Melkus RS2000 edges closer to production

Posted Fri Oct 12 2007 6:52 AM by Viknesh Vijayenthiran

Development of the first new Melkus sports car since 1986 is almost complete with initial plans for a 2009 relaunch of the brand still on track. The initial design models of the car have been created and the hope is that the final car will be ready in time for the next Frankfurt Motor Show in two years time. The new car shares a striking resemblance to the original RS1000 built during the 1970s, featuring the same wheel arches, circular tail lights and gullwing doors.

Melkus follows a similar design principle as Lotus and that is to design and build light weight cars that can be used both in town and at the track. The new RS2000 will weigh less than 1,000kg and will either be powered by a VW TSI engine or a turbo unit sourced from Opel. There are also plans for a more powerful RS2000 GT model, which should develop up to 300hp. Standard models will develop around 150 to 200hp.

The engine will be mounted in the rear of the car and the area under the front hood will be used for the radiators, air conditioning system, battery and safety reinforcements. The car will also feature a stripped out interior as well as a roll cage, two sports bucket seats with racing harnesses and aluminum pedals.

Melkus hopes to build up to 25 RS2000s per year at an estimated price of €60,000 a piece.

MotorAuthority