GTM vs. 818 for first build

[mikeford]

Hello,
I've never built a car before, but have mechanical aptitude and a can do attitude.

I convinced myself that I would start with an 818 because the GTM is too "hard".

Factory 5 told me the GTM is about 200 hours harder.

Is the GTM that much harder? Should I start an 818 or GTM?

I'm a bit stuck with this decision.

Thank you.

[michael everson]

If its your first build, 818 all the way. Should be way cheaper to build too.
Mike

[kabacj]

818 is a more beginner friendly build. The GTM is super in every way. Money, time, commitment. I built a GTM as my first build so it's possible. It's just a lot to learn. 818 gives you a great intro to the process of building a factory five with a quick result.

I'm planing my next factory five build as we speak. As a repeat builder you will be in good company.

[DadofThree]

that "200 hours harder" makes me laugh.

I'm building a roadster right now, and would like to think I was in your position a year ago. Never built a car, mechanically inclined, and a "can do" attitude It's that last one that you want to hold on to during the build. That last one is what will get you through this process. The last one is what will help you complete this incredible project. But you need to believe it. You must! I would say the GTM might be a little overwhelming for your first. You don't want the first one to break you. You want success on the first build. The 818 is definitely designed for completion before you run out of "can do". It's a lot of little baby steps for us first timers. And being able to keep your eye on the end prize helps.

It's been 13 months for me so far, and I'll probably be another 8-11months. Being a first timer, you learn A LOT! And, unfortunately, I learn by mistakes. :( But I wouldn't trade this experience. It's been great! Overwhelming many times, (like right now), but I know I can get through it. i still have the "Can Do" attitude. :)

[Erik W. Treves]

818...

[scud71]

I started with the GTM. It's been almost 4 years and I finally have the body to paint. It's been a massive project. However I haven't worked on the car everyday. It's at least a 3 day a week car. Something small each day is a milestone. For me I've had to make a full left to right hand conversion. With that comes many other changes. Engineering was never my thing however you learn as you go or your dream sits in a corner. If you have the ambition and want to start with the 818 then do it. If you love the GTM then take the bull By the horns as I did. You will look at it each day and know you have so much to do but have a plan to move forward. Without that plan you have nothing and just won't achieve.

[Fraser D]

I suggest that you build the car that you want to own.
There has been enough precedence of inexperienced builders successfully completing the GTM.
Both forums have been a great support and reference for both experienced and inexperienced builders alike.
The GTM is a challenging build so you will require a level of passion to keep progressing, but that seems to be the way with most things that are worthwhile.

[Presto51]

It depends on which car "speaks" to you the most. How good are you at planning, and sticking to the plan.

IMHO: Factory Five is great for their chassis designs, a ton of folks don't have the problems there, it's when they get to the body stage that upsets the plan and gives you a whole new world of challenges.

In reading over on the 818 forum, folks are having trouble with getting the body panels on the way they like them, so it seems that no matter which car you want to build they will make you earn the respect that you'll receive from others as they admire your creation, and you will achive something that many can't.

No matter which one you choose, just remember we are all here to help you to reach your goals, all you have to do is ask.

Ron

[GoDadGo]

The Peanut Gallery Votes For The MK-4 For Inexperienced Builders!

Having seen all of Factory Five's offerings it is my untrained opinion (No, I didn't go to the build school & I'm not an engineer.) that the MK-4 or 289 FIA is the best option for New-Bee-Builders. The Complete Roadster/289 Kits save you time, money and this platform is likely the most complete and best engineered compared to the rest of the Factory Five Fleet.

Peanut Gallery Pop >> aka: GoDadGo

[redfogo]

818 Owner here who also thought about the GTM. Build what you like and want! I started off wanting a GTM until the 818C came out I was sold after that. The big thing about the 818 vs the GTM is cost. I see a lot of guys spending 60k+ on GTM builds. I didn't have that kinda budget. The 25k on an 818 will get you a lot of fancy and nice things :). The new 818 top fitment is kinda messed up though but its fixable if you can do some body work or can hire someone.

[mikeford]

I'm still torn. I like the 818. I really like the GTM.
Like redfogo, with the old 818 nose and no coupe, it was an easier decision. The new nose and coupe option is what prompted the question. :)

Thank you for all of your feedback.

[ben1272]

I have never tackled many of the projects involved with building the 818 (pressing bushings, rebuilding CV joints/half shafts, pulling engine/tranny, etc), and have learned all these things while building the car. It has been awesome. I personsally like the 818 look better than the GTM, and it definitely has a LOT in the aftermarket available to make it as super-car-like as you want.....without breaking your bank (or with breaking, your choice).

Also, you will learn things with your first build that you will be glad to be able to apply to another car, should the GTM be what you really REALLY want in the first place. You just may not get all you want $$-wise for your hard work if you decide to sell your creation, so dont plan on making money by building and selling an 818 and then using money to buy GTM......you may not get as much money as you planned.

Like others have said, build the car you want to own and drive.....especially if you think it may be the only car you have in you to build! You will love it either way....just be patient and come here and ask a lot of questions.