Technical Specs

Zips racing engineering student organization at The University of Akron

The original 1990 Akron Zips Racing car placed 15th out of 42 entries in its first competition at Formula SAE Michigan.

FIRST ZIPS RACING CAR - 1990

General

  • Weight: 750 lbs.
  • Power: Approximately 50 horsepower
  • Torque: Not measured
  • Top Speed: Approximately 80 mph
  • Acceleration from 0-60 mph: Not measured
  • Maximum lateral acceleration: 1.05 G’s continuous
  • Tires: Goodyear

Engine

  • 1989 Suzuki GSXR600
  • Equal length header pipes
  • Equal length intake runners with an aluminum intake manifold
  • Keihin carburetor

Chassis

  • 1” outer diameter 1020 DOM steel of various wall thicknesses

Aerodynamics

  • No aerodynamic downforce devices

Suspension

  • Double A-arm
  • Direct-acting coilover dampers at all four corners
  • Lighten Ford Pinto front spindles on the front
  • Volkswagen Rabbit modified half shafts and modified front bearing carriers in the rear

Brakes

  • Two 1989 Suzuki GSXR600 front calipers in the front
  • One Honda CB900 front caliper in the rear mounted on the differential
  • Fixed still discs
  • Volkswagen Rabbit tandem master cylinder

Drivetrain

  • Chain driven
  • Volkswagen Rabbit open differential

Electronics

  • 1989 Suzuki GSXR600 OE electronic ignition system