Subaru Impreza WRX STi crashes at 150 mph

While traveling through a road course just under 150 mph, a Subaru Impreza WRX STi lost it's rear down force and suffered nearly fatal consequences. Element Tuning's time attack vehicle was totaled, but the driver walked away. Walking away from a 150 mile per hour crash isn't possible unless the driver is protected by a well built crash cage. How could this wreck have happened if just a simple rear spoiler gave way? Quite simple really. Watch how the wreck occurs just as the driver enters a slight bend in the track at high speed. This is where the down force from the spoiler helps keep the rear end heavy with weight to improve traction. With out the expected down force, a driver can easily over estimate the cornering abilities of their vehicle.

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Most people use these spoilers for visual enhancements and few actually realize the positive attributes a huge "ricer wing" can bring to a vehicle. Most are mocked for using these types of enhancements, but the real hardcore racers all understand the improvements a wing can make to even a daily driven vehicle. The problem is that 99% of the spoilers on today's market are garbage, and aren't build with the proper R&D they deserve.

What precautions can one take when choosing a spoiler? Well first of all, the material being used should be approved for the speeds you intend on traveling. Also, make sure that the company you are purchasing it from has wind tested the unit in real life, and not just on the computer. The CAD tests are great, but they aren't perfect. Most professional racing spoilers are made of carbon fiber, but even this strong material has weaknesses if not designed correctly. When choosing a spoiler, it totally depends on the manufacturers quality, research, and material choices. Like the old saying goes, you get what you pay for.

Video content: Subaru Impreza WRX STi crashes at 150 mph

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