Rear Engines
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Most cars have their engines up front. This layout strikes a good balance between space, weight distribution and handling -- particularly with front-wheel drive. But it’s not the only option. Early automobiles, like the Oldsmobile Curved Dash, placed engines under their seats. This mid-engine design is still favored in racing and high-performance vehicles. The rear-engine format, ideal for air-cooled motors, was used by Volkswagen and Corvair.
Most cars have their engines up front. This layout strikes a good balance between space, weight distribution and handling -- particularly with front-wheel drive. But it’s not the only option. Early automobiles, like the Oldsmobile Curved Dash, placed engines under their seats. This mid-engine design is still favored in racing and high-performance vehicles. The rear-engine format, ideal for air-cooled motors, was used by Volkswagen and Corvair.
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