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If you’ve been around cars for any length of time, you’ve undoubtedly heard the term, supercar.
Supercar is a name that is used to define a high-end sports car whose performance of a caliber that far exceeds those of its rivals.
Supercar is also a subjective term. This means that since the majority of supercars are rare imports, or exotic cars that over time they may lose their status of uniqueness that set them above the rest. In this case, a supercar may not continue to hold that elusive title for an indefinite length of time.
The first car that held the esteemed brand, “supercar” was the Lamborghini Miura. However, today, supercars are not always racecars.
Many supercars are built and designed for every day driving, in addition to racing. Some supercars are exempt of features that are inherent to racecars.
Supercars usually earn their special class by having certain attributes. In addition to being rare or exotic, modern supercars feature an exquisite design. This is usually evidenced by a rear mid engine, rear wheel drive format. Since the bulk or weight of the car is in the middle, the car can handle speeds with greater efficiency. This design is consistent amongst supercars.
Also, you’ll notice that the power to weight ratio is a factor that lends to the supercar status. High power, low mass equals a supercar that can brace high speeds with ease and allows the driver ease of steering and greater control.
These factors contribute to supercars reaching top speeds and increased or high acceleration. Supercars typically reach from 0-62 mph in less than four seconds.
Additionally, supercars can reach from 0-100 mph in less than seven seconds, and 0-200 mph in less than 30 seconds. You can see how supercars easily feed the speed craving of racing enthusiasts.
Since supercars reach ultimate speed levels, they must be able to have excellent handling ability. G force is the force associated with acceleration, and with supercars, the g force can exceed 1 g, during some of the most intricate driving maneuvers.
Due to this, it is imperative that all supercars are built and designed to withstand these forces allowing the driver the greatest control over the vehicle. In addition, there are certain factors that also ensure that a vehicle will be dubbed a supercar.
These include the brand name, exhibiting cutting edge style and design, being unique and rare, and having a design that sets them above practical vehicles, supercars are designed for sport, speed, and for the elite.