Puzzle for October 16, 2008

Yesterday was the Anniversary of creating the longest skid marks in history!

In 1964, trying to set a new one mile land-speed record, Craig Breedlove accidentally set another record when he lost control of his jet-powered car, the Spirit of America. Moments into the run, the vehicle started skidding on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. It took nearly 6 miles to decelerate from a speed in excess of 400 mph.

According to Harris Technical, a regular passenger car brakes from 60 mph leaving a 160 foot skid mark.

What's the ratio between the two skid marks and their speed? Why do you think they're different?

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