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MBelcher · 06-15-04, 06:22 PM

The picture of the GT 40 crash test is pretty dramatic. Keep in mind, however, that this is roughly the equivalent of an 80 mph impact into a stationary vehicle of equal weight. The impact also produces 86 percent more energy than a 30 miles per hour barrier impact.

Passenger cars, where weight savings is not quite as big an issue, are barrier tested at 30 mph. The chances of a fatal injury are increased dramatically when the speed is increased to just 35 mph. That five mph increase requires a dissipation of 37 percent more energy.

Fortunately for those who race, few impacts involve a 4000 lb. concrete/steel barrier, or the equivalent. Unfortunately, for those of us who will be driving our cars on the street, we have to be much more aware of that possibility. To borrow a phrase from the old “Hill Street Blues” program, “let’s be careful out there.”

06-15-04, 06:22 PM	#4 (permalink)
MBelcher Rookie Join Date: Mar 2004 GT40: Los Angeles Posts: 27 Rep Power: 5	Re: GT40 Crash Test 1967 The picture of the GT 40 crash test is pretty dramatic. Keep in mind, however, that this is roughly the equivalent of an 80 mph impact into a stationary vehicle of equal weight. The impact also produces 86 percent more energy than a 30 miles per hour barrier impact. Passenger cars, where weight savings is not quite as big an issue, are barrier tested at 30 mph. The chances of a fatal injury are increased dramatically when the speed is increased to just 35 mph. That five mph increase requires a dissipation of 37 percent more energy. Fortunately for those who race, few impacts involve a 4000 lb. concrete/steel barrier, or the equivalent. Unfortunately, for those of us who will be driving our cars on the street, we have to be much more aware of that possibility. To borrow a phrase from the old “Hill Street Blues” program, “let’s be careful out there.”