Functional tail fins?

Question

I know tail fins went out with the batmobile; but was there any attempt to actually make them functional (like an airplane rudder) to try to improve handling?

Answer 1

Some people believed the '59 Chevy's fins actually lifted the car at speed, but that is somwhat apocryphal. The '59 Cadillac tailfins were probably the epitome of the tailfin era, but they are only ornamental.

The only vehicular use of tailfins as a directional device was on a LSR attempt vehicle at Bonneville Salt Flats, but even that was not successful.

Answer 2

because they do not turn like a rudder--they actually hamper turning if they are straight, if they turn they could cause a sever over steer problem in rain and snow. They actually caused a large "sail" area, and a cross wind could cause the said car to be pushed around more then if the fenders were rounded and more closely contoured with the body. There is nothing worse then having a car with the aerodynamics of a shoe box with side sails.

Answer 3

Ever see a 69 or 70 Dodge Daytona or Plymouth Superbird?The spoilers on those cars WERE actually huge fins with a horizontal stabilizer on top.They were functional..thats why NASCAR banned the things and started regulating the aerodynamic designs.

Answer 4

Of course, have you never looked at a land speed record car?

For a street car, not a good idea. You're giving a sports car the cross section of a minivan. One gust of wind and away you go.

Answer 5

not that I know of in the 50's when they were popular, they started messing around with spoilers for downforce in the 60's.