"window" or "space" separating driving *close* to optimum performance and
actually *at* it. My sense (mine only) is that the greater the slip angles,
drift capabilities, difference between straight-line speeds and cornering
speeds, etc., the easier it will be for an "average" capable racing driver
to get closer to the latter. That "space" will be larger, easier to
inhabit, as the car gives more sustained (and answerable) signals that it is
on the verge of breaking loose, etc.
So a question arises: what developments have altered that space?
In this scenario, one might see the "easyness" factor as something that has
been oscillating, ever since the arrival of wings, radial tires (which gave
far less signal than old bias-ply), carbon-fiber brakes, complicated
aerodynamics, mega-horsepower, paddle-shifting, (the arrival and dissipation
of various tire wars), active-suspension, throttle control, grooved tyres,
etc.
Why should there be one linear graph over time of "easiness-to-drive"?
Wouldn't it be more likely that, if indeed graphed (by what variables?), it
would more likely be a rather jagged line?
We need to step away from "heros of the past" vs "heroes of the present." I
think some of this reflects a constant narrative in almost any look
backwards: "them were gods in those days." And of course, its equally
unreflective reply about the present.