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Old 02-27-2008, 01:43 PM   #6 (permalink)
trebuchet03
MechE
 
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Bay Area
Posts: 1,151

The Miata - '01 Mazda MX-5 Miata
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MetroMPG View Post
Another point to consider ... the $10M prize (if that's what it is - not certain) is chump change to a major auto maker. Perhaps not worth pursuing.
But the marketing value for winning is far more valuable. Some of the big auto mfr's compete every year in "extreme" downhill gravity races - and it's a really big deal for them.


Volvo


Volvo


Lotus


Nissan


Mazda


Audi


GM (Front)


Bentley


VW


Nissan (A winning team)

So ya, it's a big slap in the face. They know how important aerodynamics are - they're using it on downhill races where top speeds are ~50mph IIRC. Yet, bricks come off the assembly lines... Feel free to split this post off if you want...
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