FMR layout

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Sketch of FMR layout
Sketch of FMR layout

The FMR layout, standing for front mid-engine, rear wheel drive, is a layout of an automobile that places the engine in the front, like the FR layout, but pushed back enough that the engine's center of gravity is to the rear of the front axle. This aids in weight distribution and reduces the moment of inertia, helping handling. Technically FMR is a subcategory of FR, since the engine is still in the front of the car, and FMR cars still have rear wheel drivetrains.

FMR cars are often recognizable by a long hood and front wheels unusually close to the front bumper of the car. Grand tourers usually have FMR layouts, as a rear engine would not leave much space for the rear seats.

Typical cars with FMR layouts are Aston Martin Vanquish and V8 Vantage 2005, Chevrolet Corvette, 4th Generation Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird, Dodge Viper, Honda S2000, Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, Maserati Quattroporte, Mazda RX-7 and RX-8, Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, BMW Z4, Nissan 350Z, Porsche 928, 944, and 968.