Atom To Ultima - Intro & Request To Meet Local PH'er
Discussion
Morning! I’ve been lurking on the Ultima forum for a while now, planning my next automotive move. My current toy is an Ariel Atom 3, which I’ve owned from new for the last 2yrs, but I’m now at a crossroads. Finding cars that deliver the same performance & handling is a little tricky, especially on a sensible budget. I’ve been a long time fan of the Ultima and am considering scratching the itch…. Either that or buying another Atom in a slightly different spec.
I’ve read about half a dozen build diaries that I’ve picked up on the ‘net and have spoken tentatively to the factory. I’m planning to visit the factory soon, but would actually like the opportunity to speak to a local Can Am owner (I’m in Redditch) and possibly meet up for a chin-wag…. I’ll bring the Atom for some fun comparisons, if that helps
At the moment, I’m unsure whether to build or buy used. 5yrs ago I built a Chesil 356 Speedster, that thanks to my perfectionist streak was a chromed out show queen. I appreciate that the 2 are a very different proposition, before anyone points out the obvious, but I get a lot of enjoyment from such projects, so I’m considering a build. Also, as there’s very few cars for sale 2nd hand, that avenue is potentially limited.
I’m looking at a Can Am (weekend toy has to be top-less) and have been drawing up my ideal spec. Generally I’d be sticking to Ultima spec, but I will have to do something about the interior. It’s one area that’s always stopped me from taking the car seriously and belies it’s kit-car origins. I like the stainless / chrome push buttons that have been used in the £75K GTR currently for sale on here, so I’d like to look into how viable those are to fit… along with a Stack dash 
Anyway, I’ll leave the questions for now and instead just ask if there’s anyone with a Can Am local to Redditch that’d like to meet up one day and talk “shop”?
Thanks,
Mark
I’ve read about half a dozen build diaries that I’ve picked up on the ‘net and have spoken tentatively to the factory. I’m planning to visit the factory soon, but would actually like the opportunity to speak to a local Can Am owner (I’m in Redditch) and possibly meet up for a chin-wag…. I’ll bring the Atom for some fun comparisons, if that helps
At the moment, I’m unsure whether to build or buy used. 5yrs ago I built a Chesil 356 Speedster, that thanks to my perfectionist streak was a chromed out show queen. I appreciate that the 2 are a very different proposition, before anyone points out the obvious, but I get a lot of enjoyment from such projects, so I’m considering a build. Also, as there’s very few cars for sale 2nd hand, that avenue is potentially limited.
I’m looking at a Can Am (weekend toy has to be top-less) and have been drawing up my ideal spec. Generally I’d be sticking to Ultima spec, but I will have to do something about the interior. It’s one area that’s always stopped me from taking the car seriously and belies it’s kit-car origins. I like the stainless / chrome push buttons that have been used in the £75K GTR currently for sale on here, so I’d like to look into how viable those are to fit… along with a Stack dash 
Anyway, I’ll leave the questions for now and instead just ask if there’s anyone with a Can Am local to Redditch that’d like to meet up one day and talk “shop”?
Thanks,
Mark
on this one
Is no one happy to talk to a prospective new owner?crafty said:
Dont take it personally..... nobody talks to prospective Canam guys over here.
How rude!!! ha ha. Canams Rock 
Welcome Mark, I dont live any where near you but if your ever up north both me n chewy would be more than happy to talk Ultimas. Highly recommend the factory visit, Richard, Ted and the guys have a canny way of selling Ultimas.Welcome
John
Ah-ha! Thanks chaps, I was begining to think no one wanted to talk shop! I did consider the GTR, but I really like having an open car for the weekend. The idea of an aeroscreen'd Can Am really appeals... especially as it'll enhance the V8 sound too I'm planning on LS power, so I'll not get the typical carb noises, but it feels like a more modern solution to me.
I'd be interested to hear the thoughts of the group on "must-have" spec options (e.g std suspension vs adjustable), before I got to the factory.
Thanks.
I'm planning on LS power, so I'll not get the typical carb noises, but it feels like a more modern solution to me.I'd be interested to hear the thoughts of the group on "must-have" spec options (e.g std suspension vs adjustable), before I got to the factory.
