Marlin 5EXi:CKC Guide 2009
9/10/09
20:38
Page 81
Marlin 5EXi
THE 5EXI IS manufactured and marketed by Marlin Cars and the product benefits enormously from Marlin’s vast knowledge and engineering knowhow. At the heart of the 5EXi is a spaceframe chassis onto which are bolted components designed and fabricated by Marlin. In typical Marlin fashion, a large number of components are used from these affordable donor cars, although vital components such as the double wishbone suspension and fabricated hub carriers are all made in house. The result is an affordable car which is easy to assemble yet has the potential to deliver supercar performance. Using the 1.6-litre twin-cam Honda engine means ultra modern performance up to 280bhp (Type R or VW) allied to the donor’s 5 or 6-speed gearbox. The 5EXi bodywork is supplied in a coloured gelcoat and both front and rear sections can be quickly removed for superb access to suspension, engine and other ancillaries. Recent developments have been the introduction of optional doors to ease access for daily use and the design of lightweight aluminium hubs and carriers. With its curved screen and ingenious soft-top arrangement, the Marlin is also surprisingly practical, while its long travel suspension gives a supple ride and its cable based gear linkage offers one of the best mid-engined changes in the business. For those looking for something other than a Cobra or Lotus Seven replica, the 5EXi offers a welcome breath of fresh air. SUMMARY – A terrific roadster with supercar performance potential from an affordable base package. Wild styling sets it well apart from the crowd.
SPECIFICATION CHASSIS: Spaceframe chassis which is clad in aluminium, and features a boltdown tubular steel rollcage. BODYWORK: Fibreglass panels offered in a gelcoat colour. DONOR CAR: Honda Civic or Audi A3, Seat, Skoda, etc. ENGINE OPTIONS: VW 20-valve 1.8 Turbo. Still available Honda Civic VTEC single or DOHC, plus any Rover K or T-Series. SUSPENSION: Double wishbone suspension front and back with fabricated hub carriers and coil-over dampers. STEERING: Marlin rack with donor column. BRAKES: Donor ventilated front and solid rear discs (servo assisted optional). KIT PRICE: Module One: Chassis Kit to work towards a rolling chassis includes fuel tank, steering rack, flexible stainless steel brake hose kit, clutch & accelerator kit £2110. Module Two: Suspension Kit includes springs, shock absorbers, polyurethane suspension bushes, ball joints, track rod ends and windscreen to create a rolling chassis £1723.84. Module Three: Body Kit includes all body parts plus all lights with angel headlights, mirrors, chrome bonnet catches, carpets and floor mats £3518. Buy modules one, two and three together and save £375 (all plus VAT). BUDGET BUILD COST: From £8,000. Top of the range build cost to include weather equipment £11,500 (all plus VAT).
Marlin Sports Cars, PO Box 88, Crediton, Devon EX17 3WZ T: 01363 773772 E: sales@marlinsportscars.co.uk W: www.marlinsportscars.co.uk
THE COMPLETE KIT CAR GUIDE 2010
www.completekitcar.co.uk 107