Hi, Firstly, I'll say hello. This is Carl and Daz here. We are going to build a car. Carl is a engineer and Daz is an ex-body sprayer. We dont have any car specific training, but can find our way around a haynes manual. Having had to do welding during my apprentiship a pigeon poo welded car is not an option (I know my limits), so we need to buy a ready made chassis.

There seems a lot of different kits etc, on the market and we have just about decided on a MK Locost. However there is still the Robin Hood Lightweight that looks a good option. If anyone has anything that they think might aid our final decision it would be warmly recieved.

Also, how does the locost chassis and bodywork differ from the mk indy?

Regards
Carl

Welcome to the mad-house!

IMHO, the MK chassis will be a thousand times better quality than the RH one... but the same could be said for Mac1, MNR, Luego, etc.

The big difference with the Indy is that it's set up for Sierra bits, while the Book chassis is for Mk1 or Mk2 Escorts. In most cases the same basic principles apply.

I strongly recommend that you go to the next big kit car show and try them on for size (Suits YOU, Sir, Ooh!). Otherwise, try a tour round the major manufacturers - they'll all give you a test drive (or, at least a ride out on the road).

Happy building!
David

Firstly welcome to the best forum on the net. We are a freindly bunch and always willing to lend a hand. Most advice is in peoples own experience but very valuable all the same.

I agree with David. Go to the shows and see what is available. Talk to the manufacturers and get a feel for the product. If poss talk to builders as well who will be more than willing to give an honest appraisal.

My uncle is building a RH and has been disheartened by the amount of finishing required. Suspension mounts had to be welded on. imho this has compromised the finished product.

Im building a mac1 ZR and am very plaesed with the way it is going together and the level of service from the guys at Mac1 is superb.

I shortlisted MK, MNR and Mac1. The products looked good and they were relatively close to me (or at least to the routes that i travel regularly on).

Have a look in the back of the mags and you will see the same names time and again for sale as unfinished projects. Why is that? I dont know th ereal answer but have my personal theories.

After starting a Mac1 build iam now very biassed and push their kits whenever i get the chance. That is not to say the other two on my shortlist are any less good.

Above all take your time during selection and make them work for your order. A wise decision now will give you many hours building pleasure and a car that you will be immensly proud of.

I couldn't agree with Darren more and there are some really good companies out there.

But, the real choice is in the engine. You need a bike engine not a boat anchor. These are for the older generation.

That should get an interesting response.

Looking at your profile you don't live too far away. My advice would be to go along to MK on a Saturday morning, have a chat with the lads there - theres usually a good number of MK's that turn up to look at, and above all, get yourselves a ride in an Indy.

To give you some idea of how an Indy goes together, have a read of our Build/Rebuild Diary.

And lastly, welcome to the mad house.

quote:

---

But, the real choice is in the engine. You need a bike engine not a boat anchor. These are for the older generation.

---

Mmmmmm V8 anchor

I am very keen on the MK Indy and am going to go to the factory on Sat.

But when I look at the RH Lightweight, it just seems awsome value. Why do many people not speak well about RH?

I dont know the full reason behind RH comments but imho they have been known for making products at the lower end of the budget. They were less than helpful to my uncle when he had some aftersales queries which wasnt so good. I understand that they are now under new ownership so it will be interesting to see if some of the earlier comments and experiences have now been rectified. I was never comfortable with the use of the heavy complete Sierra back end. I have heard of problems with road holding etc as a result. Having said that there are a loyal band of satisfied customers out there that enjoy the cars for what they are - a good fun budget roadster. I guess the finished product depends on the builders skills. Some rival kits dont seem require such a high skill level. I havent looked at the new lightweight and dont have direct experience of RH in general so any comments expressed are from 3rd hand comments etc and not my own. A while ago there wasnt so much choice in the market. To be honest it has been easy for the new kids on the block to build on the RH formula and develop some really nice products.

At the end of the day you have to go with what you feel is right and will suit what you are after. Some people only want a fun weekend road car and most of the kits deliver that. I would seriously look into aftersales assistance and make this a major decider, you cant cost it but will definitely want it.

Westfiels and Caterham dont seem to get a look in on this forum but probably offer the best kits - at a price.




Why not call into Mac#1 after going to Mk. They are only approx 30 mins away - other side of the A1 at Handsworth (very close to Asda - Portland Ind Est). Both companies offer good vehicles at competitive prices.

[Edited on 20/7/05 by DarrenW]

In the past the RH cars have been built to a low price, with the quality to match. Some of their engineering decisions have been open for debate, as well.

Maybe the new owners have set higher standards - certainly their prices have risen since they took over.

If you're going to compare kits, then by all means have a look at the Robin Hood, but have a GOOD look. Examine fit, finish, quality of the GRP bits, and so on.

Darren - I have a very high regard for Westfield, who give you a comprehensive kit that's easy to complete in a short time (and the price isn't TOO bad), but have less respect for Caterham. They make a very good car, but it's over-priced and poor value when compared to others.

IMHO, of course!

rgds,
David



[Edited on 20/7/05 by David Jenkins]

I don't speak well of Robinhoods because i used to own one, i will agree that the lightweight is a nice looking kit but i have serious reservations about its structural integritty.
An "ex-body sprayer" you say, is there much demand for spraying ex-bodies?