by New British sports car Nichols N1A: Lightness and power from a Formula 1 legend
Turning a prototype into a production car is an extremely difficult task, but after a lengthy development period, a new driver-focused sports car has appeared in the UK. The Nichols N1A, which has been in development for over four years, has finally been presented in its production form.
The person responsible for creating this car is Steve Nichols. He played a key role in the engineering of such Formula 1 icons as the McLaren MP4/1, MP4/3, and MP4/4, so he knows well what it takes to create a truly great machine. The total production run of the N1A will be limited to fewer than 150 units.
Design and construction
The N1A, which draws visual inspiration from classic racing cars and is open-topped, uses an aluminum and carbon fiber chassis, complemented by carbon fiber body panels. Its weight is less than 900 kg.
Engines and performance
The car is offered with two engine options. The base engine is a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 from Chevrolet producing 475 hp and 637 Nm of torque. For those seeking more power, a massive 7.0-liter naturally aspirated LS7 is available, delivering 700 hp and 813 Nm.
In its most powerful version, the N1A can accelerate to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. To ensure control by the driver, not electronics, the car is devoid of any assistance systems and uses only a six-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive.
Focus on handling
The UK has a long and glorious history of creating outstanding lightweight sports cars, and the N1A adheres to the same philosophy without relying solely on power. To this end, it is equipped with independent front and rear double wishbone suspension and four-way adjustable dampers. The car is also shod in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires: 245-width at the front and 305-width at the rear.
Production and price
Nichols will produce the N1A in partnership with RML Group, which was originally founded as a British racing team in the 1980s and now also builds its own supercar based on the Porsche 911. Prices for the standard N1A start at £450,000 (approximately $604,000 USD). The first 15 units will be a special Icon 88 version, with prices starting at £500,000 (approximately $671,000 USD). Each one is dedicated to one of the McLaren MP4/4’s race wins in the 1988 Formula 1 season.
This car is a vivid example of how engineering experience from the highest level of motorsport is embodied in a road car. The limited production run and the focus on pure driving without electronic intervention make the N1A not just another supercar, but a true tool for enthusiasts. The collaboration with RML Group, which has its own experience in creating unique cars, adds confidence in the quality of production. The high price and exclusivity, backed by Steve Nichols’ history, make the N1A a worthy successor to British lightweight sports cars, which are valued not for power, but for harmony with the driver.
