A little help, please.

Could someone please explain the uses/benefits that a splitter offers under the bumper? I've seen them on several cars (both on and off of this site), but I'm not sure I completely understand their purpose.

Additionally, who has seen the new Mugen splitter for the MY04? There was a thread here not too long ago that show pics. I've since found more across the internet. My opinion is it looks sharp. I think it (visually) finishes off the front end and gives an extremely aggressive look (combined with the 04 front grill). I'd post a pic if I could. Opinions (appearance wise)?

 

SOMEBODY has got to know. Please help, I've already searched with no luck.

 

a splitter is designed to create a clean cut between the air that goes over the car, and the air that goes underneath. someone with a background in fluid physics would be able to tell you why it's important. To my knowledge, Mugen makes a front lip, but not a true "splitter."

can anyone elaborate?

Quick2k

 

A true splitter, like as seen on many GT and Prototype class race cars, does indeed split the air going under and over the car. It helps by reducing the amount of air that goes under the car. This lowers the air pressure there and increases the car's downforce.

 

Also - on a stock street car, this might or might not have an effect, since the car is so far above the pavement. I don't know of anybody who's done wind-tunnel or finite element analasys to conclusively say one way or the other.

 

Thanks guys. That's exactly the information I was looking for.

 

I have a Coastal Metals splitter because.

1) My driveway is banked so steeply I do not have the clearance for any style of lip. OEM or otherwise.
2) I like it, it finishes off the look. Especially with a Berlina. Not sure of the other colors.
3) It will protect and hit something before my bumper will.
4) Aero concerns are not a major factor. But, I know that on Le Mans Sportscar prototypes they extended them to stop them from flipping over at Road Atlanta(Porsche)and at LeMans(Mercedes)a few years back.


Mercedes CLK Flip - 1999 LeMans Video Clip




I may go with CF version someday if this one holds up.

 

nice

 

that video still gives me chills...

Quick2k

 

are you talking about these splitters?





these are off my gs-t. kinda barely see them.. um, if this is what you are talking about... It's "suppose" to be break coolers ... but i got them cause they were kinda cool... and i wanted the car to look clean without a kit.

goodluck.