High-tech low-cost Mexican Sportscar

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August 5, 2008 One of the most interesting debuts at the British Motor Show was the Mastretta MXT, the first car to be designed and built in Mexico, and it promises to make it’s home country very proud indeed. The mid-engined, two-seater coupe uses aircraft construction techniques to create an ultra-lightweight 900kg car with bonded aluminum semi-monocoque chassis, a balanced 56-44 weight distribution with a turbocharged 240 bhp Cosworth engine supplying the herbs. The end result is a 150mph car with a power-to-weight ratio of 267bhp/tonne. The best bit though, is the price - UKP33,000 (US$64,500).

With an ideal weight bias and just 900 kilograms to push, stop and turn, we’re expecting great acceleration, great braking and great handling as standard. Though the first model will run on gasoline, a CNG-burning variant is currently in development.

Named after its designer Daniel Mastretta, the car is purposefully reminiscent of classic Can-Am racing cars. Its muscular shape - a wide body with narrow but roomy cockpit, high front wings and low nose - are integrated into a fun, user-friendly package. “Unlike some MXT competitors, it’s easy to get in and out of this car,” Mastretta says.

“Initial drawings of the car were like slashes on the page and these lines are integrated into the design of the car you see here today,” Mastretta says. “I was trying to evoke emotion with the MXT. It has a dynamic tension that I believe drivers will love.

“We have a passion for design in transportation which goes back for 20 years and that is fundamental to this car. It looks fantastic, but there is function there too. Great aerodynamics and low weight combine to maximise performance and handling and the low nose and high wings which enclose the wheels allow the driver to place the car very precisely on the road or track.”

Functional scoops and vents front and rear are either air intakes or to cool the engine bay, while effective aerodynamics provide great stability on road or track.

The MXT interior provides a direct sports car feel but is warm, modern and surprisingly spacious. It offers good visibility and well thought out ergonomics, which are essential for comfort and performance.

The level of the care and consideration shown to the environment in this car’s design is ably demonstrated by looking at how the MXT is constructed -- in modules. This not only cuts the time and money involved in the construction process, but will reduce the cost of repairs and of waste materials in the garage.

This unique, rear wheel drive two-seater’s 2.0litre turbocharged Duratec engine is a collaboration with Cosworth and develops nearly 240bhp pushing the MXT to 60 mph from rest in less than 5.0secs. Direct racecar feel comes through rack and pinion steering – just 2.8 turns lock to lock. And 293mm ventilated brake discs with ABS as standard, slow the car with eye-popping power, when necessary. The MXT has double wishbone suspension all-round with an anti-roll bar at the front.

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