What?

The car is a Syvla Mojo SE - further details can be found here and here. It's an open-top 2 seater lightweight sports car based on a tubular steel chassis, aluminium panels, fibreglass bodywork and a selection of new and 2nd hand parts. Many donor parts are taken from a MK4 Ford Fiesta which provides the Zetec SE engine, gearbox, pedals, gearshift mechanism, ECU and other parts. The front uprights are taken from a Capri, and the rear from a MK2 Fiesta. Driveshafts are also from a MK2 fiesta although the donor parts can be used if modified. The steering column is from the venerable Sierra as are the rear brake calipers.

As mentioned, the Mojo will use the Zetec SE engine which is an all aluminium block and is therefore very light. Designed by Yamaha and Ford, the 1242cc engine puts out around 74hp in standard form. Although this doesn't sound very much (and I know that many of the V8 brotherhood are now having a good laugh...) it does have a number of advantages:

• It weighs much less than a big V8, or even a standard Zetec engine (which has a cast iron block).
• It doesn't drink fuel as much as larger engines which is good news with fuel prices being what they are!
• Road tax is cheaper
• Weight distribution is better, therefore handling and vehicle dynamics will be better
• The Mojo should weigh in at around 500Kgs. This should allow a 0-60 time of around 7-8 seconds.
• A 1.4, 1.6 or 1.7 Zetec SE can be bolted directly to the 1.25 gearbox after SVA <ahem>. The 1.7 Zetec from a Racing Puma gives out around 155bhp giving potential performance figures of 0-60 in around 4 seconds!
• A 'limited' 74bhp engine is plenty enough to have fun with and to learn the essential skills of rear-wheel-drive without resorting to a trip to hospital and a large repair bill.

Why?

Why not?! I've fancied building a just-for-fun car for many years now and I'm finally in a position where I can bring the dream to life. I've always enjoyed tinkering with engines and oily bits and the prospect of building something that gives so much enjoyment not only during the build, but for years afterwards is too much to resist.

As for the choice of a Mojo... I've been to several kit car shows previously and I'm always stunned by the number of Lotus Seven inspired vehicles that are on show. Row upon row upon row of almost identical Robin Hoods, Caterhams, Westfields etc etc and I felt that something different would be a good idea. Not to dismiss the Sevens - there are obvious benefits due to the sheer number of websites and associated support along with the easy supply of components!

However, I remember when I first stumbled across the Mojo on the Stingray website and thought to myself that here was a particularly fine looking car. After further investigation, the pedigree of this vehicle was obvious. It's designed by Jeremy Philips who has a proven history of producing well sorted chassis designs and some very attractive bodywork packages! Just do a Google search for the Fisher Fury, the Phoenix, and the Riot and you'll see what I mean...

When?

As mentioned - this is the culmination of many years of wishing and hoping, of saving money, leafing through catalogues and browsing websites. The project was really started in earnest in May 2008 and I'm hoping to have something on the road within 18 months.

How?

Errr... with spanners, screwdrivers, drills, blood, sweat, tears, and a fistful of cash?...

Where?

In my workshop in Suffolk.