[Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
The old Integra Type R and some (maybe all) manual-transmission versions of the new Acura TL use a helical torque-biasing diff (the MT models also get the nice 4-pot brakes.) The Integra's was a Tochigi Fuji unit, I'm not sure who makes the TL's. The Integra Type R was always regarded as utterly glued down and stable, and I know the diff was worth about 2 sec/lap on a typical road course over an identical car without one; the TL has caught a certain amount of flak in the press for squirmy behavior under power. I haven't driven one.
It's been my observation that the impact of a helical torque-biasing diff on steering feel is highly vehicle-dependent - suspension design, steering scrub radius, etc. - but I haven't yet driven one where I thought it was objectionable.
The Neon SRT-4 now uses a Quaife, and there's few cars that need it more than that thing does.
The Cooper S so far as I can tell does not use a torque-biasing diff. It uses a GKN Viscolok hydraulically actuated clutch-type diff, and it's available only in the manual-transmission cars. Quaifes are available as aftermarket pieces (the Cooper S uses the same gearbag as the Focus ST170/SVT Focus.)
I don't recall *what* the STi has and where. The US-market version of the Evo does not have a limited-slip in front.
The old Sentra SE-R and NX2000 SE-R used a viscous limited-slip, these were also used in some Euro-market Fiats and Fords. These were also used extensively by Nissan in RWD vehicles (e.g. '90s Infiniti Q45.) They use a silicone putty between plates connected alternately to each side of the diff. 'Softer' acting than other limited-slips, it worked very well for its day but in most cases I'd take a helical diff.
posted by 198.144.20...
No Site Registration is Required to Post - Site Membership is optional (Member Features List), but helps to keep the site online
for all Saabers. If the site helps you, please consider helping the site by becoming a member.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
