News: Introducing the Nichols Cars N1A: A 650 HP V8 Beast, Lighter than a Miata!

The N1A is a pure sports car inspired by the 1960s McLaren M1A race car. Nichols Cars, founded by Steve Nichols, has revived the spirit of McLaren’s first car by creating a road-legal performance vehicle. Nichols, known for implementing carbon fiber in Formula 1 cars, has an impressive resume, including designing the iconic McLaren MP4/4.

 

The N1A will be limited to 100 units, with the first batch of 15 cars individually numbered to honor the 15 victories of the legendary McLaren MP4/4 in the 1988 Formula 1 season. Powered by a massive 7.0-liter V8 engine producing 650 horsepower, the N1A weighs only 900 kilograms, making it 10% lighter than the lightest Mazda MX-5 Miata of its generation, with a remarkable power-to-weight ratio.

The car features traction control as standard, with ABS and power steering available as options. Its design, wider and with a longer wheelbase, takes inspiration from the classic Can-Am racer. It rides on 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and boasts fully independent front and rear suspension with double wishbones and anti-roll bars.

The N1A’s chassis combines carbon fiber and aluminum, while the driver-focused interior is refreshingly simple, allowing for a distraction-free driving experience. The two-seater includes a gated manual shifter and fender-mounted side mirrors, adding to the nostalgic feel of the car. Overall, the Nichols Cars N1A embraces the back-to-basics approach, delivering a thrilling driving experience for enthusiasts seeking a pure and engaging sports car.