If you break down the two control arms of a double wishbone suspension into individual links, you get a multi-link suspension. The number of links can be increased or decreased; three, four, and five links all fall into this category, with five links being the best. Its advantage is greater flexibility in space arrangement, avoiding the fuel tank or motor. Simultaneously, thanks to the multiple connection points and damping bushings, it usually provides better vibration filtering, improving ride comfort. However, because its structural rigidity is relatively loose, its handling limits are generally lower than a double wishbone suspension. Therefore, multi-link suspensions are often used on the rear wheels to improve the vehicle’s comfort performance.
Having discussed independent suspension, let’s talk about non-independent suspension. Primarily used on the rear wheels, it has a simpler structure and focuses mainly on load-bearing capacity or cost control. There are only two types of non-independent suspension. The first is the torsion beam, favored by French cars. Although it’s an independent suspension, it connects the two wheels with a flexible crossbeam. The crossbeam helps absorb some bumps, thus achieving a balance between comfort and cost, making it a popular choice for many economy family cars.
The other type is the solid axle suspension, which rigidly connects the two wheels. It offers the least comfort but is extremely robust and can bear heavy loads, making it standard equipment for trucks and hardcore off-road vehicles. If you’ve ever ridden in an off-road vehicle, the intense bumps are often related to this structure.
In summary, judging the quality of a chassis requires considering three factors: first, the suspension structure, which determines the car’s foundation; second, the materials used, as their quality affects the chassis’s strength and lifespan; and finally, the tuning by each automaker is key to the final driving experience. All three factors need to be considered comprehensively.
Among the many chassis combinations, the worst is the front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam, while the best is the combination of front double wishbone and rear multi-link, like the Maybach.