Thanks.
356Speedster said:
Ah-ha! Thanks chaps, I was begining to think no one wanted to talk shop! I did consider the GTR, but I really like having an open car for the weekend. The idea of an aeroscreen'd Can Am really appeals... especially as it'll enhance the V8 sound too I'm planning on LS power, so I'll not get the typical carb noises, but it feels like a more modern solution to me.
I'd be interested to hear the thoughts of the group on "must-have" spec options (e.g std suspension vs adjustable), before I got to the factory.
Thanks.
So you have decided to do it then........ I'm planning on LS power, so I'll not get the typical carb noises, but it feels like a more modern solution to me.I'd be interested to hear the thoughts of the group on "must-have" spec options (e.g std suspension vs adjustable), before I got to the factory.
Thanks.
Looks my days of having the most antisocial V8 are numbered....
Welcome Mark, like J-K I'm nowhere near you either, the opposite direction to J-K in Essex, I have a LS3/Getrag CanAm going back on the road next month. I'm not sure if there are any CanAm's in your area, I know of a few north of you though.
As far as spec goes, I would go high end factory supplied stages but you might want to 'personalise' the interior, wheels, fuel system. As far as engine, I have just changed over to an LS3 and for me it was worth the hassle and expense, it's running standard power around 420 (which is plenty for me). Not sure I would want to go far with just the aero screen though, as heat from the radiator (I believe) hits you in the face but as I have never driven one with the aero screen I stand to be corrected.
Get a factory ride and then get to Stoneleigh and chat to a few of us to get the builder/owner perspective.
Graham
As far as spec goes, I would go high end factory supplied stages but you might want to 'personalise' the interior, wheels, fuel system. As far as engine, I have just changed over to an LS3 and for me it was worth the hassle and expense, it's running standard power around 420 (which is plenty for me). Not sure I would want to go far with just the aero screen though, as heat from the radiator (I believe) hits you in the face but as I have never driven one with the aero screen I stand to be corrected.
Get a factory ride and then get to Stoneleigh and chat to a few of us to get the builder/owner perspective.
Graham
Ben - Yep, as you know I've had the rude V8 hankering for a while, now it's time to act on it.
Graham - Thanks for your comments. I'm surprised that there's not that many Can Ams around, given the UK's love of all things roof-less. I'm also surprised how few cars there seem to be around. I thought the Atom was rare, but it seems Hinkley's finest is an even rarer beast.
Interesting comments on the aeroscreen heat issue, I'd not considered radiator warming! As I wasn't planning on fitting the full windscreen, I was going to omit A/C and save some weight, wil have to look into that a little closer.
I'm undecided on final engine spec / power output, but I need to keep performance close to Atom territory. I used to be a Stoneleigh regular, but I've not been along for the last 2yrs. It's only 20'ish miles down the road, so I will mark it in the diary for this yr.
Graham - Thanks for your comments. I'm surprised that there's not that many Can Ams around, given the UK's love of all things roof-less. I'm also surprised how few cars there seem to be around. I thought the Atom was rare, but it seems Hinkley's finest is an even rarer beast.
Interesting comments on the aeroscreen heat issue, I'd not considered radiator warming! As I wasn't planning on fitting the full windscreen, I was going to omit A/C and save some weight, wil have to look into that a little closer.
I'm undecided on final engine spec / power output, but I need to keep performance close to Atom territory. I used to be a Stoneleigh regular, but I've not been along for the last 2yrs. It's only 20'ish miles down the road, so I will mark it in the diary for this yr.
356Speedster said:
Anyway, I’ll leave the questions for now and instead just ask if there’s anyone with a Can Am local to Redditch that’d like to meet up one day and talk “shop”?
Thanks,
Mark
Hey Mark,Thanks,
Mark
I work in Evesham, but live halfway between that and Cheltenham - you are welcome to ring me for a chat since I am the Boss, and even come and see where I am with my build. Not finished yet I am afraid, but engine runs - Oh and not a Can-am of that makes any difference - its a GTR!
