Wednesday 3rd July 2002

Quantum 2 plus 2

Graham Bell tests a sports car made from an old shopping trolley

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[kevinday]

Sorry Joe, but I'd much rather have a Quantum than an FBS.

[fizz]

Uh, they sold the Mercury Capri (Australian Ford) here in the US and it was a dog. I see the Quantum 2+2 shares the same genetic material. Woof!

[stevenrt]

I wonder how a GRP monocoque compares with the approach used by FBS - central steel monocoque?

I think Joe was going to demo an Elise S2 last weekend, if you're reading this, how about some comments comparing it to the FBS?

[grahambell]

Hi stevenrt,

Currently trying to get some torsional stiffness figures for the Quantum's monocoque, but as the current Quantum team didn't design it and are up to their eyes with a new showroom, factory and two new (sort of) cars it might be some time before I get an answer!

Doubt it will be anywhere near as stiff as the FBS though as that really is exceptional for a soft top.

[joe90]

So Kevin would rather have a Quantum than an FBS? Interesting comparison , a specifically engineered V6 FE RWD factory built car against a Fiesta based FE FWD kit car - I can't see the logic in this.

Steven, I did get to look at that Elise 2 recently. It's still a tiny, noisy (not as noisy as the S1), cramped car only suitable for agile trouser wearers. It is not a proper convertible, just a soft Targa. Various irrelevant details scream cheap (as they do with any low volume car including ours, just don't think Lotus are different). Didn't get to drive it so no idea if the S1's dynamic weaknesses have been fixed. Did get a short low speed ride and the buffeting on the back of your head even at 50mph was pretty awful. Don't get me wrong, it's still going to be a fun track / nice day vehicle (I enjoyed testing the S1 around Gaydon but can't actually see why it gets such high praise) and has that all important well known badge for those unable to make up their own minds so well done Lotus I say but I still think they did a massively better car in the M100 Elan.

[chris71]

stevenrt said:

I wonder how a GRP monocoque compares with the approach used by FBS - central steel monocoque? I think Joe was going to demo an Elise S2 last weekend, if you're reading this, how about some comments comparing it to the FBS?

The old style Quantum brochure had a comparision - think it was 2.5 times that of an MGB they said. The RHS in the sills boosts the strength enormously (although wont have much effect on torsional rigidity).

These things are great! as a 21 year old male driver I shouldn't be able to insure anything for £195!! (which btw is 1/10th what I was qouted for the original XR2!!)

.....just a shame its FWD, but you cant have everything!

[Sook]

chris71 said:

These things are great! as a 21 year old male driver I shouldn't be able to insure anything for £195!! (which btw is 1/10th what I was qouted for the original XR2!!)

Was that £195 with or without NCB?

[Rickbrown74]

Graham Bell said:

Of course the SVA test has only eradicated dodgy kit car construction, not dodgy kit car styling, but again that's no problem with the Quantum. Personally I've always liked the Quantum's looks, and while it might not have the jaw-dropping impact of a Nova, Phantom or Ultima, it's a stylish machine....

Ummm... It might have been in the 80's/early 90's. not now.

[grahambell]

OK Rick, it might be dated but I'd still have the Quantum's looks rather than the new stuff from BMW or Renault anyday.

[ferg]

grahambell said:

OK Rick, it might be dated but I'd still have the Quantum's looks rather than the new stuff from BMW or Renault anyday.

I certainly prefer the Quantum's looks to the FBS Census..............






(And there are much better looking mid engined cars about too)

[Rickbrown74]

ferg said:

grahambell said: OK Rick, it might be dated but I'd still have the Quantum's looks rather than the new stuff from BMW or Renault anyday. I certainly prefer the Quantum's looks to the FBS Census..............

Didnt know what a FBS Census was so looked it up.

It COULD have been nice but is let down by the nose being too droopy looking plus the horrible way in which the lights and accompanying lines of bodywork are at the back. I agree that the Quantum looks better!!!!