On most cars, using the launch control system is the fastest way of get off the line. However, there are some models in which the launch control can be beaten, as you will see in the following video from Car&Driver.
The idea behind launch control is to limit wheel-spin and increase traction to ensure the fastest possible acceleration. However, using launch control is not always the fastest way to accelerate from standstill.
In the case of the SRT Viper, the enormous amount of torque (600 lb-ft/813 Nm) is a tough nut to crack for the launch control system, which can be beaten by the sensitive right foot of an experienced driver.
C&D’s technical editor Eric Tingwall noticed that during the launch control sequence there’s too much going on with the rear wheels and set out to prove he can be faster without using it.
The video demonstrates the Viper’s launch control feature, and then shows one can get even faster acceleration times using the normal start procedure. You can find out how faster from the video posted below.
By Dan Mihalascu
VIDEO