After reading about the terrible handling characteristics with the V8 over the front wheels, and pricing out custom subframes, etc. to rectify the situation, I decided to explore other routes...

Long story short, I did all the minor bodywork, eliminated the front and rear bumper brackets/holes/etc., welded up an integrated smooth rear roll pan and front fascia, leaving only the frame horns and small openings for Cobra-style tow bumperettes... the car cleaned up beautifully and has very elegant lines; for those unfamiliar with the model, the '62 has the big rear fins like a mini-'57 Chevy... cool design IMO.

What I landed on for motivation allows me to retain the stock front suspension in large part, upgrading individual components at will as opposed to having to start from scratch, or compromise.

I bought a Honda S2000 2-liter four cylinder engine and associated 6-speed manual trans for it. This is an early model that redlines at 8,900 rpm(!), sounds like a Ferrari, and delivers 240HP in stock form. Light, small, powerful, cool-running, etc. I'll chip it, upgrade the exhaust, etc. and should be able to squeeze an honest 300HP or more easily. This is in a car that will come in well under 2000 pounds wet with a driver. It should be an absolute rocket, and a blast to drive. Big-block Cobra-like performance in a more compact package.

Anyhow, I'll post some pictures as I move through the build. Since it's been so slow here, I figured I'd put something up.

Bro' FF

You should consider to add a Turbocharger from the aftermarket and it will go like a rocket !

Keep us informed on this project.
Robert

http://www.cybergate-corp.ch/mako_clip/