Why Supercars Aren’t Always Aerodynamic

In this CFD comparison, I simulate a Volkswagen Arteon and a Lamborghini Revuelto at 80 mph to see where drag and downforce are really being produced. Surprisingly, the Arteon comes out lower drag (Cd 0.29 vs 0.33), while the Lamborghini produces real downforce (−22.7 kg vs +37 kg lift). Using velocity planes, pressure fields, and drag production orbits, we find exactly where each car wins — and where hidden drag lives. Both cars are simulated in the same CFD setup at 80 mph with identical domain size, ground model, and turbulence settings. These results are best used for relative comparison to understand aerodynamic patterns, not as research-validated performance claims. In this video you’ll see: • Where most automotive drag is actually produced • How wheel wakes dominate rear separation • Why diffusers stabilize pressure and reduce unsteadiness • How drag and downforce trade against each other • Why a sedan can beat a supercar in efficiency • What features create “hidden drag” CHAPTERS: 00:00 Wake comparison & surprise result 01:25 The wake — where drag is born 04:35 The diffuser — why the Lambo stabilizes pressure 7:00 Rear wheels & wake contamination 8:22 Front wheels & shielding effects 9:40 Front aero & stagnation control 12:45 Lift vs downforce 13:40 What I would change on each car