http://www.drivingfast.net/car-control/rev-matching.htm


Rev matching and gear shifting

Introduction

Each gear has an effective operating range of speeds which depend on the rev range of the engine. The faster the engine rotates, the quicker you can go – up to the point when you need to change up a gear. Within the operational rotational speeds of the engine, there is a range of optimum efficiency known as the 'power band', and this is where the fastest acceleration can be obtained (see Diagram 1).


Most gearboxes are designed so that when you change up a gear when accelerating, the next gear will be at the start of the engine's power band (see Diagram 2). This design provides maximum acceleration all the way up to the top speed of the car.
Diagram 2: Comparing the power bands in two gears

At most speeds, a selection of gears can be used (see Diagram 3).
Diagram 3: Gear choice at different speeds

In the illustration above the driver could choose second, third or forth gear. In second gear the engine speed would be at the top of the power band, not leaving room for much useful acceleration until the rev limiter is activated. In forth the revs would be too low, leading to sluggish performance (but perhaps decent fuel economy). In third gear the engine would be at start of the power band providing maximum acceleration – this would be the choice of the performance driver.
Changing up / up shifting

Lower gears provide greater acceleration due to a combination of the gearing and higher engine speeds. Therefore, when accelerating hold on the lower gears for as long as you can, but be careful not to hit the rev limiter (as this slows you down). Only change up when the engine has passed through the upper limits of the power band, not before.
Changing down / down shifting

When approaching a corner, you need to select a gear which will provide maximum acceleration at the exit, and this gear needs to be engaged before entering the corner. This means braking to the speed where you can safely turn into the bend, then shifting before turning in. Gear choice is especially important here – ideally you need to select a gear which will cause the engine speed to increase to a sensible point within the power band so that plenty of power is available when accelerating out of the turn. However if you do select the correct gear and let out the clutch swiftly, three things will happen:
  • Significant levels of engine braking will occur
  • In extreme cases, the wheels can lock up
  • Forward weight transfer will occur
None of these are good when you're trying to maintain control of a car driving at the limits of grip. Rev matching is the solution.
Introduction to rev matching

Rev matching is a technique which should be second nature if you want to be quick on the track.
When is it used? When changing down to create smooth, fast gear changes in a car with synchromesh*.
* Almost all modern cars have synchromesh, if you don't have it fitted you will need to 'double declutch'
What rev matching does:
  • Reduces stress on the driveline
  • Prevents forward weight transfers when down shifting
  • Reduces engine braking and chances of wheel lock
Note: On the track, use the brakes to slow down and the engine to accelerate. Engine braking is not as efficient, and will not slow you down quickly enough for track use. If you have time to use engine braking, you're not going as quickly as you could.