Just joined the forum as there aren't that many Formula27s (or F27 to some) around and as far as I know only one F27 Volumex - mine.
Basically it's Caterham Se7en clone and happened by accident.
I owned a Lancia Beta HPE Volumex which I bought as a resto project but tin-worm had the better of it. The engine is the Lampredi designed 2 ltr twin cam which the Fiat Lancia Group supercharged (calling it the Volumex) and used in the Beta based Type 037 rally cars. They wanted something closer to one of their road cars compared to the limited edition Stratos which a lot will remember as a world-beater. In order to homologate the Volumex engine they offered it in Beta Coupes and HPEs. They sold about 200 Coupes and 140 HPEs right-hand drive versions in the UK. My engine had only done 34k miles and a friend suggested I put it in a kit car. Great idea I thought, especially as I then found the F27 part-built and with a Beta engine.
Just a simple engine swap then?
Well no, not really. Five years and numerous technical challenges later it passed SVA and has now been on the road a couple of years.
It's not hugely powerful - originally quoted as 135BHP and 150lbs ft. - but a four branch, slightly bigger carb and skimmed flywheel punts its 650kg along at a fair pace.
I've used it for Driving- and Track-days, an Autosolo (FDMC) and but for the same sunny weather (not) a couple of weeks ago would have run it down the strip at Santa Pod on a RWYB day.
So looking forward to meeting other kit enthusiasts - maybe this Saturday if I can get the pass signed.
All the best and safe driving, Pewe.
