If this tiny runabout looks flimsy from the
bodyshell point of view, rest assured you're safe there too.
The cutting and welding of the
bodyshell can stiffen these deformable areas around the welds, reducing performance in an accident.
central locking, ABS braking, branded scuff plates, mats and
bodyshell graphics, leather steering wheel and gear levers, aluminium fascia trim, a six CD autochanger, front fog lights, two-tone paintwork and electrically operated door mirrors.
Its work has made possible a significant reduction in
bodyshell weight, without any compromise in strength or rigidity, and has brought benefits in performance, dynamics, fuel economy and all-important CO2 emissions.
With subtle go-faster stripes, alloy wheels and a rear spoiler fitted to the Guigiaro-designed
bodyshell, the GTi Golf made a lifestyle statement out of a formerly innocuous hatch-back.
The Punto Evo has a stronger
bodyshell, new styling and range of engines including the new MultiAir petrol engine that's just gone into the Alfa Mito.
The new, longer, wider and taller A4
bodyshell will significantly increase the Audi's roadholding and handling ability.
McRae's Subaru has been specially modified, with increased ground clearance to avoid large boulders, additional
bodyshell reinforcement plus a large snorkel running from the engine to the outside of the car.
Now it has been completely revised from the ground upwards with a larger, roomier
bodyshell, fully independent suspension all round and two all- new lightweight aluminium engines - a 3.0-litre V6 and a 2.0-litre straight four.
He added: "This is because many front and rear windscreens are now bonded to the
bodyshell in order to stiffen the shell in the event of an impact or roll-over."
He told me that the car took 10 months to build using a GTD chassis and KVA
bodyshell.