In a rear-wheel drive vehicle, weight transfer during acceleration affects which aspect of the rear tires?

During acceleration in a rear-wheel drive vehicle, weight transfer occurs toward the rear of the car. This transfer of weight increases the load on the rear tires, which ultimately affects the contact patch. The contact patch is the area of the tire that is actually in contact with the road surface, and it plays a crucial role in determining the tire's grip and performance.

When weight is added to the rear tires due to acceleration, the larger contact patch can enhance traction, allowing for better acceleration and handling. A larger contact patch generally increases the tire's ability to grip the road, which is crucial for performance, especially in a vehicle designed for speed and power.

While other factors such as friction coefficient, rolling resistance, and tire pressure play significant roles in overall tire performance, the direct effect of weight transfer during acceleration specifically influences the contact patch because it directly changes the distribution of weight on the tires. A better understanding of this concept is vital for optimizing performance in rear-wheel drive vehicles.