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This article was taken from the September issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online
You don't need to buy an Aston V12 Vantage or a Lamborghini to experience supercar performance (or just show off to the neighbours). The thrills of the boy- (or girl-) racer can be yours at a knockdown price -- as long as you're ready to build it yourself. Here are three varieties of supercar kit that you can build reasonably easily in your garage.
THE FASTEST The Ultima GTR From £35,000 The base 300bhp engine will get you to 60mph in four seconds and up to 180mph. Ultima says you need around £200-worth of tools, but enthusiasts' build sites such as ultimagtr640.com say that you'll need £600. You'll require a garage but no prior build experience. ultimasports.co.uk
THE EASIEST TO BUILD The Caterham From £13,000 The dashboard and wiring loom are fitted; there are no metal panels to cut to fit and no welding.
Described as a "big boys' Meccano set", its options range from the 105bhp Classic (£13,300) to the lightweight Superlight R500 (£40,200). www.caterham.co.uk
DO-IT-YOURSELF The Haynes Roadster Around £5,000 If you're technically proficient, you can build from scratch using a donor car with the help of Haynes's Build Your Own Sports Car On A Budget. This book shows you how to build a Lotus 7-style car, using a Ford Sierra and spending about £5,000. There are also build diaries online. www.haynes.co.uk
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
