Project Build - Elise GT: Honda Swap / Widebody Conversion

[andyc]

Looks great. Once you get it on track get a video done so I can steal it for my iPetrolhead Facebook page

[MacLotus]

Looks great. Once you get it on track get a video done so I can steal it for my iPetrolhead Facebook page

[r10crw]

Being honest I really didnt like the mock ups but looks not too bad now, well done you must be really pleased. Still need to lose the rear spoiler for me though...

[MacLotus]

I agree. Only use the wing on track days... which is why I engineered it to pop off in minutes. Looks awesome without it too!

[j2 lot]

Yup loose the wing, otherwise

[MacLotus]

Yup loose the wing, otherwise

Got to keep in mind this is a 'track only' car on American tracks with long high-speed sweepers, so a wing is essential. S1's are not allowed on the street here, so esthetics are secondary priority (but not unimportant). After all, we want it to look cool too.

Adding nearly a foot of width to the rear body made my EP sport wing look like a little toy, plus it didn't tie to the chassis. This does, and its removable without big holes in the clam left behind.

[cla5h]

Was thinking the same about the wing, but if that comes off then no worries. Looks good - obviously an Elise but also very different.

Edit: just read the last post, that it's track only use anyway.

[MacLotus]

It's funny regarding American tastes vs. European tastes. In the American forums, all I hear is "LOVE the wing!". Personally, I like it both ways (no smart arse comments please), but I especially like the stability of a wing at 130mph. Incredibly planted!

[Ferg]

Looks brilliant. To break from the 'euro' trend, I can appreciate it both ways too. The colour choice is awsome too, let the curves catch the eye, not the paint. Hats off to you sir for acheiving your goal.

[MacLotus]

Thanks Ferg! I love the color too! I never saw a yellow Ferrari I didn't like, so it seemed a good choice.

[Dominic]

Looks like a very good finish! I think it needs a rear spoiler, but I'm not so keen on the aesthetics of the spoiler mounts. Otherwise, IMHO, top job! I like the finish to the dash board too - looks classy (or at least classier than a standard S1 interior).

[campbell]

A courageous and tremendous effort, Mac. The results of all the hand-laid sculpting are incredible.

Video please

[MacLotus]

Thank you gentlemen. I do plan to shoot and edit a video this summer. Can't wait to share!

[MacLotus]

Well, I finally had the opportunity yesterday to drive the car on the track. While esthetics have been a major focus throughout this widebody build, the purpose was to improve performance through significantly wider, lower profile Hoosier R6 tires as well as aerodynamic improvement. I truly had quite a bit of anxiety not really knowing what to expect from the extent of the changes I made.

I started off very slow, breaking in the new tires (DOT Slicks) and listening careful for any sounds of rubbing tire on new fiberglass. I was also getting use to the track as it was just resurfaced and widened from '30 to '40 ft over the winter... so pristine perfect race surface.

After 2-3 laps, I could sense the car was more stable and responsive than I've ever felt. The test was a long right hand sweeper (scariest on the track) with absolutely no bank. Flat as a pancake. The most I ever took that turn was 100mph. Yesterday, I easily took it at 120mph and it felt like I could easily take it at 140-150mph. That stable and planted. UNBELIEVABLE performance increase. 100% improvement. I went through some of the twistier turns a little slower but going deep and really pulling a sharp turn to see if it would break loose under heavy acceleration on track out. No slip whatsoever. Stick as sticky can be. I can't begin to express how happy I am with this car. I'm broke... but very happy!!

Lastly, I tested the new auto-throttle blip system (prototype that eliminates the need for heel/toe) and while it needs a little fine tuning adjustment, it worked fantastic! Very pleased with that little item.

Lastly, I finished the headlamp assemblies/covers and soon will have the carbon fiber airfoil/LED lights/turn indicators in the lower vents. A carbon fiber stone guard completes the look while providing a little protection. I also completely wrapped the front end in 3M clear bra to protect the paint.

[Ferg]

Looking good. Would love to see some video of it on track.