Scalextric aerodynamics.
Discussion
I bought one of these sets as a present for Christmas
The silver GT3 will corner faster than the GTR without spinning out. The most noticeable difference about the GT3 is that it has a bigger spoiler. Would this really make much difference on tiny model cars like this, or is there another factor at play?
The silver GT3 will corner faster than the GTR without spinning out. The most noticeable difference about the GT3 is that it has a bigger spoiler. Would this really make much difference on tiny model cars like this, or is there another factor at play?
I meant ride height as in the magnet height, but if there are none visible then that doesn't apply.
BTW they do have Magnatraction, so there are magnets in there somewhere, maybe these days they are within the shell. Its almost certain that this is causing the effect that you are experiencing, they are just in different positions for each car.
Magnatraction: A magnet mounted under the car is attracted to the steel guide rails of the race track giving the car incremental downforce and grip. This allows the car to stay on the track at higher speeds and gives improved high speed stability and cornering ability. The race is far more exciting as the cars speed around corners and accelerate away down the straights. The cars slow for corners more sharply too, giving the race real energy. But be careful, when the magnet looses attraction to the steel guide rails the car becomes a real handful!
BTW they do have Magnatraction, so there are magnets in there somewhere, maybe these days they are within the shell. Its almost certain that this is causing the effect that you are experiencing, they are just in different positions for each car.
Magnatraction: A magnet mounted under the car is attracted to the steel guide rails of the race track giving the car incremental downforce and grip. This allows the car to stay on the track at higher speeds and gives improved high speed stability and cornering ability. The race is far more exciting as the cars speed around corners and accelerate away down the straights. The cars slow for corners more sharply too, giving the race real energy. But be careful, when the magnet looses attraction to the steel guide rails the car becomes a real handful!
Edited by DavidY on Friday 28th December 21:24
Manks said:
The most noticeable difference about the GT3 is that it has a bigger spoiler. Would this really make much difference on tiny model cars like this, or is there another factor at play?
My lad has the earlier version of the set you have - same track layout, with ramp but came with a Gallardo and 350Z. A short while after he had the set I bought him a kermit green GT3. The GT3 is the quickest car out of the three - driven right, nothing can touch it on any layout we make.Subsequently, my lad always wants the GT3!
Aerodynamics can make a massive difference to slot cars, but not the tiny little spoilers you describe. You need something like these 'wing cars' to really see the effect:
Here's a link to some racing (note they don't have magnets): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqnPdM7DM6U
Regarding your issue, as others have said it is most likely magnet position or could also be tyre/wheel related if one has a bent wheel or damaged tyre.
Here's a link to some racing (note they don't have magnets): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqnPdM7DM6U
Regarding your issue, as others have said it is most likely magnet position or could also be tyre/wheel related if one has a bent wheel or damaged tyre.
Fun Bus said:
Manks said:
The most noticeable difference about the GT3 is that it has a bigger spoiler. Would this really make much difference on tiny model cars like this, or is there another factor at play?
My lad has the earlier version of the set you have - same track layout, with ramp but came with a Gallardo and 350Z. A short while after he had the set I bought him a kermit green GT3. The GT3 is the quickest car out of the three - driven right, nothing can touch it on any layout we make.Subsequently, my lad always wants the GT3!
groomi said:
Here's a link to some racing (note they don't have magnets): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqnPdM7DM6U
Lol, bloody hell, that's ridiculous! 
Where's the fun in that??!!Ray Luxury-Yacht said:
groomi said:
Here's a link to some racing (note they don't have magnets): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqnPdM7DM6U
Lol, bloody hell, that's ridiculous! Where's the fun in that??!!They appear to be traveling so fast it's simply a matter of hold the trigger and go for it.
Tyres can make a difference too. It's possible to buy sets made of silicon which can provide extra grip. Cleaning the tyres can also make a difference. To do that just get a roll of duct tape, pull back a length around the roll so the sticky side is up, and then roll the cars tyres over it. You'll be amazed at how much black crap comes off them.
IainW said:
I've got an Audi TT and Boxster set and I do notice one car handles better than the other. Must be the magnet placement.
It's boring when they're too grippy anyway.
Yesterday the grippier of the two cars - the Porsche - had the tail out quite a lot, which was fun. Now speaking personally, I find catching oversteer tricky enough in real life but at Scalextric speeds...It's boring when they're too grippy anyway.
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