Marlin Sportster 1997, 2002
| Sportster | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | open two seat |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 2000 to 3500 cc BMW E36 I6 |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 3,650 mm (144 in) |
| Width | 1,650 mm (65 in) |
| Curb weight | 850 kg (typical) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Marlin Roadster |
The Sportster is the latest in the Roadster line but completely updated with the BMW E36 six cylinder engine as standard. It is available as a kit or fully built.
The original launch of the Sportster had seen Marlin coming into more regular contact with a younger customer, and the Kool Kars 5exi was launched in 2003. Designed around the Rover K-Series engine/gearbox unit, this car offers a low-cost, easy-build with contemporary styling, and despite the move to a mid-engined layout the 5exi maintains many of the traditions of Marlin engineering, once again using an unusually large number of components from the one source.
Most recently, the car has been changed with the addition of full height doors and the option of using Honda’s Type R VTEC engine, and a Racing Club has been formed for owners.
Also in 1997, in response to a demand for the Lotus 7 type of car, Marlin added the Sportster model to their range. With more room inside, good weather equipment, doors and boot space, the Sportster was welcomed.
In 2002 the Sportster was re-launched with a brand new suspension and engine package, the older Ford components being replaced by sourced from BMW’s 3-series. With this upmarket, yet affordable new donor came the promise of more exciting engine options (over 320bhp with the M3 Evo unit) and more refined and capable suspension and braking components. Once again the new BMW package allowed the builder to assemble a Sportster using just one donor.