Covini C6W Spider
Ferruccio Covini first conceived the Covini C6W back in 1974, featuring front wheels of 10" in diameter due to the absence of low profile tyres at the time. The project was shelved in favour of the Soleado prototype and was not revisited until the 1980s when the aim to optimize weight distribution for various loading conditions resulted in the invention of hydro-pneumatic suspension for the car's four front wheels. Unfortunately, due to prohibitive development costs and other contingencies, the project was delayed yet again. Fast-forward to the 1990s, and Covini's new incorporation of ABS and airbags technologies signified an era of research into active and passive safety, re-sparking interest and backing from various companies.
Why six wheels?
- in case of a front tyre deflation, the vehicle control is guaranteed by the other wheel next to it.
- four front disc brakes, although a smaller single area, ensure a greater braking surface; this means less overheating and a higher brake effort
- low risk of aquaplaning, due to the two foremost wheels, which wipe the water for the ones behind them, ensuring a better roadholding
- comfort is a consequence of more evenly distributed reaction forces in the supension: the reaction in case of a pot hole is divided between the four front wheels and the shudder in the chassis is limited.
- reduced unsprung weight in the wheels improves the grip. Directional stability is improved: a change of angle due to slack in the steering mechanism (in stuctures like silentblocks) is compensated by the second set of wheels.
- two additional springs and dampers provide a better handling for the vehicle.
Technical Specifications
- ENGINE: rear, longitudinal, 8 cylinder in V formation, 4 valves per cylinder, naturally aspirated, petrol direct injection Bosch-motronic.
- CAPACITY: 4200 cc
- MAX POWER: 380 PS (260KW) at 6400 rpm
- MAX TORQUE: about 450 Nm (45.9 Kgm) at 2700 rpm
- TRANSMISSION: rear wheel drive transaxle
- GEARBOX: mechanical 6-speed + reverse. Manual and electro-hydraulic steeringwheel mounted servo
- CHASSIS: steel tubular with carbon fibre reinforcements and structural parts
- SUSPENSION: independent front and rear wishbones
- WHEELS AND TYRES: front 16in wheels with 215/45-16 tyres; rear 20in with 345/25-20 tyres
- BRAKES: front and rear vented Brembo discs. Bosch servo and electronic brake distribution
- BODYWORK: glass fibre and carbon fibre
- DIMENSIONS: length 4180mm; width 1990mm; height 1080mm; wheelbase 2230mm/2750mm (to foremost/middle front transaxle); front track 1540mm; rear track 1620mm ; dry weight 1150 kg
- TOP SPEED: 300 km/h (185mph)
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