"How much power is enough"...take #2

[xb-60]

Originally Posted by RICK LAKE

....In the 60's they where the top of the list for great cars. Light power to weight ratio low, SIMPLE. How many people bought a cobra, drove it once and sold it. The number has not changed today with maybe 5-7% of all owners can drive a cobra to it's limits in control. I can't. I have fun with mine.
......Today we have the best of both worlds, Silly power, power steering, ABS brakes, FI systems, Traction control, even AC in the special few. I also believe that there are a couple twin turbo cars and blower cars floating in the mix. All streetable.
As far as big block against small block, it depends on the application of use. I do know that SB cars can chase BB cars all day on short tracks and some times win because of less power and better control.....

Hi Rick,
OK...I admit, I'm stirring the pot.
I just think that there's a limit to what's safe in a light car with a short wheelbase, no traction control or ESC and in the hands of an average driver. 600+ hp in a Ferrari or an SLS Merc is backed up with all sorts of electronic nannies that go some way to making them safer. How many street driven Cobra replicas have any of those 'nannies'?
Racing a car on a track is a totally different situation of course.
My car will have around 300hp at the flywheel. Almost all of my driving will be on quiet Adelaide Hills roads, and a power to weight ratio of a bit under 300hp/ton would see off most locals here.


Cheers,
Glen