Revision as of 22:14, 10 September 2011

A spoiler helps aid airflow on the car, usually to increase downforce (with th eside effect of increasing drag). They are often fitted to coupes. Spoilers were part of the Datsun 1200 FIA homologation. Sometimes they are called "wings" but a true wing is something different. The purpose of a spoiler is to aid airflow, not to create lift but usually to counter it.

The "FIA" style rear spoiler -- aka Bobtail, Ducktail, etc.
Classic old-school "bobtail spoiler"

The classic old-school "bobtail spoiler" works by stablising and slowing the rotational velocity of the bound vortex at the rear of the vehicle. Effectively a vertical strip of material at the tip of the boot (trunk) will do the same. The result is reduced lift and reduced drag. In simple terms, a bob tail works by increasing the air pressure on the rear of the car relative to if it weren't there.

Also see: Air dam (from air dam "spoilers")
Wing for rear spoiler

"Wing" style spoiler