If you are looking for a racy looking vehicle, but don't fancy any of the current offerings, why not build your own? There is a huge market for sports kit cars, ranging from the basic Locost right up to The latest Italian exotica. This article will try to give you a taste of what you could be driving if you decide to build it yourself.
So you have resolved to build your own kit car, but where do you start? I suggest that you examine a few models that are to your taste from a number of manufacturers. Taking for example, a Cobra replica, there are a wide range of build options as well as price levels and mechanical abilities needed. So you will need to put aside some money and look at your own spanner skills before you make a commitment to a certain manufacturer.
Next, I suggest that you check out the manufacturers Owners Club. Many have websites or forums where you can ask questions or check out would-be problems you may have. If the kit manufacturer offers poor support or below standard components, the forums are where you are told!
At this moment you should have a shortlist of possible kit car projects, a budget to work to and a fair idea of the mechanical skills you need. You now need to pick a kit. In order to make a choice, I suggest that you go to the kit car exhibitions or manufacturers open days and chat to other kit car builders. Remember, they have important experience in putting together your chosen model and can give you advice if you should get stuck with a particular problem.
Once you have bought a particular model, the work really starts. Even before the kit arrives, you should locate the cleanest, most mechanically sound donor car that you can. The better the donor, the better the finished sports car you will own. All recovered mechanical parts should be removed and cleaned as per the kit builders instructions. If you are not absolutely happy with the condition of a part then it should be replaced. Don't take risks with your safety. It is a good idea at this stage to get insurance cover for your kit project.
For most kit cars, constructing the automobile is relatively straightforward. Any manufacturer that has sold more than a few kits will have a comprehensive instruction manual listing every step, in the right order. If you have problems then go back to the manufacturer, Owners Club or forums. You will be surprised at how helpful your fellow kit builders are. It is in the manufacturers best interests to assist you as much as possible, and many have dedicated helplines for this purpose. After all, when you drive the car, you will become a traveling billboard for their brand.
After you have assembled the car you will need to ensure that any testing and required licensing is in order before taking to the road. Again, the manufacturer and Owners Club are the ideal people to point you in the right direction.
As you take your assembled sports car on the road, you will feel a sense of pride as you drive a hand built car that you put together yourself.
Mark Heywood runs
Premier Kit Cars, a website dedicated to helping enthusiasts decide and build their own kit cars.
