The wings aren't on the car just for top speed. In order for an F1 car to exceed 200 MPH with that much downforce they have to actually "power through it". Not a very efficient way to go fast and THAT is why anyone trying to go fast AVOIDS using them when possible..
You have to remember that the car was still created by a stylist first, then they went about figuring out how to keep it on the road...
All wings hinder performance as they create drag. I did read what you wrote and I don't think you know all of the details on how this car was designed and what the engineering targets were.
The 14 foot cars are in the unlimited class and yes they are shaped like rockets or belly tanks. These are the ones designed to do well over 200 ( or as fast as they can). Some of the smaller ones untilize aero because the class they run in limit engine size. Bullet motorcycles fit this category too and they may not even hit 200. These are purpose built for one thing only. Not all are bullet shaped. Most of the classes restrict what a person can do to the body of the car. The majority of the cars must conform to limited reshaping of the stock body. Lowering and channeling is a common practice but in many cases the roof line can only be changed a limited amount. Streamlining the nose is common. There are quite a number of Corvettes, Camaros and Mustangs out there that do over 200 MPH without TALL wings. There many cars that run the Silver State Classic that regularly break 200 without TALL wings.
...umm yeah, and some quantum centrifugal downforce...combined with laser-guided updraft. Eric!!! I'm a banker for God's sake!!! Watching "When Buildings Collapse" on Discovery is about as "science" as I get.
Should have stayed in school Bernie. BTW, before anyone asks, the company I work for is a supplier for the Veyron...
I think some people on here have been misunderstood. I think wings are a great way to help a car perform when necessary. Especially if it is computer controlled. The Veyron has all the right features, Style, Speed, and really just the panty-dropping feature many other cars don't have. I agree that not all wings are needed, (caugh caugh...honda civics) but I notice a huge diference on my 800HP nissan that I drive on the street. I built it for Freeway racing and it totally needs a wing!
