Vauxhall's Ferrari Beater

Meet the Vauxhall with a better power-to-weight ratio than a Ferrari 360M. This outrageous sports car is called the S Sport VX320, and as the name suggests, it is a mighty 320bhp version of the lightweight VX220.

Auto Express Car Reviews

24th March 2004

Available this summer and weighing only 900kg, the sportster has a supercharged 3.0-litre V6, giving a power-to-weight ratio of 356bhp per tonne. It has a re-engineered chassis and should be capable of 0-60mph in four seconds, with a 160mph top speed. The car draws inspiration from Vauxhall's EcoSpeedster concept (bottom image), and shares only its doors with its standard sibling. As a result, it is 170mm longer and 100mm wider.

While the VX320 isn't officially endorsed by Vauxhall, the firm has given tacit backing to S Sport, of Royston, Herts. Bosses from both firms are in talks about supplying the model as a complete machine for around ΂£45,000. However, initially it will be available only through Allon White Sports Cars (0845 3457666) as a conversion. That will cost ΂£18,000-΂£20,000 on a new or used VX220.