in the 0-60 time. I know there are other factors, being that these are two different cars, like coefficient of drag, gearing, etc. that effect acceleration. But it still seems that weight reduction on an SC300 would give some substantial gains, at least much more than what the general rule suggests. Does anyone even know where this general rule came from, or if there is evidence to prove it correct? Any other input would be great.

 

I was always told the general rule in for every 100lbs. taken out of the car was .10 off
e.t time in drag racing.

 

bad comparison. that rule only applies on the same or two identicle cars. a lot of other things come into play, tires, gearing, driver, test conditions etc...

 

smh.......