| Chris
Very Good.
Notice the pictures Howard posted. See the box Lattice structure that supports the rose Joint bracket assy. Notice your first picture there is no box structure around the rose joint bracket. The strut as picture provide this addition support to the front end for suspension support.
The Transam Car has a very more advanced setup!
Both pictures have struts for stiffness that support the front suspension. Yes they also provide crash protection.
best |