Infinite Speed *** Infinite Tranny Gears

[Stallion]

I was just thinking, say you happened to have a 50 speed (I know I know, this is nearly impossible to have because of gear sizes, etc. But theoretically thinking...), wouldn't you be able to reach a higher speed? Because if you keep shifting as you accelerate, the engine will stay in respectable RPMs. So wouldn't you be able to just keep going faster, and faster, and faster, and...

So why don't we have 16 speeds in cars to reach higher top speeds? Do you see my logic and what I'm asking? I might not have said it very clearly.

Thanks!

TR

 

[JohnZ]

Top speed is a function of engine power delivered to the wheels and aerodynamic drag; even with optimum gearing to keep the engine at its power peak, at some point the engine just runs out of power, can't overcome the opposing forces any longer, and the car stops accelerating. Answer? More power, less weight, less aerodynamic drag = BIG $$$$$

 

[Dream_Driver]

What John Said )

After a certain point you are pushing a wall of air of which the power of the engine can not overcome. Or the car takes flight which is not a good thing lol.

Okay here is a point I once put a very Hot 2275 VW type 1 in a 67 bug and everything was hunky dory till I hit about 120 then it just changed lanes but my hands did not move not a good feeling indeed.

 

[Stallion]

Okay, I see what you mean. I didn't know the opposing forces in automotives would come so early in the speed, but I do understand what you are saying.

Thanks!!

TR