CHECK OUT OUR CARS
Big 5 Gen IV Big 5 Gen V Hustler 4 Hustler
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CHECK OUT OUR CARS Big 5 Gen IV Big 5 Gen V Hustler 4 Hustler
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Car specs and pricing Why our cars work so good Assembled Cars Motor Options Seats Options Other Options Details and setup
Pictures Other Funco Info
Links Outfront Motorsports, Subaru motors & parts California Performance Transaxles C&G Performance, Subaru & Honda motors American Sand Association link
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What does your motor weigh? Everyone knows that motor weight and it's center of gravity has a big influence on the handling of any sandcar. Harnessing the motor is also important, you need more chassis and motor mount reinforcement for heavier engines, especially high torque motors. And it's obvious that the heavier the car is the more horsepower you'll need to get it moving...... not to mention a heavier car takes longer takes to stop. But even though a lighter car is usually the best setup in the sand there are trade-offs to consider that can influence your decision such a fuel type, acceleration, torque, and even the sound of the exhaust (V8's do sound cool). Careful considerations are needed to make sure you get the best car for your intended purposes. If you're buying a 4 or 5 seater car you will need at least 250HP to provide a fun and safe ride for that many passengers. Most of the motors below would be appropriate for this purpose, but 300HP+ is what we recommend as the minimum to have a real good time. The weight behind the rear axles highly influences handling characteristics. The length and height of the various motors provide a different center of gravity of the car. This is why the handling personality changes from one motor type to another. The less weight you have, the lower the weight, and the shorter the weight hangs out behind the wheels (we're talking rear engine configurations here)...... the better the car will typically handle in rough, tight, and fast driving environments. Generally speaking heavier cars will have a smoother ride in the chop. That's because of the increased sprung weight which take more shock to move it, resulting in a smoother ride, similar to how a Cadillac rides smoother than a VW on the street. But if you're car is too heavy it will drive more like a Cadillac and not handle well in the turns (very imporant). So there's a happy medium on car weight to get good handling and a smooth ride. Engine selection is a big influence on this. Getting stuck is something everyone does eventually, and getting unstuck is also highly influenced by weight. Having enough friends around to help you get unstuck is important with heavier cars. If you get stuck in a V8 you'll need a bunch of friends to save the day. Over the years we have weighed the most popular motors, just before they're installed in our Funco chassis. The weights below are based on motors ready to install into the car. This means the motor has headers, big air cleaner and plenum, power steering pump, turbo and intercooler (where noted), transaxle adapter, flywheel, clutch, and pressure plate. MOTOR WEIGHT COMPARISONS VW Stroker 2.3L N/A 260lbs. No radiator
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