First, I have a 5AT but this should apply to both 5AT and 6MT owners.

Tonight I had to drive into work (5min drive), and the roads were slippery with some snow coming down but not sticking. Being that I wanted to be careful, I kept my speed to less than 40mph.

At 40mph I have two options:
A) 4th gear at 2000rpm.
B) 3rd gear at 2700rpm.
Now I understand that I get more torque at higher RPM (in this case, in 3rd gear) but my fuel efficiency goes down (which isn't an issue, because I'm 5min from work and this question is only regarding the rare occasion of driving in questionable conditions). So my question is, do I want the added torque of being in 3rd gear while driving in these conditions, or should I just keep it in 4th gear (where I normally do)?

Cheers! -Mike

 

You probably want the higher gear, as more torque can cause the tires to spin and lose control.

That's why some sports cars have a second gear start in wet weather - the second gear reduces the torque and provides greater control when changing from a standstill to movement.

Hope this helps.

 

Yep, that helps. Thanks!

 

i agree

 

There is no secret. If you are driving in the snow on OEM tires you will eventually get into trouble. Maybe not the next time or the time after but one day the 350Z is going to bite you in the ***. Guaranteed.

 

Fair enough, and I'll be buying all-seasons come fall, but in the meantime, if I want to keep my job, I have to be showing up to work, right?

 

Keep your wits about you and you will be fine. Its March so hopefully snow is about over. Good luck.

 

Why drive on No-Season tires?

It's not much more expensive (on the long run) to get 2 sets of tires. Factor in a fender bender and the winter tires pay for themselves out of your deductible!

Otherwise, yeah, what they said. Less torque is better to manage traction.

 

This might be an even better solution, if your only 5 mins from work driving then at most your like 15 min.s walking right? Give or take. So why not just walk it? This benefits you in three ways, 1) you don't have to worry about crashing due to the weather conditions, 2) you save gas and 3) it would be good excercise. Welp just an idea.

This walking thing might just be of thought since i'm from New York City, and you know we walk for miles hehe.

TSZ33
Chris

 

+1

Even on all seasons there is no gaurantee you won't get in an accident.
most crashes in the snow probably happen in non-sports cars w/all season
tires right? if you can and don't mind it... i think walking is the best bet.

 

[QUOTE=nsxster]You probably want the higher gear, as more torque can cause the tires to spin and lose control.


I agree..