Friday 18th June 2004

F5000 Twin Seater

Ever felt 700bhp in a single seater?

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Formula 5000 isn't a well known form of motorsport. The powerful open wheeled cars were first race in gBritain in 1968 and comprised of cars running Cooper chassis and either 5 litre Chevrolet V8s or 4.7 litre Ford V8s.

Later, Rover V8s, Oldsmobile V8s and a Cosworth V6 were all used and by 1976 over forty manufacturers had taken part in worldwide. Power outputs of up to 500bhp were typical.

The team at RaceCarRides have been competing in, winning in, and promoting Historic racing for over ten years, specialising in Formula 5000 and they've now built a twin-seater to allow people to experience what it is like to be in a professionally-driven powerful racecar.

The Shrigley-Feigl Collins (SFC) Twin-Seater is a new car, but based on an original 1971 Lola T192 F5000.  The car has been constructed using modern aerospace materials but as it would have been in the 1970s,  but to comply with current FIA Historic safety requirements. The Twin-Seater is only 12" longer than the original, but considerably more powerful with 700bhp! That equates to 0-100mph in 3 seconds!

Unlike some of the other F1 style two seaters the passenger in the SFC sits slightly higher than the driver, allowing them to get a full view of the track, not just a face full of helmet!

The team behind the project have run the car at a number of track days and events around Europe and are now looking to team up with a track day provider or track day experience company to offer rides at other events.

Interested parties should contact Nick at www.racecarrides.com

Videos of the experience are also available here .

[simonrockman]

I went in the Arrows F1, one of these (Driven by Mark Webber). I pressed the "wimp out" button. At the time I thought I wasn't scared, just hugely uncomfortable.

A year or more later I realised that 'uncomfortable' is how I rationalise being scared.

Felt like I was in a tunble drier.

I would do it again but am not likely to get the chance.

Simon

[The DJ 27]

I had a good look over this car at Donington a few weeks ago. It is stunningly well built, and looked ferociously fast when it was out on track. We were stood on the pitwall when it was lapping during the lunch break, and it was easily as quick as a EuroBOSS car in a straight line. I'm highly tempted to have a go as and when I can afford it

[all black]

does anyone know costs? It doesnt say much on their web site.

[vintage_bob]

I look after the FSC and it is a lovley car. The cost is depending on the track but starts at £250.00 and dates will be on the website soon any questions on the car please email me [e-mail]

[instructor]

If Mike is ever too busy, Bob, and you need someone to drive it! Mike knows me btw, he drove our Viper (Brookspeed) in BGT! I've emailed you seperately.

[DM-IoM]

The SFC Twin-Seater will be running at the Aintree Festival of Motorsport this weekend (Frday 19th. - Sunday 21st. Nov.) -probably the final outing of this year, having had a successful season ranging from a very wet Oulton Park in February, to Goodwood, Donnington, Silverstone, Brands, Zolder and most impressive was Spa-Francorchamps.

Anyone who's interested please call Nick on 07860 84 84 94 - or come and find us at the very large blue race transporter in the paddock - we'll also have a classic Mustang for those who'd prefer a "tin-top" ride. More info on www.RaceCarRides.com