You can PM me and I will respond with my number.
Good luck!
Keith
356Speedster said:
Graham - Thanks for your comments. I'm surprised that there's not that many Can Ams around, given the UK's love of all things roof-less. I'm also surprised how few cars there seem to be around. I thought the Atom was rare, but it seems Hinkley's finest is an even rarer beast.
Interesting comments on the aeroscreen heat issue, I'd not considered radiator warming! As I wasn't planning on fitting the full windscreen, I was going to omit A/C and save some weight, wil have to look into that a little closer.
As I say I haven't driven one with an aeroscreen but have heard comments about heat from the radiator hitting you in the face. Another point is resale, if you don't keep your cars for long and want a quick turn around then going 'off piste' may hamper what you might expect for it. I'm thinking mainly about fitting aircon (you do need it, trust me) and a full screen, interior should be ok providing you don't go over the top and fit OEM type stuff. If you want Atom performance then I guess an LS7 would be nearer the mark with a good G50 box. Speak to Kyle about this he should be able to point you in the right direction.Interesting comments on the aeroscreen heat issue, I'd not considered radiator warming! As I wasn't planning on fitting the full windscreen, I was going to omit A/C and save some weight, wil have to look into that a little closer.
Graham
It's good to know I can count on the support of my mates, when it comes to spending cash on a noisy fast car, LOL!
I am a little surprised about the AC comments, given the openess of the Can Am. I presume that there's issues with heat soak front (radiator) & rear (engine). Another item to add to the list, then is some good heatproofing!
I am a little surprised about the AC comments, given the openess of the Can Am. I presume that there's issues with heat soak front (radiator) & rear (engine). Another item to add to the list, then is some good heatproofing!
356Speedster said:
I am a little surprised about the AC comments, given the openess of the Can Am. I presume that there's issues with heat soak front (radiator) & rear (engine). Another item to add to the list then is some good heatproofing!
In a word............yes..........The cockpit sides needs to be protected from the pipes from the radiator to the engine as these run along each side of the cockpit between the luggage containers. I have disconnected the heater and looped the hoses back into the engine. You will get heat coming from under the dashboard as the chassis is open under there and low pressure over the cockpit will suck air from the cockpit, that's replaced by dragging air from under the dash. You need to seal any gaps at the rear of the luggage containers as again (hot) air will be sucked from the engine bay into the cockpit. All this might seem to be negative , it's not meant to be as I really like my car and wouldn't sell it, heat is an issue and I have tried to address it as best I can. Some people can live with it but I can't, I do not like getting out of the car after an hours drive looking like I've taken a bath in it.
Graham
SimonMaidenhead said:
Not exactly local, but if you fancy a trip to sunny Berkshire then you're more than welcome to look at mine and I'm sure Crazy would be willing to give you a comparison. Both Can-Am, mine aero screen with no air con, his full screen with recent air con fitted.
Cheers Simon. If I'm down that way, I'll let you know in advance In the meantime, I'd be intreagued to hear your thoughts on aero / no A/C, especially as your view is different to others How do get on without it? Have you done some heat management?356Speedster said:
Cheers Simon. If I'm down that way, I'll let you know in advance In the meantime, I'd be intreagued to hear your thoughts on aero / no A/C, especially as your view is different to others How do get on without it? Have you done some heat management?
Only from my own experience, but these cars are meant to be driven one way In the meantime, I'd be intreagued to hear your thoughts on aero / no A/C, especially as your view is different to others How do get on without it? Have you done some heat management? and if driven as such I find an aero screen perfectly adequate without the need for any extra ventilation. Does an Atom need aircon?SimonMaidenhead said:
Only from my own experience, but these cars are meant to be driven one way and if driven as such I find an aero screen perfectly adequate without the need for any extra ventilation. Does an Atom need aircon?
Ha, ha! I like your thinking, squire! Thanks for your feedback, I'll bear it in mind when I get to have a run in a Can Am, it'll certainly be interesting to see what the heat soak is like. and if driven as such I find an aero screen perfectly adequate without the need for any extra ventilation. Does an Atom need aircon?Gassing Station | Ultima | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff