Abstract

A pair of “intermediate” size sedans of each of the three suspension types was put through constant radius cornering and straight stopping maneuvers on wet pavements. All cars used the same original equipment tire design. Speed and acceleration were measured. All three suspension types gave equivalent cornering performance and only slight differences in stopping deceleration. But the vehicles with rear suspensions consisting of coil springs and control arms were more suitable for sudden lockup stopping because they were less prone to a severe transient condition known as “wheel hop”.