The Basics
The S-IV was so well received following its introduction – so what’s happened to it since?
The answer to that frequently asked question lies in the allocation of finite production resources. Supply of these exciting, incredibly fast motor cars has always been restricted by limited capacity at Grinnall Cars farm-based factory, compounded by the ever increasing demand for the simultaneously launched Rocket 3 trike. The S-IV has not therefore had the impact it deserved. However, that situation is shortly to be remedied as production is set to increase significantly after a move to new, larger premises and a staff recruitment drive beginning in April 2010.
The car
The production version of the Scorpion-IV was launched at Autosport International 2005, the UK's premier motor-sport and sports car show. The S-IV was featured in leading UK motoring magazines from 2001 to 2005. Limited deliveries commenced in 2005, following the completion of the final testing programme.
Under the skin
In 1992, award-winning automotive stylist Steve Harper of SHADO was commissioned to pen the exciting new design of the BMW powered Scorpion-III. His breif included the 'form follows function' philosophy, as well as develop the styling, for the second stage of development; to incorporate a wheel on all corners. The eye-catching results for both vehicles were faithfully translated into a full sized clay buck model, and hence, via precision moulds into production.
The Scorpion-IV features a lightweight, super-stiff space-frame chassis onto which is bonded a composite body shell. The result is an exceptionally rigid structure; the platform for the S-IV's trademark supple and well controlled ride, precise handling and exceptional road holding abilities.
The front suspension is a development of the technology employed in the acclaimed Scorpion-III, double wishbones in oval tubing with inboard coil springs over, fully adjustable gas dampers. At the rear, long, super-stiff longitudinal links give superb handling and camber control without compromising the vehicle's distinctive styling. Damping is provided by Ohlins quality fully adjustable gas units made in Belgium by PHM Engineering.
Power is provided from the well proven Audi 1.8 litre, 4-cylinder, 5-valve motor with its slick, 6-speed Getrag transmission. The S-IV’s performance varies depending on the state of tune of the motor, from the standard 250bhp up to whopping 500bhp. With a new inlet manifold, turbo and re-programmed engine management, the standard motor can easily be tweaked to produce 370bhp and over 300lbf/ft of torque.
All motors are prepared by Jabba Motorsport, and are re-worked and re-calibrated to produce your required performance output. When over-bored to 1900cc and fitted with new forged pistons, forged con rods and Ole Buhl Racing Engine Managament System, power can be increased to 500bhp. Power to weight figures for the 500bhp version equate to around 715bhp/ton, giving the Scorpion-IV performance to equal or better exotic supercars costing hundreds of thousands of Euros.
We currently run a 370bhp version of the S-IV. Overall performance is absolutely stunning with acceleration amongst the top 10 world class leading cars and braking to match from 4-piston calipers and vented discs all round. The ride is exemplary and the handling totally predictable, with no hint of the lift-off-oversteer, so often a problem with mid/rear engined cars.
We now fit our new alloy steering column, which features sealed needle roller bearings, and is fully adjustable for height and reach. Couple this with a Titan Motorsport steering rack (LHD or RHD) and the car has light, precise steering with perfect feedback and balance.
The S-IV is equipped with Rimstock light alloy wheels shod with Toyo 888's 195/50/16 tyres on the front and 235/45/17 at the back. Optional rears are 275/40/17. Variable Traction Control is recommended on all S-IV’s.
10 years of evolutionary development have produced an unbeatable combination of styling, performance, quality and value for money. The S-IV is very competitively priced, from £27995 - and is aimed directly at track day enthusiasts or customers who might otherwise opt for the Ariel Atom or Caterham Seven.
So whether it’s a Sunday morning head-clearing sprint, a high speed dash to the French Riviera or a balls-out track day blast, the S-IV has to be high on your list of options.
So why not try all those options – and then call us to book your S IV demo – you will be pleased you did!