Comparative Study of the Performance of Macpherson and Multi-Link Suspensions in Dynamic Conditions

Abstract

This paper presents a comparative study between two representative automotive suspension architectures, namely the MacPherson strut and the Multilink system, with the objective of evaluating their dynamic behaviour and vibration response when subjected to different operating conditions. The analysis was conducted through virtual simulations in ADAMS/View, focusing on the suspension subsystem without steering components, and included both time-domain and frequency-domain evaluations. Kinematic investigations were first performed, examining camber angle variation versus wheel travel, which directly influences lateral grip and tire–road contact stability. Dynamic analyses were carried out by simulating vehicle response when crossing standardized road obstacles, where body accelerations and oscillation damping characteristics were monitored, thus providing an indication of ride comfort and vibration decay. In addition, a sine sweep excitation was applied to study transmissibility and resonance behaviour over a broad frequency spectrum, highlighting the suspension’s ability to isolate vibrations from the chassis. Finally, a performance synthesis was realized through a KPI radar chart, integrating comfort, stability, toe control, durability, and grip into a comparative framework.