gonna build me an Ultima

[V8Smith]

looking forward to building an Ultima, just want to call on the experience of you guys that own/have built one, is there any 'must haves' in terms of extras? im thinking uprated brakes and suspension might be the case, is that correct and are there any other must haves........?

Also, what the aproximate likely build cost without the engine?

cheers

Mik

[Storer]

Pretty much everything on the options list is a "must have".

Cost varies from about £35k to £70k plus engine and the "must have" bits push it towards the upper figure.

Not a car to build on the cheap!


Paul

[leem5]

Excellent, thats the third new build in a few weeks.

[drivin_me_nuts]

Biggest deciding factor (and probably cost) will be the engine. There are some 'stock' choices, old school vs LSsomethings or the more weird, wonderful, 'could I, should I' choices.

Then there are the costs of other things - how much bling you want to put inside your car is entirely up to you and the cost is measured in terms of labour, time and patience. Some are magnificent pieces or automotive 'art', others have the simple joy the the factory demonstrator. What ever you decide, STICK TO IT! (as the costs of altering things post decision are always greater... harder said than done though)

[Paul.B]

Most of the 'options' can be fitted at a later date. Brakes, wheels, suspension etc. The ONE you must fit at build time is the Air Con kit. Some say it is even a must on the Can-Am.
As for cost, you can put together a spreadsheet for a factory demo spec car with the info off their website. As mentioned above, it's when you start to go your own direction that the costs can get away from you. Interiors, painting, engine choice can and will all increase the build cost.

Did anyone mention you must fit the A/C?

[Abbosevolution]

Hi Mike - have you got the kit yet? I'm also in West Sussex and will be starting my build in June. I've done the costings to death and with options and ls power its easily £50k+. If you've got the time it's worth running through the forum posts and even contacting other owners direct. Those who I've contacted have been very helpful and most subjects have been raised on the forum before. Was a bit disappointed by the lack of an owners club but think this forum generally meets owners needs. Steve'

[3Dee]

If you are building yourself, and unless you have got lots of time on your hands i.e some have managed to build a complete car in a few months, not years as most of us, try not to get over-exuberant in your timed purchases!

I, and I suspect many other go buy stuff, parts or stages that we find sitting for months or sometimes years in the garage before it is needed, and all that time not being used, warranty runs out, and sometimes the item itself will not be 'as new' when needed. things like instrument panels, batteries, tyres, body-parts, and even major bits like engines are best left for purchase just before you r-e-a-l-l-y need them.

Also, precious space and the partners temper can be tested...

so, BE REALISTIC - not only work out your budget, but think hard on the actual time you will take for the overall build! What I thought would take 3 years, took over 5 + 2 years where I could not do anything at all!

Edited by 3Dee on Monday 8th April 09:05