Poll: Original Design vs. Replica vs. Modern version of a replica

[subyrod]

So, what is your vote for the exterior design? Lots of opinions in the posts so far. Not sure if I can post an actual poll. But, here's the basic options as I see it:

1) Totally original design

2) Exact replica

3) Modern rendition replica (inspired by a previous design)

[keys2heaven]

Original - How many chances does a company get to come up with a truly original design that takes feedback from its customer base for that design.

[subyrod]

Totally agree keys2hvn. But, I'm a QE by trade, so I like to put numbers to things. :) Let's see just what all the interested future kit builders wanna see. Originally when it was posted by Dave in the News about the WRX based kit, he mentioned the Stratos. I was stoked and started looking up pics of the stratos. But, then I saw pics of the "New Stratos" and was like, dang! THat's rad too. Then with the Open Design Comp starting in 2 weeks, it opens up a third option. I just wanted to see what people thought in a poll.

[MikeK]

I would like to see something new, I like the shape of the rough drawing, FFR has definitly made their mark with the GTM, now lets see if they can out do themselves.

[Rotr8]

Agree with keys

[Jo3sh]

I voted 'replica.' I can understand the desire to have something totally unique and special, and to participate in the creation of that thing, but the Stratos - and a lot of other cars people have posted too - are such clear, simple, pure designs that they just sing to me. I know I'm weird, but the work of some of the design houses during that era was really perfect.

Contrast that with some of the modern designs that have been posted - the K-1 Attack is a good example. I just see exercises in looking aggressive and edgy. I don't need to feel like I have to slam 47 espressos to keep up with a car. We all know the darn thing is going to go like stink and handle like it's on rails; there's nothing more to prove. Give me some of those pure lines from a Stratos, or a 904, or a Dino. I'm way more likely to buy, build, and drive a kit that looks elegant and sleek than one that looks like it wants to chew my leg off.

[VRaptor SpeedWorks, LLC]

I voted for original design. IMO if you're looking for a replica, most likely somebody already makes it or has made it in the past. I have a tough time thinking of a single Porsche or Ferrari from the 60's or 80's that has not been sold in kit form at one time or another. If you want a replica, most likely someone else already sells it......so no need to wait.....go buy it now.

[riptide motorsport]

Original.

[AVIONX]

Original. I already built an FFR replica and now I want something new! If the original is a good as the replica was I'll be something I never thought was possible....EVEN MORE IMPRESSED WITH FFR :)

[Seagondollar]

This is going to be different enough that it will need to look different. Doesn't mean it can't use some of the details from the classics.

[UpstateCobraGuy]

I'm pulling for a vintage period (near) replica of the Lancia Stratos, but it looks like I'm in the minority.

[subyrod]

I voted Original, but I'd be happy with all 3 options. I know FFR will do this kit right, so you really can't go wrong. My penny's worth.
I'm pulling for a vintage period (near) replica of the Lancia Stratos, but it looks like I'm in the minority.

[subyrod]

Bumping up so others who are newer don't miss this chance to vote...

[BrandonDrums]

Original. Replica's are cool but a solid original design will stand out more I think.

[RonSchofield]

I like a modern version of a replica. That is what I am doing with my coupe build so I am biased.

[Kc_Shane]

Original

[HealeyRick]

As an older guy that loves the classics, I nevertheless voted for an original design. There are plenty of replicas out there and starting with a clean sheet of paper would allow some of the shortcomings of those designs to be remedied. Plus it makes economic sense for FFR to get into a market with something that would appeal to younger builders with not a lot of spare cash to spend. Tapping into the tuner market is a good idea as well.

[WIS89]

I vote original. However, that doesn't mean it should totally ignore some heritage that exists from some current designs or models out there. There are some excelllent historic cars, or even newer futuristic designs that have theories that can be incorporated to some degree. However, to copy an existing design would be a mistake. There's no reason you can't pay homage to an idea or previous model, but come up with a new design. Reading this I sound bipolar, but perhaps this is exactly what I mean; new, but with a tip of the cap to the pre-existing excellence of a particular design(s). Si Bipolarly yours!!

Regards,

Steve

[subyrod]

Stevo, I think many have the same opinion. There are literally thousands of auto designs from the last 75 years for sports cars. Eventually, you can spot cues fromm any number of them. Most great looking sports cars have that "look", "energy", "sexiness" to them from their basic lines. This car has a tight budget, so whichever design wins will have to be a fairly simple one to translate to production.

I vote original. However, that doesn't mean it should totally ignore some heritage that exists from some current designs or models out there. There are some excelllent historic cars, or even newer futuristic designs that have theories that can be incorporated to some degree. However, to copy an existing design would be a mistake. There's no reason you can't pay homage to an idea or previous model, but come up with a new design. Reading this I sound bipolar, but perhaps this is exactly what I mean; new, but with a tip of the cap to the pre-existing excellence of a particular design(s). Si Bipolarly yours!!

