Gents,
This business of "replicars" is not to be taken lightly. It might be just what the doctor ordered (well, not Dr. Benz), and it would interesting to find out if the Brazilian company still exists and if the US kit car makers have an interest.
We all love the lines and beauty of our cars, but if you go through all the posts one could surmise that collectively, we really don't like them too much. HERESY you say? Well, look:
Here is a generalized list of complaints we seem to have:
No overdrive transmission
Shift points all wrong on automatic
Ratios wrong on standard
Rear axle ratios allow too high RPM's
Many parts too expensive or NLA
Lack of some safety items (proper seat belts for one) for those who want a daily driver
Complex fuel injection system; expensive to repair.
Abysmal fuel economy (15-16 MPG on Premium? For an underpowered 2 seater?[:0])
Various complexities that create a service dilemma for those that don't or can't do all the work themselves.
Brake diving
Not enough power
Brakes inadequate
Too easy to rust
Only acceptable handling versus exceptional; touring performance in what many see as a sports car package
Recirc ball steering at a time when others were rack and pinion
Bus sized steering wheel
"Tricky" swing-axle rear suspension
Chassis tuning difficult; camber not adjustable without spring pads.
REPLICARS solve many of these issues. Think you've seen an AC Cobra 427 recently? Probably not; a real one is a rare vehicle indeed, only 306 were known to be built. There are far more replicas of the AC Cobras (and most of them better cars and far less costly)out there then real ones--most with the engine of the owner's choice. Wouldn't it be great if we could have something like this with a 113 body?
As for Mercedes remaking the 113, probably won't happen. There are too many new challenges that a real auto manufacturer has to go through to certify every part. Just look at the new Mini Cooper versus the old. Oh yes, you can see the resemblance but it isn't the same car at all. Replicar manufacturers don't have these challenges as it is generally a kit and they are not subject to the same rules.
Anyone ready to step up and buy a Phoenix kit car?
Michael Salemi
1969 280SL
Signal Red w/Black Leather
Restored
