seat height adjustment performance

[lakebum]

Does anybody really knows what s the beneffit for someone if sits low in the drivers seat? Vic Elford in his book "PORSCHE HIGH PERFORMANCE DRIVING" says "The lower you sit ,the better you can feel the balance of the car." Alain Prost has mention the same. But, if you see other legends like the great AYRTON SENNA, Ari Vatanen and others they dont sit really low ,compair to other todays drivers, like the talented Kimi Raikonnen in that video http://spaces.msn.com/members/cristhe he is seating really low and others those days. I found out that in a performance rythm ,and espesially in driffting ,i have a better feeling of the the car, if i adjust my seat all the way down, so i can still see above the steering wheel (nose level).Plus, i have much better control on the steering wheel because it comes fairly higher.Anyone who have any suggestions or professional advise whould be appreciate
Thanks

>> Edited by lakebum on Saturday 22 April 15:25

>> Edited by lakebum on Saturday 22 April 15:27

>> Edited by lakebum on Sunday 23 April 17:14

[GreenV8S]

Sitting lower puts you closer to the roll axis which means that body roll doesn't jolt you sideways as much, so you might get a better feel for the lateral loads on the tyres.

Sitting higher means you have a better perspective on the road and can see further, which is probably more important for most people.

[Simon Mason]

First and foremost sitting lower is about weight positioning. Typically the lightest drivers are 65kgs but more typically around 75kg's. Thats the largest moveable weight in any car so sitting up high is non negtiable with serious race teams.

Next, the lower you sit the further ahead you are obliged to look because your head and eyes are forced up a bit more. Since on circuits we don't have to look over hedge rows or fences like in rallying or the road there is no advantage in sitting up high.

Being low also helps you feel more in, rather than on the car. 1 inch can make a huge difference to the way the car feels to a driver.

Hope this answeres your question.

[lakebum]

Thanks guys! I was thinking about the same too i just wasnt sure,not too many performance schools or instructors mention often about the seat height adjustment. Here is something from www.racingschools.com i thought that you might like to read says: So, what has this to do with driving your car better and more safely? The answer is that if you are focused, you are going to be a better, safer driver. The seating position should be with the back of the seat slightly reclined, maybe one or two notches from the vertical. Your legs should have a 60-80 degree bend at the knee.

Your hand positioning is easy to set. When you get into your vehicle, put your wrists on top of the steering wheel. They should be at the top of the wheel at the 12 o'clock position, with the wheel 1/2-1 1/2" behind the wrist joint. Some drivers like the wrists to just "cut" the top of the steering wheel. Try to find you most comfortable position that gives you the required wheel authority.

If you are now leaning forward, move your seat up to achieve both the wrist and knee bent positioning. Together the position should be comfortable and relaxed. I really can't stress the importance of taking time to get this right. Your arms should have an 80-90 degree bend at the elbow once you have settled in. You will probably be somewhat nearer the wheel than customary for you, but try it both on short and longer journeys. Correct seat placement, along with steering wheel adjustment should ensure that you are in the correct position for a safe controlled drive.
Now doesnt this sound like TOO close or what?!