Regards,

Steve

[Oppenheimer]

I vote original. However, that doesn't mean it should totally ignore some heritage that exists from some current designs or models out there. There are some excelllent historic cars, or even newer futuristic designs that have theories that can be incorporated to some degree. However, to copy an existing design would be a mistake. There's no reason you can't pay homage to an idea or previous model, but come up with a new design. Reading this I sound bipolar, but perhaps this is exactly what I mean; new, but with a tip of the cap to the pre-existing excellence of a particular design(s). Si Bipolarly yours!!

Regards,

Steve

Makes sense actually. The GTM is kinda inspired by the GT-40 (isn't it? I always thought it was), yet its quite an original design. I had just googled 'mid engine exotic' to get ideas of what looks good, and looking at the little thimb-nails on my crappy latop monitor, I saw one car that looked incredible. Hovering over it, you know what it was? The FFR GTM.

Something like that (inspired by another car, but still original) could work here. The more I look at those 'new' Lancia Stratos pics the more I like it. Kinda plays on the WRX rally heritage at the same time. Something 'inspired' by Stratos might look good.

I'm sure there are other cars that could inspire as well.

[sub322]

I voted for the original design because I followed the GTM through the development. I also think that
a design similar to the sketch is what I would love to build as a retirement project. And that is 398 days
away.

[subyrod]

But who's counting? haha
I voted for the original design because I followed the GTM through the development. I also think that
a design similar to the sketch is what I would love to build as a retirement project. And that is 398 days
away.

[DaFastOne]

I too tried to design a car similar to the one Factory5 idea of using a WRX boxster motor and drive tran was thinking using a old school porsche speedster as outward appearance to give a classic look yet a modern feel. But after seeing some of the sketches, i say something totally new and head turning.

[AC Bill]

I still think the FFR Spider was a real head turner. Too bad they junked it..
This is one that was for sale awhile back on FFCars. Very cool!
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i20/vacabob/P8190041.jpg

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i20/vacabob/P8160071-1.jpg

[THE ITALIAN]

Original
Another way for FF5 to put another car on the map,
not another duplicate.

[Rotr8]

^^^ true

[Johnny Suede]

I hope they go all original, modern design.

[Olimk2]

I vote new design as well but "revival" of an icon is nice too. The "new" ferrari P4/5 and stratos are cool...

[Rotr8]

personally I dont thing the P4/5 is all that good looking(with the exception of the dedicated track model) Jason Castriota's designs are definately forward thinking, time will tell whether they become trends or if they will ultimately be considered out in left field.

[Mintun]

A blank sheet of paper is a great opportunity. The design should be completely original, not derivative. Copies or variations of copies just scream kit car. I think Factory Five has earned it's way more to the manufacturer category. A stunning original design would make news at the auto shows and in the press. A copy won't. From a pure business point of view, an original design makes the most sense.
The contest is a brilliant idea and has already generated a lot of press. Maybe a vote on the finalists would also be a news making idea.

[South Dakobra]

Original
As a streetrod owner and musclecar guy, I enjoy going to a show and choosing a time period and fitting in with friends. I enjoy Good-Guys and Back to the Fifties and even the local shows. I like driving up and being classified as still older than a 1972.

[crackedcornish]

I voted original design

if I was leaning towards a Subaru powered replica it would be something along the lines of a Vintage Spyder S
http://vintagespyders.com/gallery/images/Vineyard_jpg.jpg
http://vintagespyders.com/media/images/mengine_jpg.jpg

[Olimk2]

http://www.carbodydesign.com/archive/2010/09/lancia-stratos-design-sketches/Lancia-Stratos-Design-Sketch-03-lg.jpg

For the new stratos fans...

[Piston Head]

#1 ... Original design.

[riptide motorsport]

Looks unanimous!!

[BrandonDrums]

Indeed!

[kach22i]

I'm pulling for a vintage period (near) replica of the Lancia Stratos, but it looks like I'm in the minority.
A bunch of Euro companies already doing that.

The company in California importing the Hawk has never gotten back to me, but it's only been 10 years - still time.:cool:

Now a Stratos/Hawk with a Targa top, that would be new.

[kach22i]

A blank sheet of paper is a great opportunity. The design should be completely original, not derivative. Copies or variations of copies just scream kit car. I think Factory Five has earned it's way more to the manufacturer category. A stunning original design would make news at the auto shows and in the press. A copy won't. From a pure business point of view, an original design makes the most sense.
The contest is a brilliant idea and has already generated a lot of press. Maybe a vote on the finalists would also be a news making idea.
Very well said, and I agree 100%.

No apologies for being just a kit car either.