V to C: A new A7 bodyshell

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A New A7 Bodyshell

Those addicted to building A7 Specials, and it is a rather happy addiction, may be interested to know that, if they are unable to obtain a 6’3″-wheelbase chassis on which to mount one of the proprietory bodyshells, there is a solution. Chris Gould, who supplied glassfibre replica Ulster shells for the former chassis recognises that the earlier A7 chassis are now less easy to find and can provide his Imp shell designed to place on a 6’9″ wheelbase Ruby A7 chassis. This pointed-tail two-seater has rear valances that cover the Ruby petrol tank and chassis extensions, to save expense, and it is said to give more leg room to the occupants than an A7 Nippy, as the footrest panels are more vertical and the use of an Ulster-type hood means that the seats are further back.

The body is doorless and the hood is contrived to tilt upwards for easier entry and access to the cockpit. The dashboard is moulded in one with the body but is slightly recessed, to give the appearance of a separate panel. Gould says the fold-flat windscreen makes an excellent picnic table!  The A7 Imp is intended to have flattened road springs, a dropped front axle, and the steering-column suitably lowered. With A7 Specials improvisation is part of the fun, but the design is based on using a Fiat 600 radiator and Fiat 500 seats, modified to suit. The body panels are self-coloured to obviate the cost of spraying and fitting instructions are provided. The spare wheel is horizontal in the tail, with luggage space above it.  A set of four wings. with “hooded” valances, sets off the car’s appearance. At the time of writing the cost of the lmp bodyshell is  £700 complete, or £763 with screen frame, but it can be supplied without the floor panel if required. — W. B.