Design of a car is the most crucial element, especially when designing a wheelbase. It is the core structure on which the whole design is depending. Wheelbase design can vary as per the car manufacturer and road condition. However, the basics remain the same.
In this guide, we will provide you with complete information regarding car wheelbase.
What is the Wheelbase of a Car?
The horizontal distance between the rear and back axle is known as the wheelbase. It is responsible for board distribution and reducing the load on axles. Therefore, it controls the total load capacity of a vehicle.
Importance of Car Wheelbase
Wheelbase manages the weight distribution of the vehicle. Therefore, it is important for steering control and wheel balance. If the wheelbase is not adequate as per the car size or load capacity the whole car will malfunction. Here we have enlisted some other important roles that wheelbase play.
Ride Quality
The quality of a vehicle is directly dependent upon the wheelbase. The dynamic characteristics like comfortable driving and handling of the vehicle are associated with the length of the wheelbase. Shorter wheelbase have lesser tendency to pitch and roll which transfer additional and continuous shocks to the jumps and axle. Therefore, almost all the luxury cars have longer wheelbase.
Interior Space
The interior cabin is mounted over the wheelbase. The longer the wheelbase the more spacious cabin will be. The larger space provides additional leg room which can be counted as an important luxury feature. Not only luxury cars, some car models which are used as taxis also have larger wheelbase.
Comfort Ratio
The larger wheelbase increases the comfort ratio of the car. The difference between the front and rear axle to cross a bump lowers the pressure. The lowered pressure reduces the impact of bump on the car ultimately increasing the comfort ratio.
Torque Stability
The shorter wheelbase can not handle high torque generated by the engine. There are potential chances that the front wheel will takeoff if the engine starts with full power. Therefore, with powerful petrol and diesel engines a longer wheelbase is required.
Wheelbase to Length Ratio
The fraction between wheelbase’s length and overall car’s length is maintained to ensure quality and smooth driving experience. For a better cabin space, the fraction of wheelbase must be greater than the overall car’s length. Similarly when you are buying 4wd shorter wheelbase is require to make it drive properly on trails. See the following tables which provide a comparison between the wheelbase length of luxury cars and sedans.
How to Measure Error in Car Wheelbase
Measuring a car wheelbase will provide you a rough picture about any potential issue in your car. Measuring directly from wheel to wheel will not provide you accurate numbers. Follow the below mentioned process for accurate measurement of wheelbase.
- Park your car on a level surface.
- Stretch your measuring tape from rear wheel cap to front wheel cap.
- Mark two spots (rear and front) on the floor, where the wheel cap interacts with tape.
- Repeat the same process on the other side of the car
- Verify the mark’s measurement as per your car’s official measurement
In case, there is any difference between the measured and actual numbers you should consult a professional. This issue requires complex workings and experience which can not be resolved at home.
Car’s wheelbase performs an essential function and is responsible for balancing and managing weight Moreover, luxury and spacious cabins are dependent upon the wheelbase. If you want to experience that luxury, browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE with longer wheelbase.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on car wheelbase.
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