The first time i drove the Reynard i had previously only driven a 75′ Royale RP21 and a 2011 Ray. Compared to the Royale , the Reynard is much stiffer and has better weight distribution and balance, not having to much understeer or oversteer. Furthermore the bodywork is more streamlined and comparable to modern formula fords rather than classics. Compared to the Modern Ray, there isn’t a huge difference, it’s more suited for dry conditions as the chassis is stiffer and it has a wider track length.
Compared to most cars, it’s key advantage is being so stable through fast corners, it’s ability to change direction so swiftly without the back overstepping or the front not gripping gives it an edge over the Van Diemen’s it usually faces.
Specification
- Chassis FF92
- Engine: Ford Kent 1600cc
- Gearbox: Hewland LD200
- Tyres: Avon ACB10
- Weight: 420Kg
As is the case with the modern cars, the more aerodynamically shaped the bodywork is , the more wind can affect the balance of the car through corners, typically side winds can through the balance of meaning small corrections are necessary , compared to the royale which was less stream lined in terms of bodywork meaning the affect of side winds is still felt , but doesn’t unsettle the car as much.
Main changes I’ve felt make the most difference to the Reynard is tweaking the front anti rollbar depending on the track as some tracks require a softer front anti roll bar and vice versa.
Overall the biggest lesson the car has taught me is how to find the very limit of the car and be able to push the car just enough that the balance isn’t disrupted but your ,”squeezing the lemon” if you will so that you extract the most performance out of the car consistently and understand how the car reacts on the limit.
