I want a Seven, she wants a traditional roadster..

[melch]

I want to start a build this autumn and have had a close look at Luego (Viento), Tiger (wider Cat) and Quantum (Xtreme). I also intend to visit MNR (handy as it's literally just around the corner) and Raw in the next few weeks.

She would prefer something more traditional and is a big fan of the Royale Sabre. I am not. I am 35 and have no desire to start smoking a pipe, drinking mild and watching Countdown.

It set me thinking about a compromise in particular the Marlin Sportster which looks fantastic and appears to offer sevenesque handling and performance in a more traditional wrapper. Has anyone had any experience of Marlin and this particular model? The Roadster also appeals albeit this project is up for sale just now.

The NG TC would also appear to fit the bill but for the elderly underpinnings.

I would be very grateful for any thoughts you have.

Cheers

Melch

[docevi1]

I have a Roadster, jolly good fun it is too. Mine can been seen www.stefancarlton.net/index.php?menu=marlin&type=marlin. Email me if you have any questions...

Check out the Marlin Owners Club forum as well www.marlinownersclub.com/forum_main.php

[dern]

You need to ask yourself who is building it, what are you building it for, how much will your other half want to go out in it when it's built and whether you will be able to maintain the enthusiasm to keep going out to the garage when you're building a compromise. If you want to build something that will solely used for summer picnics with the missus then fair enough but if you are looking for a genuinely sporty car that you really want to rip about in and do some track days in then the requirement for the odd sunday picnic would be accomodated by a cheap mx5 or similar while you build your race car.

I'm not knocking marlins but if you have your heart set on a westfield then it isn't quite the same thing I imagine.

Mark

[The DJ 27]

Marlin 5exi with the Rover T-Series turbo engine? Looks modern and very cool IMHO. I'd say it would be rather rapid with 200bhp as well

[Twincam16]

YKC Julietta? BMW E30 3-series based, looks inspired by classic Alfa Romeo racers and as controlable as a Seven when pushed. They even do a direct Seven rival, the YKC Raider.

[melch]

dern said:

You need to ask yourself who is building it, what are you building it for, how much will your other half want to go out in it when it's built and whether you will be able to maintain the enthusiasm to keep going out to the garage when you're building a compromise. If you want to build something that will solely used for summer picnics with the missus then fair enough but if you are looking for a genuinely sporty car that you really want to rip about in and do some track days in then the requirement for the odd sunday picnic would be accomodated by a cheap mx5 or similar while you build your race car. I'm not knocking marlins but if you have your heart set on a westfield then it isn't quite the same thing I imagine. Mark

Mate, you hit the nail right on the head. Thanks!

[melch]

The DJ 27 said:

Marlin 5exi with the Rover T-Series turbo engine? Looks modern and very cool IMHO. I'd say it would be rather rapid with 200bhp as well

Would shift, but not keen on the look. Cheers