A Help or a Hindrance?

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327!275hp!Convt!

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Joined Aug 23, 2001

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Discussion starter · #1 · Jul 26, 2015

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Is a spoiler more of a hindrance than a help for a convertible, especially with the top down?

I really like the way it looks, but is it really just pretty much of a wind drag on the highway with the top down? Thanks

 

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onefiness

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Joined Apr 17, 2014

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1,326 Posts

#2 · Jul 26, 2015

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Drag/downforce is minimal with a factory spoiler. If you want one, install one. I wouldn't worry one bit about drag.

 

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HawkX66

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Joined Jul 5, 2005

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#3 · Jul 26, 2015

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I wouldn't be surprised if wind didn't even hit it at 65 mph or so. Aerodynamics are funny like that. Put it on if you like the aesthetics of it.

 

DjD

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Joined Apr 17, 1999

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27,011 Posts

#4 · Jul 26, 2015

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The 1st gen spoilers effects can be measured as slow as about 40 mph and they provide notable lift reduction (front) and down force in the rear from 65mph on... At 115mph the front lift was reduced by 45lbs and the down force in the rear was increased by 105lbs in documented testing.

Convertibles can effect a cars CD (coefficient of drag) by 20-40% depending on body design. I don't know how that would effect the efficiency of a rear spoiler though. I doubt the spoiler would be a hindrance just because the car is a convertible. What you might find though (hardtop or convertible) is that a rear spoiler with no front spoiler may cause excessive lift on the front end at higher speeds...