Lot 018: 2001 Strathcarron SC-5A Road/Track Car

In many ways a twenty-first century version of the Lotus 7, the Strathcarron SC-5A deserved to succeed. Previewed at the 1999 Geneva Salon, its design and construction involved some of the most respected names in motorsport. Commissioned from Reynard and built by an aerospace specialist, the two-seater's aluminium honeycomb tub played host to Prodrive developed suspension (incorporating Bilstein springs / shock absorbers), AP Racing brakes and OZ wheels. Based on a Triumph motorcycle unit, its high-revving 1200cc engine was built-up / reconfigured by Ilmor so as to lower emissions. Credited with developing some 140bhp @ 9,800rpm, the four-pot was mated to a Quaife six-speed sequential gearbox (while, Hewland consulted on the final drive system). Suitably lightweight, the Strathcarron's dramatically sculpted bodywork incorporated a splitter up front and both a diffuser and spoiler to the rear. Tipping the scales at just over 500kgs, the SC-5A allied startling performance to phenomenal roadholding. Yet for all the expertise that had gone into the project, it was effectively stillborn by various changes made to the contemporary Single Vehicle Approval legislation. Finished in red with black upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good overall" condition. Reputedly "the Strathcarron Press Car and one of only a handful built before closure", 'Y523 FBD' is understood to have covered just 1,100 miles from new.