SAFETY AND THE DRIVING SEAT

Evening Star, Issue 21945, 4 February 1935, Page 6

SAFETY AND THE DRIVING SEAT

Self-styled sporting drivers, who apparently imagine that the first essential in a speed model is to have the front seat so placed that an extremely low driving position is secured, recently received a rap over the knuckles from the British motor Press. In pointing out the fallacies of such a practice the ‘ Motor ’ states: “ It has been fostered bv the confusion of what is ‘ low and rakish,’ with what is ‘ sporting.’ Imaginary emulation of the racing driver is the main inspiration of a low seating position. Yet all the leading racing men, sit high up in their cars, for only thus have they full control.” Those statements are vindicated by photographs of some of the ioreniost contest drivers, which indicate that they have the scat so arranged that they are in an almost holt upright position when at the wheel.

“ People,” comments the same journal, “ will put up with the disadvantages which a low seat offers simply because it is the fashion.” The main objections to an unduly low and reclining driving position are that strain and fatigue are usually increased, vision is often restricted b.V the bonnet of the car, and the driver is

not in the best situation for making quick movements when operating the controls. Frequently he has to peer through the spokes of the wheel, or to raise himself in order to see the kerb when parking. “We have grown accustomed, the ‘Motor’ adds, “to seeing drivers of these cars labouring under their difficulties. When we meet a car driven by a person who can only peer through and round the steering wheel we subconsciously pull over and give a little more room. It is such a familiar sight that we grow tired of criticising. In contrast, it is refreshing to see a driver sitting well up in his ear, in the position which gives maximum visibility and control. The racing .driver, the serious rally and trial competitors, and long-distance tourists all know the value of correct seating. It would be well to imitate them punctiliously.