Is there a maximum useable torque for a Westie?

[SteveF]

This question just occured to me while reading the 'weasel' (Max Torque ) thread....

As a Westie is only a light car (usually ), and there is a limited amount of grip available (even when using wide sticky slicks) - what amount of torque does it take to 'unstick' the rear wheels?

Also - as I may be missing the point - is there any practical reason (apart from donuts / power slides / gooning         ) why you should try and fit an engine with more than this amount?

[Nick M]

I did have a long winded explanation typed out, but then got bored and the can't be arsed factor kicked in !!  

Basically it's not just how much torque an engine produces but where in the rev range it does it and the gearing you apply to it.  You can have a low torque engine with good gearing and, in limited circumstances, be as quick or quicker than a car with more torque but taller gearing.

Power is a function of the torque an engine produces.  And you can *never* have too much power         Sod practicality !!  More power wins every time      

[chris sideways]

I love this quote]

"If you can leave black marks from the time you exit a corner till the time you brake for the next turn, then you have enough horsepower." --Mark Donohue

[Sooty]

Chris, great quote

I don’t think that you can ever have too much power, what counts is how and if you can get it down though the wheels to the road.

There are lots of ways of helping to deliver power. The biggest influencing factor is the accelerator pedal, using it wisely is the first place to start. A Quaife differential will help make the most of the power you are putting out, choosing the correct springs and dampers will help with keeping the tyres in touch with the road. Gearing as Nick said can help. Keeping in mind that unsprung weight plays a big part of the suspension process and as such you want to fit lightweight – well everything really.