Briggs Automotive Company Bac Mono 2011–

Mono 2011– Featured Image

 

Mono
BAC Mono (8606487117) b.jpg
Overview
Manufacturer Briggs Automotive Company
Production 2011–present
Layout RMR layout
Powertrain
Engine 2.3L Cosworth Duratec I4
Transmission 6 speed sequential semi-automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,565 mm (101.0 in)
Length 3,952 mm (155.6 in)
Width 1,800 mm (70.9 in)
Height 1,110 mm (43.7 in)
Kerb weight 540 kg (1,190 lb)

The company produces the Mono, a single seater road-legal sports car launched in 2011. Engineers from Cosworth, Hewland, Sachs, AP and Kumho Tires partnered with designers at BAC.

The Mono uses carbon fibre composite construction over a steel chassis (with FIA compliant rollover structure) inspired by the construction principles employed in DTM race cars. The nose of the vehicle provides a storage compartment and doubles as impact protection.

The Mono was originally powered by a 2.3-litre four-cylinder Cosworth gasoline engine producing 285 bhp (213 kW; 289 PS) at 7700 rpm, a heavily modified Ford Duratec. The Mono weights just 540 kg (1,190 lb). These specifications result in a 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) time of 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 170 mph (274 km/h). In 2015 the engine was replaced by a 2.5-litre unit developing 305 bhp (227 kW; 309 PS) at 8000 rpm. The car runs a F3-specification six-speed sequential gearbox developed by Hewland. This gearbox operates a semi-automatic transmission tuned to complete gear shifts in 35 milliseconds.

Weight-distribution in the Mono is focused on maintaining a low centre of gravity. The engine is mounted longitudinally to maintain the centralised balance of the car. It includes a fully adjustable pushrod suspension system with damping elements made by SACHS Racing. AP Racing developed the retardation and stopping ability of the car. The Mono runs on specifically designed Kumho V70A road tires.

During production, each vehicle is custom-built around the purchaser's body shape. The size of the seat, pedal reach and steering wheel position are modified in order to suit the individual's ergonomic requirements.

The Mono ran 1:14.3 at the Top Gear test track. This made it the fastest car to go around the track in two years (the previous record-holder being the Ariel Atom).

In late 2012, the BAC Mono was featured in Need for Speed: Most Wanted. The BAC Mono also appeared in Grid 2 in 2013, Driveclub in 2014, and Project CARS and Forza Motorsport 6 in 2015. The Mono recently appeared again in Forza Horizon 3 in late 2016 and in CSR Racing 2 in late 2017, as well as appearing in the recent Forza Horizon 4 in late 2018.

Reception

  • GQ Track Day Car of the Year 2012
  • Top Gear Stig's Car of the Year 2011
  • Steve Sutcliffe's "Car of the Year"
  • Xcar Best Drive 2012–2013" Editor's Choice