OK, so '500hp-per-tonne' only counts if you're looking at your stationary Zenos E10 R from afar. And it doesn't have any fuel in it. But gassed up and occupied you're still looking at over 400hp-per-tonne for £39,995, comparing with a claimed 375hp-per-tonne for a
Caterham 420
at just shy of £34K factory built and with the track-focused R pack.
Will be troubling many a powerful Caterham
Now, as we all know, Zenos's founders worked at Caterham and understand their rival's MO. And the Seven is an obvious target in the E10's sights. While aimed at similar audiences the two cars couldn't be more different in the way they deliver their thrills though, the hard-wired Seven experience under threat from the Zenos's whizz-bang turbocharged delivery. That's already pretty exciting in the 2.0-litre, Ford Ecoboost powered
250hp E10 S
. What it'll be like with the 2.3-litre version of the same from the
Mustang
Focus RS
, another 100hp and torque increased from 295lb ft to 349lb ft is something we need to find out ASAP! As Zenos points out, 332lb ft of that is available between 3,000 and 6,000rpm, giving it huge mid-range punch normally-aspirated rivals may struggle to keep tabs with.
Zenos, please can we have a go?
Upgrades over the E10 S include a lighter flywheel, three-inch exhaust system, shortened gearlever for the standard six-speed gearbox (optional on the S), four-point harnesses and uprated brakes with four-pot calipers all round. There are also 'detailed changes' to the inboard springs and dampers, helped by a 10kg reduction in unsprung weight from the adoption of new wheels. 'Drive Edition' versions, limited to 15 examples and priced at £43,995, include the one-way adjustable dampers, removable steering wheel and uprated brake master cylinders and other features offered optionally on the standard R. They are further distinguished by Satin Black interior and exterior trim and a suitably menacing 'Charged Graphite' body colour.
From the start Zenos has majored on value for money. And from the original E10's brief to offer a cost-effective but modern looking Seven rival to the new R's affordable Ariel Atom chaser vibe it expands the target audience considerably. Not to mention the potential thrills. We're already pestering for a drive...