[masraum]

Originally Posted by RKDinOKC

My experiences has been that at about 110mph is usually when the aerodynamics of and automobile starts effecting how much horsepower is required to increase speed. It is not really just gearing that limits the higher speeds.

In discussions of how fast car go I've heard people quote the gearing top speeds. I then asked them how fast they driven the car. It was usually much lower than their quoted top speed. When I asked why they usually say they were afraid for on reason or another to take it any faster. Tell them the fastest speed their car goes is the fastest speed they are willing to drive it.

For example I had a BoxsterS. Porsche quoted it's top speed at 168mph. Over 125 it started getting twitchy and at 140 it was down right scary and I would NOT attempt to drive it any faster. So despite the quoted top speed of 168 the actual top speed was 140.

I'd say that you're correct. Most of the cars that I've driven have had the power to get to around 100-115, although I have driven a car or two that topped out in the 90s and 1 that topped out at about 65-70mph.

My old '88 targa did once hit redline in 5th gear which should be around 150mph. It was a little floaty. It was running on good, but old shocks and had a front but no rear spoiler which wasn't ideal.

I haven't yet had or taken the opportunity to test the Boxster. I think I've been in the 130-140mph range, but can't remember exactly. I'm usually either on roads in town or have the missus along. Neither of those factors are conducive of high speed runs. My car's got the PASM suspension and supposedly tops out at 170 or 171. I'd like to try it sometime, but who knows when/if I'll ever get the chance.