Based on the info from the thread on the HHR SS automatic, this reduction in horsepower for first and second gears with the optional auto. transmission got me to thinking, has there ever been anything like it with any other car? Seems like GM is breaking ground with this one. I've heard of electronic speed governors, rev limiters, and the like. But never where the engine management computer robs output 15 HP for the first and second gears... then gives it back for third and fourth.

To your knowledge, has there ever been a car with anything quite like this?

 

My SRT4 in stock form would limit boost in 1st gear to 10psi, then get full boost (15) in every other gear, so they may be limiting boost to control HP in 1st and 2nd as well

 

But why in just the automatic???

 

You would think the same would apply for the manual tranny.

Full boost and first gear could sure burn out a clutch in a hurry.

 

I was just reading about the new Caliber SRT4 and they do the same thing. Limit the power in 1st and 2nd gear and thats with a manual tranny.

 

That manual they are using is designed for the motor. The auto is the standard 4speed they are currently using. Hard driving will burn the clutch faster. Just ask and 3rd gen owners.

 

I really think they should offer a beefed up auto as an option, for those who don't want the reduced power. But that's prolly a pipe dream.

 

They should follow the good old saying: "If you're going to do something, do it right."

Even if this is a base, affordable car once you start to deal with SS versions it shouldn't be addressed as an affordable vehicle.

I'd pay a few extra bucks if GM spent a few extra bucks developing a more stout tranny for the SS version. Why be cheap and put in what's laying around and have that be the weak link of the vehicle?

 

I wounder who found that info out???? LOL

 

Just a thought......

reduction for 1st, 2nd and final drive could have been for emissions certification. I know they were experiencing some problems with that.