Saturn Roadster:CKC Guide 2009
12/10/10
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Saturn Roadster
SATURN SPORTS CARS is run by Andy Hugill, who first got into the world of self built cars by building a Haynes Roadster from scratch according to the popular book. However, he saw a market for those who like the idea of building a Haynes Roadster but don’t fancy welding the chassis together themselves. As a result, Saturn Sports Cars offers a whole range of parts to Roadster builders, from a basic chassis, to body panels to a comprehensive kit. There is even the option of a fully built, turnkey car. It brings the Roadster into the realms of being a conventional kit car and makes it a lot more accessible. Andy’s own hands-on experience of building his car means he can offer comprehensive after-sales advice and guidance to his customers. The company is also in the process of adding a second model to its line-up. The Roadster RW460 will be visually similar to the existing car, but will use a rotary engine from the Mazda RX-8. The name stands for Rotary Wankel 460bhp per tonne, which in itself gives some indication of this car’s performance potential! As well as the engine and 5-speed gearbox, it will use the Mazda’s propshaft, driveshafts, LSD and part of the exhaust. With smooth power up to its 9500rpm redline, the engine offers the excitement of a bike engine with the cruising ability of a car engine. Initially offered only in turnkey form, a self-build version may follow.
SPECIFICATION CHASSIS: Tubular steel spaceframe. BODYWORK: GRP bodywork supplied in gelcoat finish. DONOR CAR: Ford Sierra or Mazda RX-8 for RW460 model. ENGINE OPTIONS: Ford Pinto as standard, although many four-cylinder engines can be fitted. RW460 model uses Mazda RX-8 rotary engine. SUSPENSION: Front – Double wishbones, coil-over dampers. Rear – Double wishbones, coil-over dampers. STEERING: Rack and pinion. BRAKES: Discs front, option of discs or drums at the rear. KIT PRICE: Turnkey car price £9500 (1.8 CVH engine) to £19,500 (240bhp Rotary Wankel). Special offer rolling chassis kit £1250 (assembled chassis). £990 precut chassis. BUDGET BUILD COST: From £4000.
SUMMARY – Production kit version of the Haynes Roadster gives the option of an easy assembly, while forthcoming rotary powered RW460 will take the firm upmarket.
Recycling a Ford Sierra or Mazda RX-8
Saturn Sports Cars, 27b Park View Industrial Estate, Hartlepool, County Durham TS25 1PD T: 01429 864377 E: info@saturnsportscars.co.uk W: www.saturnsportscars.co.uk
THE COMPLETE KIT CAR GUIDE 2011
www.completekitcar.co.uk
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