>Yes, weight is a factor. However, limos do not have soft suspensions. In >fact, the spring rates would surprise you. They are actually very truck >like. If you want to experience the difference that wheelbase makes, along >with a bit of weight, try driving a Mini, then climb into a Mini Clubman, >then a Mini Countryman (when it becomes available). The basic suspensions at >various option levels are virtually the same, like the GTV6/Milano >comparison. The prime difference is wheelbase. And, yes, you can make >anything stiff or soft using spring rates and shock valves. All things being >equal, the longer the softer.
The Clubman weighs about 200 lbs more than the Cooper. Longer generally involves more weight. Anyhow, I think I've beaten this horse to death. It's easy enough for Bruce to take a drive with a couple of passengers and see if that makes any difference. bs -- to be removed from alfa, see http://www.digest.net/bin/digest-subs.cgi or email "unsubscribe alfa" to [email protected]
