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Mommy Wagon
01-02-2016, 06:48 AM
As I embark on my 3rd project (no, not consecutively - but at the same time; I think it might be an addiction?) I find myself asking different questions this time.

What is a Supercar?

Traditionally this has been a term reserved for ultra-exotic, high dollar, mid-engine cars that were "exclusive". Though Pro-Touring has really shattered this term, and it would be really nice to have the term "Supercar" defined.

Pro-Touring -
Sometimes are "exotic", with composite materials, lightweight components, high revving/high power engines, sometimes with turbos/superchargers & some greatly exceeding the output of traditional exotics - RELIABLY!

Typically Pro-Touring cars are not mid-engine vehicles (though can be - disclaimer to avoid backlash!), BUT in the building of these Pro-Touring vehicles there is care and attention placed on the weight distribution, allowing similar balance to mid-engine cars?

When it comes to "exclusive", there probably isn't a more exclusive vehicle around than a Pro-Touring vehicle - it's one off. Bespoke to each builder/driver, with the intent to be driven, and driven to its capabilities (in most cases; there are still some that are built and very capable but stay in infinite slumber behind doors or attending shows).

With all of this said - What is a Supercar by definition? Is it a series of measurements or a checklist? Is it the cost of entry to the club?

If it's measurements - what would they be?

Sub-12 second 1/4 mile times?
175mph minimum top speed capability?
More than 1G capability?
Under 100' from 60-0?
Under 5 seconds 0-60?
Weight distribution?
Track times?

I'm curious, and would really like to hear all of your thoughts on this?

andrewb70
01-02-2016, 07:44 AM
Supercars are so 15 years ago....it's all about the Hypercars now.

What you're asking is not going to be defined. It's like porn, we know it when we see it.

Andrew

Mommy Wagon
01-02-2016, 07:56 AM
Can you define it Andrew? What would a Hypercar be to you?

If a car does one thing well, let's say 11.50 quarter but looks like a low, sleek, car that should do incredible things but doesn't - is that good enough to be a Hypercar?

If only "seeing it" makes it relevant as a "Hypercar" then by definition it could be utterly useless

andrewb70
01-02-2016, 08:40 AM
As I said, it is like porn, we know it when we see it...

Enjoy...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3YPTkBRaOk

Andrew

TheJDMan
01-02-2016, 08:57 AM
Supercars are so 15 years ago....it's all about the Hypercars now.

What you're asking is not going to be defined. It's like porn, we know it when we see it.

Andrew

What Andrew said!

andrewb70
01-02-2016, 10:30 PM
....

If a car does one thing well, let's say 11.50 quarter but looks like a low, sleek, car that should do incredible things but doesn't - is that good enough to be a Hypercar?

.....

Just found another video....11.50s don't make for a hyper car...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9FUAvxsrf0

Skip to the 3:00 minute mark for times...WOW...

Andrew

andrewb70
01-02-2016, 11:36 PM
Then, there is this...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vr9r81O5vN8

Andrew

nicks67camaro
01-03-2016, 06:49 AM
If it's measurements - what would they be?

Sub-12 second 1/4 mile times?
175mph minimum top speed capability?
More than 1G capability?
Under 100' from 60-0?
Under 5 seconds 0-60?
Weight distribution?
Track times?

I'm curious, and would really like to hear all of your thoughts on this?


I love the modern hypercars i dream of the P1. I think half the things that make a hyper / super car are things that aren't measured in numbers.

Fit and finish
Exotic materials (structural not cosmetic)
Blend of form and function
styling - pushing aerodynamics with crash safety standards

IMO your numbers are more C7 stingray than super or hyper car.

http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/2014-chevrolet-corvette-stingray-z51-vs-2014-porsche-911-carrera-s-comparison-test-final-scoring-performance-data-and-complete-specs-page-4

Modern performance cars are getting pretty fast!

hotrodalex
01-04-2016, 11:08 PM
To expect a 45-50 year old car with bolt-ons to perform as well as half million to million dollar cars built by the best engineers in the world is to expect a lot. Especially with all the advances in the drivetrain department - trick AWD, stability control, electric motors, etc.

I don't see the Pro Touring crowd being able to reliably reach the same numbers as modern supercars anytime soon. But numbers aren't everything - I'd probably have more fun in a muscle car at the autox or on a mountain road. The performance is more attainable and you don't have to be a professional driver to go 10/10ths.