You want the least amount of surface area, to exert the maximum downforce for the tires to break any ice elements on the road. The thinner the tires the better. Also the smaller the diameter, you can get more cushioning ie higher profile tires, so the ride will be more comfortable and your wheels won't break if you drive over a large potholes at high speeds.
Large mass also means it is more difficult for lighter / weaker humans to manoeuvre so chances of getting into accidents can be higher. Not to mention larger wheels make it harder for sudden change in directions, so you will be stuck head on.
Honestly in terms of safety, the safety rules for sedans are stricter than SUV (which is still classified as light truck).. eg rollover etc.
There are tons of counter argument why sedans / wagons like Audi AllRoad or Subaru Outbacks are better.. eg if you get T boned, lower CoG you won't flip as easily and hurt your neck etc.
Strong != safe car. It depends on the car designers method of dissipating the energy from the sudden deceleration.
Quote:
Originally Posted by d87c
SUV has more weight compared to a sedan
SUV also have 17 inch tires or 18 if you upsize for winter tires, greater surface area
greater surface area + more weight + winter tires, you aren't likely to swerve or slide.
Snow is not dangerous as you can just be trapped.
But ice is dangerous as you can slide and hit other cars.
Also we don't get a lot of snow here in Vancouver Area, so we can say we rarely will be stuck on the road. However, we'll definitely have lots of icy roads.
But since SUV's tires have more surface area and larger mass(weight) so this is why I think its safer
Also compare to a sedan, SUV tend to be stronger and safer in a way that if you were to go head to head collision, SUV will definitely win.
tho safer stronger car, might have to go American =) like Ford lol, but naw!
As for parking, I admit, my gf suck at it lol, most girls can't park, but I think most SUV nowadays have the technology which parks for you =) she will definitely be using that haha
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