[dsfyu404ed]

>Gas cars got fast out of nowhere because it moves units and CAD changed everything for engine design.

Gas cars got fast because sufficiently high quality computer control matured to the point where making a high power for its size/weight engine that both met emissions standards and reliability expectations and did so at a reasonable price point was doable.

The ability to actually build the hardware has preceded the ability to run it in a reliable and emissions compatible manner ever since we've had emissions rules. Having better FEA software so some engineer could shave a gram off a piston, get his bonus for achieving his KPI and ensure half a million engines start knocking at 120k on the dot was never the bottleneck.

[jackmott42]

I think everyone trying to name a single first order reason for more power is wrong. I think many little innovations occurred and became possible for various reasons.

1. better computer control 2. advances in variable cam timing mechanisms 3. direct injection 4. coil on plug ignition systems 5. improvements in sensors (knock sensors, mass air, oxygen, etc) 6. improvements in machining/forging etc leading to tighter tolerances 7. improvements in engine oils

probably dozens of other things

[TheSpiceIsLife]

Computer modelling also helped in optimising airflow in and out of the combustion chamber.

[xeromal]

It doesn't help that modern engines can't use leaded gas like the days of old. Leaded gas acted as a crutch for many years