I couldn't agree more about TD replica's built ontop of VW beetles. Don't
waste your time - the original beetle was probably a much better vehicle and
the GRP could have made a nice sailing dingy!
However, in the UK, there is one company, NG cars, who produce some rather
nice kits which have a close resemblance to a TD. They use a chassis designed
by NG, and running gear from a wide range of cars, originally MG B's and more
recently Ford Sierra's (I think the XR4i made it to the states). The "B"
based models were quite a close replica, the newer Ford based ones are wider,
giving more interior space.
Not cheap to build (I'd guess 7K to 15K UK pounds depending on your spec,
plus >400 hours of time), nor does it produce a dead scale replica. Think of
it as a well designed car, with a close resemblance to the style. The
advantages are more modern mechanical components, better ride qualities,
steering and performance. Also, you don't feel constrained to keep it
original and can modify to your hearts content.
I owned a Marlin roadster (similar style, but looks a little like a 1930
Alfa) for six years. When I bought it, I almost tossed a coin between it and
the NG.
Driving them gives a very "direct" feel, most of the bumps come through to
the passenger and driver. But the control is there, they go around corners
very quickly and under complete control.
I'm afraid I've gone soft - I've done my bit of freezing cold self
maintenance, sold the Marlin and bought a new MG-F. The F is the first car
I've owned where the owner's manual doesn't tell you how to get into the
engine bay (there is a grill to stop the inquisitive) !
- Nigel.
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