Almost all the motorsport vehicles are made up of space frames just like they do for NASCAR racing cars. Is that the same way V8 Supercars are made? The answer would be no. The reason for this answer is V8 Supercars are models that are currently in production for general public to use. Two such kind of production models are the VE Commodore and FG Ford Falcon. The body of these two production vehicles are used to build . But only the exterior resembles the in production car the interior and performance parts are completely custom designed according to the necessity of the racing car.
The long wheel bases of the two cars Commodore and Falcon saw them getting rejected from V8 supercar racing at certain point of time. So both the models had to undergo a slight change from its production model in the exterior appearance. The changes were that of shortening of wheelbase, lowering of the roof top of the car body and reducing the size of the back door to fit in the shortened wheel base. These changes were very minor which can hardly be noticed by the viewers watching the sport. The interior would go in for a serious level of change before the car is declared race fit.
The wings, spoilers were very much part of all the V8 supercars. It also included a splitters and side skirts with air dam. Both the car types would be tested extensively to have equal level of performance and speed. This is done to have an exciting race from start to the end. When the performance and speed are maintained in the same level only the tactics would play a part in winning and losing. The testing carried out would be done at the same speed level also.
Weighing in at 1355 kg is the minimum weight a V8 supercar should have without the drivers sitting on the car. The rear wheel drive and front mounted engine are some of the strict specifications followed by the racing teams. The norms are set by V8 Supercars Australia. The 5.0 litre engine of a V8 supercar can provide up to 600 bhp to 630 bhp power. The fuel efficient ethanol fuel is used to increase efficiency and also lessen the pollution caused to the atmosphere. This serves two purposes race better and save environment better.
All cars are provided with a similar gearbox which has 6 speed transmissions and break system which is also unique and custom made for V8 supercars. The breaks and transmission are manufactured by Alcon UK and Hollinger & Co Australia. The suspension is dual with rear live axle suspension. The front axle suspension is designed as a normal wishbone suspension. Dunlop do the honours of supplying the tyres for the races, qualification and practise. They provide all weather and all terrain tyres which lasts long for distance races. Since V8 supercars are long distance running cars the tyres play a vital part in deciding the winner and loser of a race.
