Technical Why is the gas pedal set back?

[andy2]

I've got a Grande Punto for the day as a courtesy car while my (non Grande) Punto is in for a service. I was quite pleased to get one because I've been curious to know what they're like.

Anyway, my problem is with the pedals - they aren't in line! The accelerator pedal is set back 2 or 3 inches behind the brake and clutch pedal. This means I can't just twist my ankle from accelerator to brake. I have to lift my foot back and then press the brake. Just 20 minutes driving gave me a aching ankle. Apart from this, surely it's more dangerous? It'd take a fraction longer to press the brake in an emergency, than if the brake+gas pedal were at the same position.

Is my GP just defective or was it really designed this way (surely not)? Assuming it's not defective, will all new Fiats be like this?

 

[washinpowder]

i dont think mine is like that, ive never really checked, all i know is that its far comfier than any car ive driven

 

[SkinzCinqSporting]

You will find most cars have the accelerator set back, so you have to lift off the gas to brake

 

[T14086]

:yeahthat:

 

[andy2]

You will find most cars have the accelerator set back, so you have to lift off the gas to brake

I've never seen a car with pedals like this before, although apart from a few Puntos I've only ever driven Vauxhalls and Fords.

I did get used to it and I started finding the GP good fun to drive before I had to give it back.

 

[SkinzCinqSporting]

I've never seen a car with pedals like this before, although apart from a few Puntos I've only ever driven Vauxhalls and Fords.

I did get used to it and I started finding the GP good fun to drive before I had to give it back.

Maybe it's on newer cars then, probably a bit of EU legislation.

 

[sandal100]

i drove my mates mini and its like that, i asked why and he said most cars were like that and thought it was wierd my mk2b had pedals that were all in line, he gave same reason as above, come to think of it dads peugoet is the same.