The Complete Guide to Driving a Sports Car
In 2019, over 17 million vehicles were sold in the U.S.
We rely on cars to get from A to B but for those who can afford it, sports cars are a fantastic way to ride in style. Yet with so many models available, it’s difficult to understand how to safely drive a sports car.
If driving a sports car is alien for you, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know.
What is a Sports Car?
Before we dive into how to drive a sports car, it’s important to answer your burning question: “what is a sports car?”
Sports cars have a low-built design so they can perform at high speeds and most have two doors along with a roof that can be folded back.
If you’re buying a sports car and want to know more about a Ferrari vs a Lamborghini, check out the link.
The Ultimate Guide to Driving a Sports Car
You’ve got the newest model and you want to learn how to drive a sports car. Although features differ depending on the brand, these are the basics for sports car driving.
Consider these, for example.
Learn How to Accelerate
What is the acceleration button on sports cars? Otherwise known as the throttle, this helps your car move forward.
Driving schools teach you that when you accelerate, the weight goes to the rear of the car and when you broke, the weight shifts to the front.
This means when you’re driving a sports car, you mustn’t jerk your throttle, only do it progressively so the vehicle isn’t unsettled. This is crucial in a high-powered sports car like a Corvette.
Shift Quickly But Smoothly
When you move between gears, you must do it as smoothly as possible. Pause for a second in between gears then slide the leaver into the next one. Avoid jamming the gear level otherwise it’ll harm the mechanics of your sports car and if it’s regular, the car may need a repair.
Prepare for a Corner
Unlike regular vehicles, you must focus on the drive so you’re fast but safe. It’s important to listen to every vibration or noise your car makes so you know what it’s going to do next especially as you approach corners.
You must be balanced and maintain a neutral throttle before a turn and you should have practiced on normal roundabouts at a regular speed. This lets you consider how your car feels and its weight so you can brake and turn the corner correctly.
As a general rule, you should almost be finished braking when you start turning the steering wheel. When you do this, the braking is almost complete when you’re about to turn to ensure you’re safe.
Take Your Time
Even though it’s tempting to zoom around town, it’s important to be patient. Sports cars are often more capable than the driver so you must learn the responses and speed up incrementally to avoid any accidents.
Most driving schools also say you must be smooth with your input. Always pause before doing anything so your car can move safely and so you’re not panicked at the high speed.
Always Look Ahead
Like with a regular car, you must look ahead properly to avoid hiccups. When you do this, your subconcious tells your hands and feet where to go so the drive is smoother.
Looking forward also clears your mind, lets you focus on the driving, and prevent bumping into other drivers.
Use the “Heel and Toe” Method
Practice the “heel and toe” method where you simultaneously brake and downshift. This is where you rotate the foot on your brake over to the gas pedal and increase the rpms (revolutions per minute )while still braking.
It’s an advanced driving technique but once you’ve mastered it, your driving will be smoother and it will reduce wear on your car’s inner components.
Know How to Brake
In a high-performance car, you’ll inevitably be going fast.
But, to protect yourself and others, you mustn’t stab your feet on the brake pedal to stop. Instead, push down slowly like in a regular car and never slam as it could damage your sports car.
Learn How to Drive Up Inclines
Driving up any incline, even your driveway, takes practice. It’s important to have spatial awareness and pay attention so you don’t scratch your undercarriage.
Most sports cars are low to have a better center of gravity so be mindful when you’re coming up a driveway. If yours is too steep, check whether your vehicle has a front axle lift option or find a similar aftermarket tool.
Staying Balanced
As mentioned, weight is redistributed when you’re driving fast and you must be hyper-aware of this as you drive. You must keep the car’s chassis flat so there’s no pressure on any tire otherwise the lean will strain a certain area of the vehicle.
Staying balanced is essential and to help you remember, imagine driving your car with a glass of water on the dashboard that you mustn’t spill.
Be Mindful of Other Drivers
Sports cars make a statement so don’t be surprised when people gawp at you. But, more importantly, there are drivers who can’t resist racing someone in a sports car especially when they have their own high-performance car.
You may even be one of them, and if you are an adrenaline junkie, remember races aren’t for everyday traffic in a city so be mindful of other drivers.
That’s Everything About Driving a Sports Car
Now you know everything about driving a sports car.
As a final pro-tip, make sure your favorite machine is insured, whether it’s from State Farm Ballwin, MO, or another company of your choice. Always use a reputed car shipper to transport and avoid any mishap while shipping your sports car.
Always be mindful of other drivers, maintain a netural throttle, and slowly press down on your brakes. Take extra precaution when you’re going up steep inclines or turning around corners so practice first.
If you’re finding it difficult, find a local high-performance driving school to learn about the basics to ensure you and others are safe. Happy driving!
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