Audi R18 LeMans Challenger

[Flieger]

The Acura did well in the ALMS, so I expect a more nimble, faster Audi.

What do you mean about the tall wheels moving the cockpit forward? Is that so the driver can see?

I do not understand your comment about the V6 moving mass forward, either. I would think the transaxle stays in the same place and the engine just gets shorter. So there is less rearward bias, but less rear mass. I suppose that is what you meant. The engine mass is actually less and moving rearward compared to the big V10.

Agreed on the fins.

[Nine17]

Yes, I believe. Less rear weight bias, more compact wheelbase, more front grip. The Peugeot 908 HDi FAP handed the Audis their hats all year, except for catastrophic mechanical failures at Le Mans. The ILMC features circuits different from the high speeds of la Sarthe or Sebring, and now handling is as important as outright speed. The R18's wheels have been drawn back around a more compact drivetrain with the driver pushed forward both for visibility and to put weight where it will improve braking, transient response, and turn-in performance over the R10 and R15. Or so I suspect.

Too bad it's not a Porsche.

[Flieger]

Too bad it's not a Porsche.

I agree. I wish Porsche were not being taken over by VW so that they could race against Audi. Although, Piech might be more into racing than the current managment responsible for the Cayenne and Panamera. Gone are the days of 917,936,956,GT1... At least Norbert Singer and the Motorsport crew are able to keep going with the RSR, although a Cayman might make a better platform if marketing allowed. Maybe Piech will allow Porsche to race in LMP2 with a further development of the RS Spyder or in an endurance-capable GT1 class with the 918?