Quote:
Originally Posted by Malakas
I wanted to post a question, and while the mods may move this to the "cosmetic" section, it is more a question of function, and specifically track function.
BMW makes the performance rear wing for our cars (using IND website just to reference the products), and there is the racing wing from the M235iR cup car... as well as a variety of aftermarket options.
I am assuming the BMW M235iR wing makes actual rear downforce, but I'm wondering what other wings actually do so...
For now I'm going to drive my M2C on the street, but it will see its fair share of track time and I am hoping to "surprise" a few p-car buddies with the performance envelop of this car... so Im trying to research what aero is real, and what is just for show. 
Thanks to all for any input!
{just a quick side note, because so often people chime in that driver training is the best mod... I could not agree more. I regularly race in WRL and Champ (formerly chump) and as part of our racing team we do get continuing private training with pros, both with data and side-seat.} |
Both should produce downforce but would guess the 235 can produce more. It looks like the performance one is fixed - so you pretty much get what you get there. The 235 is adjustable- can raise or lower the angle of attack for your desired amount of downforce - and drag. The uprights are also taller - in theory put it into cleaner air letting it be more effective. Shape of the wing looks the same, end plates are different. The style of end plate on the 235 looks more in line with more “race” oriented wings. Not sure how much that makes a difference.
A couple things to consider are balance and drag. Adding downforce to the rear is usually combined with additional aero on the front. Being able to adjust the rear wing can be nice to find a balance between the two. Drag also comes into play. How efficient the wing is at producing downforce is important & something to look into as well.
It also looks like bmw expects more downforce out of the 235 wing based on their recommendation to reinforce the trunk - or buy their already reinforced one. That is not specifically noted for the performance wing.
I’ve actually been looking for a wing for my M2 as well. I’ve been talking with ind about the 235ir wing too and plan to pull the trigger tomorrow. It’s kind of stupid money but to me it is the best looking wing (if I’m going to be that guy that sports a wing on the street this one looks the least DB to me) - that looks like it will also perform on the track. Without any CFD data it’s hard to say how it compares to other wings though - but would think bmw was satisfied enough with it to put on the M235ir. To me the performance wing is mainly a looks thing.
APR has a few options but I don’t think anything specific for the M2. Nine lives racing has one that is very efficient based on their data but also not sure if they have a specific application for this platform. Might also check with bimmerworld - they might can offer some good advice on a full aero setup including the wing.