Hi all,
Thinking ahead to the next project after the 7, and I want to go my own way with design (Studying motorsport engineering) and I'm considering something different, so just wondered, has anyone built a stock car? Proper NASCAR style, Shouldn't be too much trouble, and should be great with a nice big V8. Anyone think of any problems you would encounter?? my main thought was windscreen availability. Other factors for consideration would be appreciated.
Cheers
Matt

windscreens sourced in the US would be cheaper than here . what model would you want to base it on .

for example base it on a mondeo windscreen , youve then got them funny mondeo looking things to base it on .

I'm looking at the late 80's style, quite boxy, like the chevrolet lumina. Doesnt have to be the same size, a mondeo like you say would be a good size . . I'll try and post a picture of one, so other people know what I'm on about
Small photo but in my archive, its the numbered pic. Let me know what you think

[Edited on 19/11/06 by MattCraneCustoms]

That'll be this one then

Stock Car

Stock cars are supposed to be silhouettes of real cars aren't they? so the original car would be the windscreen donor. Importing one from the states might be a tad expensive though. Maybe find a style of car from Europe you like. Hmm boxy late 80's... what about an Audi 80?

lol still not mastered the photo bit . .cheers. yes they are meant to be like the road car, but in reality they are nothing like. I think the windscreen would be completely different. Im just trying to consider factors like that. Other thing is if done properly, I'd just have to daylight SVA i guess, as It wouldnt have any lights. My other main question is, would it have to have a door, or can I climb through the window "Hazzard" style? Also wouldnt mind some nice sounding big V8 recommendations!!
Cheers
Matt

Don't think there's much point to a daylight SVA personally, remember you can't drive in the wet either.

Can't think of any particular law that outlaws hazzard style entry, though if you are pie-challenged it's going to get embarassing at some point

On the subject of v8 - LS7 550bhp, 475 lb.-ft and 26mpg.
http://www.lspower.co.uk/ls7.html see the video for it's aural qualities. Well you didn't mention a budget (they are £12.5k new)

yeah that engine would be great . . though I do have a budget. Are there any similar engines, on a budget? Iirc fordcrateengines.com do some nice ones for about 6000$ but then you have import tax and what not. Like you say Im best to go donor route, ill have a scout for old chevy's in this country I think. Like you say no point in daylight SVA, and you still need brake lights anyway. Definately not wide so hazzard entry is a go lol.

There are some psuedo NASCAR-style cars that race on dirt tracks in southeastern and midwest US. I think they race here in TX as well. The demographics for this type of sport seem to be on the poorer side, hence whole cars go for sale cheaply (gotta pay for that new hunting dog!).

Though posting would be expensive, I bet you can get a whole car for the $1800 range. I've researched importing a Phoenix, and the cost is around $1000. So you get a whole car that needs a lot of body work for $2800.

I have to say though, it's not my bag.

--Chris

Here you go.

More here: http://www.racingjunk.com/

There are also smaller scale "stock car" bodys out there. Maybe stuff one on a Locost chassis?
Bear in mind that nascar et al weigh in at around 3800lbs I think.

it doesnt have to be religiously like a stock car, but I'd like to have a go at making a tin top, with a nice fat V8 in it, and as far as I've found a stock car hasnt been done before . . .

bloody hell only just read you are in Leicestershire. I am into most things odd and with engines and wheels. Whereabouts are you in relation to mallory park track? I am just up the road from there.

We'll have to meet up for a chitchat on this one as I have built a couple of spaceframed saloons, and the current "next project" is spaceframing a Fiat 126 and fitting 2 bike engines, I have 2 fiat 126's stripped now on the drive waiting!

Your best bet would be to (assuming you want it to be road legal) base it on something uk built and road based? I would suggest something like an opel manta or capri (as I have a soft spot for them!) with only the outer shell retained.

I have done a manta before, and I know of a chap doing one now with an LS1 engine in it, dry sumped and injected, the full lot, pretty serious project, with de-dion rear end, double wishbone front and manta 400 wide arch body.

[Edited on 24/11/06 by NS Dev]