Luso Motors LM23 mid-engined track-focused kit car

Posted Fri Jul 4 2008 10:45 PM by Nelson Ireson

Ernesto Freitas, the design force behind Portugal's Luso Motors, has released another design concept but instead of reviving the Ferrari Dino or the Avions Voisin brand, the new car is an own-branded track-focused two-seater. Inspired by the classic Lotus 23b, the LM-23 combines tube-frame construction and mid-engine balance in a lightweight and affordable package.

Starting at just €15,000 ($23,500) for the rolling-chassis kit (without an engine), the car offers one of the least expensive entries into high-performance track driving available. Add a Honda CBR1000 1.0L engine producing in excess of 150hp (112kW) powering the rear wheels through a sequential six-speed gearbox, and you've got a recipe for serious fun.

Built of steel tubing with an aluminum underskin, the outer paneling is made of fiberglass and carbon fiber for lighter weight. At just 400kg (880lb) the car doesn't require much power for extreme acceleration.

A range of small car engines, including Subaru's turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine can also be fitted. Freitas has developed a special kit that will convert the Subaru's standard AWD powertrain to RWD only. The car is currently available only as a kit. Whether the company has plans to eventually move to full production is unknown.

Gallery: Luso Motors LM23

Reader Comments

Sun Jul 6 2008 11:31 PM
Layne says

Freakin' sweet! I want one for sure.
Tue Jul 8 2008 1:18 PM
gino says

Paint those ridiculous wheels fuchsia...
Tue Jul 8 2008 5:47 PM
nobo says

Amazing ! Portuguese are really "artists"...

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