Classic Touring Car Build 1971 AMC Gremlin
The Concept
It's the often quoted phrase for any sort of automotive project build " Start with the best base vehicle you can afford and you'll save money in the long term" and with a history of expensive projects in the past I know how truthful that statement is.
So how come I find myself starting a race car build project based on a 1971 AMC Gremlin that needs repair welding and was purchased as a non-running vehicle is a question that probably needs answering.
Personally I've become increasingly drawn to historic motorsport in recent years, and within the context of setting up Patina and Performance a motorsport build seemed appropriate, and given the other areas of focus for the business it seemed logical to base this around American vehicles. Obvious platforms would be the ubiquitous Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro but I've always sought to try something a little different and truthfully something Mopar derived was my initial thoughts. Whilst trawling though the FIA homologation register(demonstrating I live a full & exciting life) I discovered that the Gremlin was in fact Group 1 homologated.
Almost by fate there happened to be a near perfect candidate for sale, in the UK at a 'reasonable' price recognising the current prices and import costs, and thus a deal was done. In many ways it's a really poor choice, it won't be competitive in the Class structure applicable to the UK as it will be placed with the bigger engined cars when in period on the USA SCCA structure it raced competively against the BMW 2002 and Ford Escorts but that's not really the point. It's about brining something that entertaining to drive, and something a little unusual on track.
So presently it's stashed in the corner of the workshop awaiting stripdown before I send the shell away for a full chemical dip, thereafter it's time for repair welding and seam welding in accordance with what's allowed via the regulations. I'm planning to document the build on here and just possibly the odd video blog of activities(never wholly sure about taking the role of 'creator' but you never know.