Abstract
This article describes a theoretical model of an automobile with eleven degrees of freedom and its equations of motion. An attempt is made to develop a man-machine-road system in such a way that the transient response of the automobile can be examined for front wheel, rear wheel, and four wheel drive vehicles under a variety of maneuvers and road conditions. Several characteristics are compared and calculated, whilst the braking maneuver is briefly discussed. and the possibility of greater risk taking with safety devices. The seat belts appear to be a better "buy" than dual brakes, padded instrument panels, or energy absorbing steering columns.