What are the differences between the top speed/acceleration/deceleration of 1994 formula 1 cars and 2007 cars?

Question

What are the differences between the top speed/acceleration/deceleration of 1994 formula 1 cars and 2007 cars?

Answer 1

Despite the massive differences that have evolved in the specs over this time. But actual performance in both cases would depend greatly on car setup (choice of aero package, brake ducting, gear ratios, tire compound, etc).

As a generalization, the 1994 cars had fewer restrictions, and are sometimes considered the peak in terms of sheer performance potential. Following Senna's death in 1994, F1 would begin taking regular and deeper measure to control the total possible performance of the cars. The specs in 1994 also allowed for more variation as there were V8, V10, and V12 engines.

The 1994 cars had potential for much more power, though in some cases, peak power would be very similar albeit with a much more favorable power curve than you'd find in the modern V8 engine. However, any power advantage in the 1994 cars would be equalled or overshadowed by the braking capabilities on the modern cars. And while there were many suspension technologies allowed in 1994 which are no longer allowed, the decrease in unsprung weight in the modern car would give it better handling potential. Most of all though, the progress in tire technology would give the current cars much greater pace.

The 1994 cars would still have an edge in acceleration, and if setup just for top speed (minimum down force/drag and highest gearing) they would probably enjoy at least 20mph higher maximum. But cornering speed and braking would be far more important for lap times, and 13 years of technology would make for a difference that the older car would never overcome.

Answer 2

Paul S is correct all the way. Also though, they finally put a rev limiter on this year to govern the cars to 19,000rpm by the FIA. Last race for Michael, Ferrari gave him 20,000revs. It's said that the engineers were a little worried about going higher in rpm. Turns out the velocity of the air being pulled into the motor at 20,000 was close to reaching super sonic (760mph / 1150 fps) . They didn't know if the intake plenum would explode when the sonic boom from the air happened. Crazy, huh?

Answer 3

at the start of the 1994 season the cars were incredibly fast, the williams had around 850 horsepower

Answer 4

A big difference!

cars were stupid and old....now is much better....


f1 fan

Answer 5

michael schumacher, he was der in 1994 but now, in 2007 season he is not der..........i miss him.........