SPECIAL PROJECTS
The spyder-designed rolling chassis for the APPENINE CAR COMPANY'S
sensational Straight Eight 3.9 litre Alpha Romeo sports car replica.
A magnificent straight eight engine created by Weslake Developments and producing in excess of 250bhp, the beautiful lines of the 1938 Touring of Milan alloy bodyshell reproduced by P.H Metalcraft and a custom- designed Spyder chassis to accept the Alpha components: these are the essential ingredients of a memorable machine. Controlling this car with around 250ft/lbs of torque transmitting through two 19" crossply tyres on 3.250" rims in a nicely balanced chassis is a truly unforgettable experience.
A KIND OF MAGIC
Making every second count...track testing Stephen Muir's unique straight eight Appenine Three Nine.
One of the last and probably most satisfying steps in the design and development program of a prototype is carrying out the shakedown tests. However, disappointment is sure to follow if proper design and development procedures are not strictly adhered to. It's absolutely vital to fully assess the 'big picture' before work on any new project begins - if not, it will wander through a series of compromises and ultimately fall short of the mark. The finished vehicle should be capable of getting as much of its available power onto the road as possible and have excellent road holding, handling and ride comfort qualities. Should also have even weight distribution, be ergonomically good and east to work on - it's not much much fun if the motor has to be removed in order to replace the oil filter.
The corner weights of the above car are as follows:
| 1) | LEFT FRONT | 575.9 LBS | 2) | RIGHT FRONT | 581.2 LBS |
| 3) | RIGHT REAR | 550.0 LBS | 4) | RIGHT REAR | 534.1 LBS |
With fuel and driver aboard it was simple to achieve perfect and even weight distribution on each contact patch - an essential ingredient if the car is to produce that special kind of magic each time it's driven.