Automotive What's the Point of High-Powered Cars in a World of Speed Limits?

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The discussion centers on the relevance of high-powered cars in regions with strict speed limits, primarily questioning the necessity of vehicles capable of exceeding legal speeds. Participants highlight that while some countries, like Germany, allow higher speeds, many others do not, raising concerns about fuel costs and safety. The argument suggests that manufacturers should consider speed limiters or design cars with maximum speeds aligned with legal limits to enhance safety and efficiency. However, there is a counterpoint emphasizing consumer choice and the idea that manufacturers respond to market demand rather than impose restrictions. Ultimately, the debate reflects broader themes of personal freedom, safety regulations, and the automotive industry's role in shaping consumer preferences.
  • #101
If you really want to save lives, you'd require cell phone manufacturers to design their phones to self destruct if activated inside a moving car. [\hijack]
 
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  • #102
The biggest thing that blows my mind is the fact that we add ethanol which is not efficient in terms of power per volume. So we buy 10% ethanol fuel that is cheaper but also weaker so we lose in gallons per mile.
 
  • #103
KonaGorrila said:
The biggest thing that blows my mind is the fact that we add ethanol which is not efficient in terms of power per volume. So we buy 10% ethanol fuel that is cheaper but also weaker so we lose in gallons per mile.
It's a fair bit more complicated than that. Power per unit fuel is not the only factor. For example, ethanol dramatically reduces greenhouse emissions. But let's not go down that twisty-turny sideroad.
 
  • #104
DaveC426913 said:
For example, ethanol dramatically reduces greenhouse emissions.

Really? It rather depends upon the ethanol source and the ethanol percentage. Corn produced ethanol in E10/E15 mixes are at best a wash, worse than pure petrol when land use changes are taken into account.
 
  • #105
cjl said:
What car would that be, out of curiosity?
tumblr_n56ndkHp5Z1r8c46jo1_1280.jpg
 

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