Bottom line: MacPherson struts are cheap, compact and easy to service, while double‑wishbone setups deliver sharper handling and more adjustability but add weight, cost and packaging challenges.
MacPherson Strut vs Double Wishbone Suspension: Which Is Better?
Image: MacPherson Strut vs Double Wishbone Suspension: Which Is Better? – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
MacPherson struts combine the shock absorber and steering pivot into a single unit that bolts directly to the wheel hub. The design is simple – a tall strut tower in the engine bay and a lower control arm. This makes it easy to fit in front‑wheel‑drive cars where space is at a premium.
Double‑wishbone suspension uses two short, roughly triangular arms (upper and lower) that form a “wishbone” shape. The arms attach to the chassis at two points, allowing the wheel to move up and down while keeping its camber more consistent. Visually, it looks more complex, and the upper mount often sits behind the wheel, giving the car a sportier stance.
Performance & Mileage
Because the double‑wishbone keeps the wheel more level through cornering, it provides better grip and more precise steering feel. Enthusiasts love it for track days and high‑speed cornering. MacPherson struts, while not as perfect in camber control, are still very capable for daily driving and most street performance. They tend to be lighter, which can improve fuel economy (mileage) by a few percent, especially on smaller engines.
In real‑world tests, cars with double‑wishbones usually shave 0.1‑0.2 seconds off a lap time compared to a similar model with MacPherson struts. However, the difference is most noticeable when the driver pushes the car hard.
Price & Rivals
Manufacturers favor MacPherson struts because they cost less to produce and occupy less space – a big win for compact sedans and SUVs. Double‑wishbone designs are common on performance‑oriented models like the Honda Civic Si, Mazda MX‑5, and many sports cars.
When you compare the overall cost of ownership, a MacPherson‑based car will usually have lower parts prices and simpler repairs. Double‑wishbone cars may require more frequent alignment checks and have higher bolt‑on part costs.
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| N/A | N/A | N/A | MacPherson: compact, cheap, easy service |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | Double Wishbone: better camber control, sporty handling, adjustability |
FAQ
- What is the main advantage of a MacPherson strut? It saves space and cost, making it ideal for front‑wheel‑drive cars and everyday drivers.
- Do double‑wishbone suspensions improve fuel economy? Not directly; they add weight and complexity, so mileage is usually similar or slightly lower than a comparable MacPherson setup.
- Which suspension is better for track use? Double‑wishbone, because it keeps the tire’s contact patch more stable during aggressive cornering.
What’s your experience with either suspension type? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
