I think it's a fairly simple explanation with some very complex engineering behind it: the AWD and PDK simply put the power to the ground much more effectively than the Balboni and SLS, particularly in and out of the corners. Tanner commented several times on how well the car appeared to get out of the corners so quickly.

If the PTT was RWD, then I think we all know it would be a different story. The rear end would hang out on every corner and it would be several seconds slower, at best. If you look at the times of the Gallardo AWD v the Balboni, it's clear that AWD makes a major difference in track results.

Now, if this were a drifting contest, it would be a different story for the Balboni/SLS...but it's not a drifting contest, is it???

 

There is no rule that 4WD cars are faster than 2WD on track, it's not always traction, both have advantages and disadvantages, 458 Italia is faster than all of them but Balboni beats 458 on straight line acceleration..

 

I'm enjoying this discussion for obvious reasons.

 

I'm enjoying the discussion because I have a 997 for speed and a 970 for transportation

 

I'm confused.

http://www.roadandtrack.com/var/ezflow_site/storage_RT_NEW/storage/original/application/5121d33d79730085db1abeb3d5e4aad0.pdf

 

+1...obviously not a racer

 

+1

but a 970 is not really for racing. A 970 is for touring. A 997 is for racing. Argue about that instead.

 

very impressive for a sedan

 

Having a Gallardo and a Panamera, the all wheel drive is a big part of the great lap time for the Panamera. The PDk transmission also helped its time, even if its just a few tenths.

Being a die hard Top Gear fan, I am having a hard time getting into the US version of the show. Tanner Foust is the only one that I can stomach watching. I just sent in to Top Gear BBC to put my name in for the reserve ticket list.