Uniquely Canadian cars
Cars for the world … made in Canada
A car that's uniquely Canadian isn't as difficult to find as you might imagine - and we're not talking about badge wonders like the Acura CSX either. No, we're talking designed, engineered and built for a global audience right here in Canada. None could really be considered every-day transportation, but all have definite elements of fun and raw performance. Click through to see what we've assembled.
De Macross GT1
Photo: De Macross
Utilizing the assembled brain-trust at Markham, Ont.-based Multimatic, the De Macross GT1 could very well be the ultimate supercar. Using suspension technology borrowed from Formula One, a carbon fibre tub, and a Roush-tuned 5.4-litre V8 that uses a supercharger to help boost horsepower to 800 and torque to 700 lb.-ft. DeMacross claims that it'll hit 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds before topping out close to 350 km/h. The styling borrows bits and hits from a broad cross-section of performance cars, like the Ferrari F50, Ford GT, maybe a hint of Ferrari here and there. Price? Try a million and a half loonies.
Campagna T-Rex
With a name like Campagna, you'd expect a fire-breathing V12 exotic from Italy, not a low, lithe 'trike' from Montreal. But its T-Rex has lasted 15 years broadly unchanged. Things like more power, suspension refinements and wheel designs have evolved in that time, but Canadian Paul Deutschman's raw little design still turns heads. The current top-level 14RR uses a Kawasaki-sourced 1400cc engine that produces 197 horsepower and 113 lb.-ft. of torque. Power goes to the single wide rear tire through a six-speed sequential gearbox. Performance for you and one passenger is mind-blowing for only $58,500.
Campagna V13R
Like its T-Rex sibling, the Campagna V13R is a three-wheel 'car' that sits two people side by side, with the engine, transmission and single rear wheel behind. But unlike the futuristic T-Rex, the V13R is more traditional, more sculpted, more muscular, and it doesn't have a top. The Harley-Davidson-sourced V-Twin provides 122 horsepower and 84 lb.-ft. of torque and uses a five-speed sequential transmission. More relaxed tourer than outright corner carver, there's even space in the front trunk for some small squishable suitcases. Much more accessible too, starting at $47,999.
HTT Pléthore LC-750
Photo: HTT Technologies
Another Montreal-based entry comes from HTT and its Pléthore LC-750 supercar. There's nothing subtle about its three-abreast seating, six-speed sequential racing transmission or 750-horsepower supercharged 7.0-litre V8. The chassis and body are made of carbon fibre, meaning the weight is kept reasonable at only 1,100 kg. A Canadian take on the McLaren F1? Awful close, and in these times of million-dollar Lamborghinis and Aston Martins, the $795,000 that HTT want for a Pléthore seems almost reasonable.
Bricklin SV-1
Photo: Bricklin
This one doesn't quite follow the pattern of the previous entries, as it's the only car on this list not currently in - or slated for - production, but despite being developed and built in the mid-'70s, the Bricklin SV-1 still looks remarkably modern. Assembled in New Brunswick, the gullwing-doored SV-1 was built of fibreglass with an integrated roll cage and came in one of five easy-to-spot colours. Although they were powered by either AMC or Ford V8's, power numbers were never terribly impressive, but some of the American magazines felt the SV-1 was a match for its Corvette contemporary. High praise indeed.
Can-Am Spyder
Photo: BRP
Another Canadian trike built near Montreal, the Can-Am Spyder features more conventional motorcycle-style seating, but with two front wheels sharing the steering duties. That its layout and controls are similar to a snowmobile shouldn't come as a surprise since BRP - owner of Can-Am - also produces Ski-Doos. Fitted with modern safety systems, like ABS and traction control, the Spyder draws a crowd. And it can escape pretty easily too thanks to its 106-horsepower Rotax 990 V-Twin engine. Pricey at just under $20,000 to start, but very unique.
Can-Am Roadster
Photo: BRP
The Roadster shares most of its parts with the previously mentioned Spyder, but adds a larger front fairing, an electrically operated windshield, and a larger passenger seat and moulded seat bags. More designed for cruising with friends or long-distance trips to Florida. There's GPS, a standard semi-auto transmission, cruise control, embroidered seats ... the Cadillac of Can-Ams starts at $24,899.
Allard J2X
Photo: Allard
Unlike the Bricklin, the Allard J2X is simply the continuation of a great line of Allard cars originally built in the early '50s. Considered by many to be one of the first factory hot-rods, the J2X featured a lightweight body, pretty simple suspension and gigantic Cadillac or Chrysler Hemi V8s for the requisite shove. The MKII that the Montreal-based Allard Motor Works now sells to the public is nearly identical in every respect, but subtly updated for better comfort, safety and performance. The V8 is a 350-hp GM unit (a 5.7-litre or 6.1-litre Chrysler Hemi is also available) with a five-speed manual transmission. Even the 'base' J2X will hit 100 km/h in the high four second range. Priced from $140,000.
Motive Kestrel
Photo: Motive
Given that Canadians are a particularly practical-minded and frugal bunch, it's been something of a surprise to see that all the vehicles on our list are performance-first fun-machines. But here's one that breaks that trend - the Motive Kestrel, a four-seat compact electric car that hails from Calgary, Alta. This tailpipe emissions-free ride has a range of 160 km per charge, and can travel at speeds of up to 135 km/h. Expect to see it on the market sometime next year.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis is an interesting article. Reasons like this is why I try to stay away from buying new cars. I personally like buying used cars because it saves me some money and I can also re-sell it if I want. I used to love the "cash for Cars" deal because it kept the used cars business rolling. Obviously times are changing and people are starting to invest in electric and hybrid cars to help the environment.
ReplyDeleteJunk Car Removal Oakville