I guess that it's time I started a little something about my project here. Being a hard core VW guy, I have chosen to build a Comp. Coupe out of a '71 VW Ghia. For those Stud fellas out there, you'll be happy to know that the VW Ghia was originally designed as a sports coupe for Studebaker, but got bought by VW instead. So the body lines have a lot in common.
I didn't really know what to expect as for the aero specs on the car though. So after a lot of digging, I came up with some numbers. These are for a '67 'vert, but the body style didn't change from '67-'71 and the 'vert has the same windshield so the fromntal area is the same. The 'vertfrontal did weigh more though due to the frame reinforcements.
Vehicle Data
Vehicle laden weight 2299.9 lbs - 1043.5 kg
Wheelbase 96in
Weight distribution Front 20.8% Rear - 79.17%
C. G. Height 16in
Friction coefficient 1.9
Frontal area 26 sq ft
Drag coefficient 0.4
Lift coefficient 0.0
I will be removing the stock running gear. New power will come from a front mounted engine (displacement TBD). This will move the weight forward and hopefully make the car more stable a speeds. I'll also be chopping the roof to the limit, stretching the front end by 36" to accommodate the new engine bay, and streamlining the nose as well. With any luck, I can improve on the factory #'s.
That's all for now.