Do wings and aero kits actually improve aerodynamics?

 

only if it is wind tunnel tested. some aero kits do allow for more air in the engine bay for added cooling. and those big wings really only work when you get to a certain speed. so i guess to answer your question.....no they dont really do anything around town except to try to look cool.

 

Uh.. well, some of them do actually work. Wind tunnel testing is not always a requirement of function, though. Many major japanese manufacturers do track test their products, which is enough proof for me. apexkw is right, however, in that most aerodynamic parts are only advantageous at higher speeds. So for street driving, they do their job and look good. 100+ MPH, some will help, some will hinder. try and stay away from the pepboys specials.

 

i agree.

 

So the aluminum rice wings don't work? Are FEED, Mazdaspeed, Knightsports, etc tested?

 

Yes. At the track. At speeds that normal traffic wont allow!

 

Oh, thanks! (yes, I'm referring to track data at all times)

 

You have to differentiate products developed by engineering principles (wind tunnel), racing (road track), or by fashion designers.



The stock 3rd gen body is very aerodynamic, it needs rear downforce at speeds >100mph, so the R1 lip & stock rear wing is just acceptable to +/- 160 mph (personal experience), but I would love to get the 99 & up rear adjustable wing.



Mazdaspeed tests aero parts in a wind tunnel according to their catalog. I do not know of other supplier that does this too.

 

Wind tunnel + racing is the best method. Anyone remember the horrific accidents on the Mercedes GTP cars caused by turbulence at the track?

 

Mazdaspeed wind tunnel tests everything.....



All the rest are pretty much just on the track..