As motorsports evolve with technological advancements, aerodynamics plays a
crucial role in race car performance. This review examines the impact of
aerodynamics on car design and its evolution, presenting a statistical analysis
of existing sports cars. We highlight key performance factors like engine power,
top speed, drag, and weight. The key contribution of this review is the critical
synthesis of the safety-performance trade-off, especially linking aerodynamic
optimizations to the stability and safety of sports cars. Furthermore, we
explore mathematical modeling of vehicle aerodynamics to enhance the
understanding of performance aspects such as top speed, acceleration, cornering,
and braking. This article also provides a review of recent active and passive
aerodynamic devices to assist researchers in selecting designs, with an emphasis
on the importance of ground effect. We also present recent numerical methods,
particularly 3D simulations. The statistical data can help researchers determine
optimal design parameters. Lowering drag enhances top speed, reducing weight
improves acceleration, and increasing downforce shortens braking distance.
Compared to passive devices, active aerodynamic devices offer greater
adaptability, providing enhanced downforce and stability.
