okayfine wrote:62 bugzilla wrote: Most cars have a tank in the same location as mine so I think I'll wing it even though I changed it from a stock 510.
Most cars that have the tank in the same location you put it in were designed (re: crash structure) with that in mind. You've mounted it right in the 510's crush zone.
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Jay, I agree that the crash structure of production cars accounts for fuel tank location. It seems it's done in different ways. While I see the OP's point that an ultimately "stronger" structure can, with appropriate belting of occupants, be safer (as has been shown by many "caged" single-seat race versions of production cars- ITS or Vintage..) -your concern about fuel tank protection and what I will call "crumple zones" is very valid.
For the 510 discussion, it might be worth looking at the structure of the wagons, and for that matter 240z's of the same era, which have more rearward located tanks. The 510 sedan pictured probably would not have breached the fuel tank even with the damage extending to the rear axle midline. The same couldn't be said for a 510 wagon or a Z, yet they don't share the "Ford Pinto" reputation for ill-designed rear-impact protection.
"Crumple zones" -as I call them, are a design feature that seem to have been improved, significantly and incrementally, in production cars over the 4+ decades since our beloved 510's were designed. I think we all share the same interest: what makes our cars "safer" for the intended use.
I have a current (tube-frame) 510 project that I believe will be measurably "stronger" than the original design..even in case of a crash...but I'm giving up passenger space for the tubes that are incorporated..and I'll plan on wearing a rigid harness and helmet to realize the safety potential. IN the years ( really!) that I've beendesinging and building it..safety is one of my major concerns. It's only fun if you're not going to die!
For my daily driver and my family convenance, I tend to bet on "modern technology" ie: crumple zones, abs, airbags, and high-strength steel perimeter frames --- such as they are!
There are many 510 (sedan) race-cars with a rearward/trunk mounted tank, and a fuel cell seems to be used in these race applications. Cells do mitigate the tank rupture concerns...and absent a fire..then next concern would be occupant protection. On the subject of safety, we can't worry about spending too much time with our "due diligence" - and mine, Jay's, and everyone's own- best ideas should be considered whenever we elect to modify..and push the performance evelope of- our cars.