Why is the turning radius so bad? (Gen.1)

[Mark Linkous]

Good Morning All,I know people complaining about the turning radius has been brought ad nauseum. I am just trying to understand why? My limited knowledge has led me to believe that rear wheel drive cars usually have a much better turning radius than do front drivers. While I am sure the long wheel base has something to do with it. However, with a car that was decidely JDM, I find it strange that a car known to be a fixture on the narrow Tokyo streets would require a twelve point turn to execute to U-turn. I truly love my car so I do not mean this as a diatribe. Rather, just curious why the Y34 has such a wide radius. Could it be the engine packaging? Any thoughts?Happy Summer Driving Season,Mark

[audtatious]

Not all FWD cars have a bad turning radius either. With my Maxima, I have to negotiate turns like a cruise ship. In the wifes crappy Ford product (don't ask), it turns pretty tight.

[auditech10]

I am actually happy with the turning radius on my Y34. I have made U turns on normal residential streets with sometimes just barely running on the curb. Dont ever drive a Volvo S60 or maybe some other models. My S60R needs a 24 point turn it seems. I usually just try to kick the rear out to bring it along, haha.

[Bag302]

My 2004 Maxima was worse. Especially when pulling in between two other cars. Like at the grocery store.

[e319960]

The tech at my local dealer told me the reason the turning radius is so wide is because the tires would come off the rim if you were to make a full turn at high speed.

[auditech10]

And that doesnt go for every car??? Its just how the suspension is set up.

[BretUSN]

The turning radius on my 2000 SE is horrendous. 3 point turns turn into 10 point turns. I love the car otherwise but I wish I could make a U-Turn.