Cars with Rear Mounted Transmission
Introduction
A rear-mounted transmission (RMT) is a type of automotive transmission where the gearbox is located at the rear of the vehicle, behind the engine. This layout is often used to improve weight distribution and handling, as it places the heavier components of the drivetrain closer to the center of the vehicle. RMTs are typically found in sports cars, performance cars, and some commercial vehicles.
Advantages of Rear-Mounted Transmissions
* Improved weight distribution: Placing the transmission at the rear of the vehicle helps to improve weight distribution, which can lead to better handling and stability.
* Reduced polar moment of inertia: The polar moment of inertia is a measure of how difficult it is to rotate an object around its center of mass. By placing the transmission at the rear of the vehicle, the polar moment of inertia is reduced, which can make the vehicle more agile and responsive.
* Improved traction: Rear-mounted transmissions can help to improve traction by placing more weight over the rear wheels. This can be beneficial in slippery conditions or when towing a heavy load.
* Better packaging: Rear-mounted transmissions can free up space in the engine compartment, which can be used for other components, such as a larger engine or a more spacious cabin.
Disadvantages of Rear-Mounted Transmissions
* Increased cost: Rear-mounted transmissions are more complex and expensive to manufacture than front-mounted transmissions.
* Reduced accessibility: Rear-mounted transmissions are more difficult to access for maintenance and repairs.
* Increased noise and vibration: Rear-mounted transmissions can create more noise and vibration than front-mounted transmissions.
* Reduced luggage space: Rear-mounted transmissions can reduce the amount of luggage space available in the vehicle.
Types of Rear-Mounted Transmissions
There are two main types of rear-mounted transmissions:
* Transaxle: A transaxle is a single unit that combines the transmission and differential. This type of transmission is often used in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles.
* Separate transmission and differential: This type of transmission has the transmission and differential located in separate housings. This type of transmission is often used in rear-wheel drive vehicles.
Applications of Rear-Mounted Transmissions
Rear-mounted transmissions are typically found in sports cars, performance cars, and some commercial vehicles. Some of the most notable examples of vehicles with rear-mounted transmissions include:
* Porsche 911
* Chevrolet Corvette
* Ferrari F430
* Lamborghini Murciélago
* Ford GT
* Toyota Supra
* Mazda RX-7
* Nissan Skyline GT-R
* Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
* Subaru Impreza WRX STI
* Mercedes-Benz G-Class
* Volkswagen Transporter
* Ford Transit
Conclusion
Rear-mounted transmissions offer several advantages over front-mounted transmissions, including improved weight distribution, handling, and traction. However, they are also more complex and expensive to manufacture, and they can reduce accessibility, luggage space, and noise and vibration. Rear-mounted transmissions are typically found in sports cars, performance cars, and some commercial vehicles.
