The Subaru BRZ is an excellent sports car that delivers impressive performance on the road and track. However, one area that can be improved is the weight of the vehicle. In this guide, we will explore the importance of weight reduction, factors affecting the weight of the BRZ, and ways to reduce its weight.
Introduction
The Subaru BRZ is a popular sports car that has won the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. Its sleek design, excellent handling, and impressive performance have made it a fan favourite. However, one area where the BRZ can be improved is in its weight. Weight reduction is essential in sports cars as it improves acceleration, handling, and fuel efficiency. In this guide, we will explore how to reduce the weight of the Subaru BRZ and the benefits of doing so.
Factors affecting the weight of the Subaru BRZ
The weight of the Subaru BRZ is influenced by several factors, including the materials used in its construction, standard features and accessories, and engine and drivetrain components.
Materials used in the car’s construction
The materials used in the construction of the BRZ play a crucial role in its weight. The car’s body is made of lightweight materials such as aluminum and high-strength steel. However, the car’s chassis is made of heavier materials such as iron and steel. Replacing heavier components with lightweight materials can significantly reduce the car’s weight.
Standard features and accessories
The Subaru BRZ comes with several standard features and accessories that add to its weight. These include air conditioning, power windows, and a premium audio system. While these features add to the car’s comfort, they also increase its weight. Removing unnecessary features and accessories can significantly reduce the car’s weight.
Next, we will explore the advantages of reducing the weight of the Subaru BRZ and the methods used to achieve weight reduction.
Advantages of reducing the weight of the Subaru BRZ
Reducing the weight of the Subaru BRZ has several advantages, including improved acceleration and handling, better fuel efficiency, and reduced wear and tear on components.
Improved acceleration and handling
Reducing the weight of the Subaru BRZ can significantly improve its acceleration and handling. With less weight to move, the car can accelerate more quickly and respond to driver inputs more efficiently. The car’s suspension and brakes can also work more effectively with less weight to stop and control.
Better fuel efficiency
Reducing the weight of the Subaru BRZ can also improve its fuel efficiency. With less weight to move, the car requires less fuel to travel the same distance. This can lead to significant fuel savings over time, especially for drivers who frequently commute or drive long distances.
Reduced wear and tear on components
Reducing the weight of the Subaru BRZ can also reduce the wear and tear on its components. With less weight to move, the car’s engine, transmission, and drivetrain can operate more efficiently and experience less strain. This can extend the lifespan of these components, reducing the need for costly repairs and replacements.
Methods of reducing the weight of the Subaru BRZ
Reducing the weight of the Subaru BRZ can be achieved through several methods, including removing unnecessary components and accessories, upgrading to lighter aftermarket parts, and using lightweight materials in the car’s construction.
Removing unnecessary components and accessories
Removing unnecessary components and accessories can significantly reduce the weight of the Subaru BRZ. This can include items such as the spare tire, rear seats, and sound deadening material. While these items may add to the car’s comfort and convenience, they also add unnecessary weight.
Upgrading to lighter aftermarket parts
Upgrading to lighter aftermarket parts is another way to reduce the weight of the Subaru BRZ. This can include replacing heavy components such as the wheels, exhaust system, and suspension with lighter alternatives. While aftermarket parts can be expensive, they can significantly improve the car’s performance and reduce its weight.
Using lightweight materials in the car’s construction
Using lightweight materials in the car’s construction is perhaps the most effective way to reduce the weight of the Subaru BRZ. This can include replacing heavier materials such as iron and steel with lightweight alternatives such as carbon fibre and aluminium. While this method can be costly, it can significantly improve the car’s performance and reduce its weight.
Examples of successful Subaru BRZ weight reduction projects
Several individuals and companies have successfully reduced the weight of their Subaru BRZ. One such example is the case of the Jackson Racing BRZ. Jackson Racing is a company that specializes in aftermarket performance parts for the Subaru BRZ and other sports cars. They were able to reduce the weight of their BRZ by removing unnecessary components such as the rear seats, sound deadening material, and air conditioning system. They also replaced the stock exhaust system with a lighter aftermarket exhaust system. These weight reduction measures resulted in a 200-pound weight reduction, which significantly improved the car’s acceleration and handling.
Another example is the case of a BRZ owner who was able to reduce the weight of his car by upgrading to lighter aftermarket wheels and tires. He also removed the spare tire and replaced the stock exhaust system with a lighter aftermarket exhaust system. These weight reduction measures resulted in a 100-pound weight reduction, which significantly improved the car’s handling and fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
Weight reduction is essential in sports cars such as the Subaru BRZ as it improves acceleration, handling, and fuel efficiency. Factors affecting the weight of the BRZ include the materials used in its construction, standard features and accessories, and engine and drivetrain components. Methods of reducing the weight of the BRZ include removing unnecessary components and accessories, upgrading to lighter aftermarket parts, and using lightweight materials in the car’s construction.
Reducing the weight of the Subaru BRZ can significantly improve its performance on the road and track. Successful weight reduction projects by individuals and companies have shown that weight reduction measures can result in significant improvements in acceleration, handling, and fuel efficiency. As such, we encourage Subaru BRZ owners to consider implementing weight reduction measures in their own cars to enhance their driving experience.
