Summer's in full swing, and the ultimate, old-fashioned outdoor picnic just can't be driven to in finer style than Findhorn Cars true-to-tradition TC 2 Seater Sports Car. Based on the wildly popular MGB sports car of the 1940's and 50's, this car delivers all the pure pleasure of performance driving in a simpler, more innocent time. And Findhorn's expert application of modern technology ensures a carefree driving experience to outdoor events of all kinds, where the original vehicle made its impact both in the UK and the United States.
The Hampshire, England Findhorn company is dedicated to the production of unique, handmade "British Sportscars in the Original Vein." Director Nigel Brooks is himself a big fan of the unique feeling of unfettered fun in classic MGB driving, so he acquired the rights to preserve it in the affordable NG TC 2 Seater kit car, which can be built by any enthusiastic do-it-yourself mechanic.
Buy One or Build One
A completed NG TC car or one built to any stage for finishing in your garage can be purchased from Findhorn. And, starting with as little as an engine and a gearbox, a total at-home build can be accomplished with their array of NG TC kit packs.
Findhorn says almost any engine within reason can work well, and they provide instructions on using a variety of engines for the distinctive, boxy-style classic kit car. Their build specifications are partial to a couple of motor choices: one is a supercharged MG B-series 1800. The super-charger is available as a bolt on kit; however, for typical USA 8:1 compression ratio engines, a prior rebuild may help performance by giving a boost with a faster pulley. Their general favorite recommended engine is a 3.9 Efi Range Rover V8; despite requiring a bit more wiring, Findhorn build guides say that, overall, it is the easiest engine to install, and should turn and go, go, go!
For the UK, Findhorn build specifications followed for the Findhorn NG TC will allow it to easily pass the SVA (Single Vehicle Approval) regulations. For cars built in the USA, the chosen engines in particular will need to fall within guidelines that vary from state to state. For the US, a LHD option is available for finished purchase or home build using a conversion kit Ford Type 9 gearbox. From chassis to body work and fittings, and then on to painting, electrics, weather gear, and final trim should take a reasonably handy home auto mechanic about 400 hours of dedicated work to get their own lively NG TC sports car ready to fire up.
Once your NG TC is done, with your sporty dash, your windshield, two comfortable seats in place, and body gleaming in your favorite color, it's time to pack up a picnic basket, grab a friend, and roar off to a scenic spot where you may spend more time answering questions about your jaunty, delightful car than eating your lunch. But--fair warning--building your NG TC sportscar may be addictive. Findhorn says they have a contingent of repeat customers who no sooner complete their first TC, and here they are, ordering another. This little car is just too much fun!
