Effect of light weight wheels and tires on acceleration

[Schwerin]

Apples and oranges.

0-60 times are measured on a speed basis (time = speed divided by acceleration). Quarter mile ETs are distance-based (time = a sqrt function of distance divided by acceleration). So the comparison isn't a direct one.

Not only does acceleration drop off as you grab the next gear - the difference in acceleration between the light wheel case and the heavy wheel case also gets narrower. IOW, the amount of benefit you get below 60 mph / 2nd gear does not hold true for 60 and up and 3rd/4th gears.


Norm

True I didn't factor in that ones to a speed and the other is a distance.

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[Grintch]

https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15130598/upsized-wheels-tires/

Not completely relevant, but data shows heavier wheels are slower.

Unfortunately, some variation in compound and a lot of variation in width muddy up the comparison.

 

[Norm Peterson]

Another link. I was hoping to find the article by Jason Isley that appeared in SCCA's 'Sports Car' magazine online some time ago.

Are Lighter Wheels Really Better? | Articles | Grassroots Motorsports

There really isn't any question that wheels that (1) weigh more to begin with, and (2) bleed off more drive axle torque to be accelerated rotationally to any given rate, are going to slow the car down a bit. It really is 'in the math'.


Norm

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