Hi all.
I'm new here, came across this site while looking for info on the 'book' chassis. I've built a couple of locost chassis before but for other people and always wanted to do my own so here I am!

Since I've last done anything (years) there have been loads of changes and I'm a bit lost. I've noticed the mx5 is being used more and wanted to know what everyone thought of it as a donor and if there is a better option?

Let me know guys, I'm looking to start building in a few weeks so will soon need to start buying parts!

What ever you choose to build, don't forget to factor in the money-grabbing hassle that is the IVA! I'm guessing it's only going to get worse with the closure of local DVLAs too.

Might be worth looking at a re-build of an already registered car rather than a clean build?

Just a thought Good luck with whatever you choose though, and keep us posted

If I was to start from scratch - which was very nearly the case - I'd use an MX-5 donor. Sierras are getting harder to come by, and the Mx-5 is a relatively well trodden route. The only problem is that the engines tend to be a bit poo - at least I'm not a fan

[Edited on 30/9/13 by Badger_McLetcher]

I'm biased, but I'd recommend the MX5. It's not too difficult to go from a Sierra donor to the MX5, with only minor variations mainly to host the larger gearbox and the uprights. But conversely you do end up using a lot more of the MX5 donor which keeps costs down.

I got my donor for £440, a 92 1.6 in fair condition (but with quite bad rust). The most trouble I have had so far is the rear wishbones and uprights, they are currently so badly corroded that they could be considered one piece of metal!

The engines are possibly a bit weedy compared to some of the engines I've seen on here, but in my case that works in my favour as it's my first rear wheel drive car. But there is plenty of scope for upgrades, with a supercharger being on my list once I've learned how to keep the car pointing forwards...