Unleashing the Thrill: Exploring the World of EXO Cars

EXO cars, those stripped-down, lightweight track toys, have been captivating petrolheads for decades. The concept originated in the 1950s with the Lotus 7, a race car that prioritized performance through weight reduction. Today, these machines have evolved into something truly diabolical. Picture this: a small, older car like an Acura Integra or a Mazda Miata undergoes major surgery. Body panels? Gone. Interior? Ripped out. Only the essentials remain as a full body cage of metal tubes is meticulously crafted around the car. Creature comforts? Who needs 'em? All that matters are the gauges and the engine's wiring harness. It may look like a death trap, but trust me, it's all about the smiles.

One of the pioneers in the EXO car movement was the Roadkill Vet C, a project by David Freiburger and Mike Finnegan. They took an old C4 Corvette, stripped it down to its bare bones, and transformed it into a lightweight beast. With a tubular metal cage, new suspension, and some performance upgrades, this homemade creation lapped a track almost as fast as a brand new C7 Corvette with modifications. It was a testament to the power of lightness, proving that power can take a backseat when it comes to performance.

But there are companies that have taken the EXO car game to a whole new level. Take the Ariel Atom, for example. This bespoke machine features a 320 horsepower K20 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. With a weight of just 1,300 pounds, it can sprint from 0 to 60 in under 3 seconds. It's a track menace that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Then there's the Caterham, a Lotus 7-derived chassis with various engine configurations. From 180 horsepower to a spicy 310 horsepower, these lightweight wonders offer incredible performance for those willing to shell out the cash.

But what about the grassroots builders? CrowWorks, a small group of fabricators, has created their own EXO cars that rival the factory-built examples. The MX05, based on the Mazda Miata, is a stunning machine that looks like it belongs at SEMA. With a stock engine and upgraded suspension, it's a perfect blend of style and performance. And let's not forget the Xtegra, an Acura Integra-based EXO car that boasts a flashy tubular setup and aggressive styling. These grassroots builders offer a more affordable option for those looking to experience the thrill of an EXO car without breaking the bank.

However, it's important to approach these machines with caution. The drastic weight reduction and responsive suspension can make them quite challenging to drive, both on the street and the track. Safety should always be a priority when behind the wheel of an EXO car. But for those willing to take the risk, the reward is an unparalleled driving experience that will leave you grinning like a maniac. So, are EXO cars crazy? Perhaps. But in the pursuit of ultimate performance and pure driving pleasure, sometimes a little madness is just what we need.

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Viewer Reactions for Exo Cars Are OUT OF CONTROL!

Manufacturers stopped making simple affordable fun cars due to governmental regulations
Lotus and Colin Chapman popularized the concept of "simplify and add lightness"
Buying a kit car and powering it with a Viper V10 engine is the best thing ever
Some people want to own a BAC Mono
Compared to motorcycles, these cars provide more safety
Suggestions to add AWD and a cage above the driver for the BAC Mono
Some people love the BAC Mono
Adding traction aids can turn the BAC Mono into a racing beast
Confusion about the pronunciation of BAC Mono
Some people want to make their own lightweight cars
Clarification that it's Caterham, not catamaran
Positive reaction to the video
Mention of a famous person at 8:10 in the video
Lightweight cars are compared to turbo cars, with some preferring Lotus over Skyline
Some people find the BAC Mono ugly.