What format would be preferable on the track, a coupe or a hatchback? Wouldn't the coupe have a better weight balance and maybe less understeer because of this? Wouldn't a coupe have a closer to a 50/50 weight balance compared to a hatch. I know the coupe weighs more but there has to be some benefit to having more weight in the back, right?

 

anyone? ttt

 

Given the fact that the two cars have identical mechanicals, the coupe's weight at the back becomes essentially dead weight. Whatever little advantage is offered by the slightly better weight distribution is far outweighed by the weight penalty.

 

looking at my original 93 honda civic brouchure There's only a difference of 64lbs between the Si hatch and the EX coupe...so, it's pretty much whatever you want cause you can make up the difference really easily. THOUGH, the CX is 296 lbs lighter!

 

If you race a coupe that weighs that much, it is because you left the A/C compressor in, the sunroof, the seats, interior panels, etc., etc.
Race weight of a hatch is much less, like around 2200 for a stripped tub w/cage.
Race weight of a coupe is a lot higher. That 64 pound penalty is more like 200 on track.

 

The 92-95 Si and EX are listed in SCCA ITS and (oddly if not surprisingly) the hatch is spec'd at 25# MORE than the coupe. Your guess is as good as mine and I've been getting SCCA rulebooks for almost 20 years now...

Kirk