The Ariel Atom purpose-built track car created a sensation when it hit the streets in the late 1990s. Moreover, it spawned its own segment of stripped-down track cars that ditched nearly every piece of hardware not needed to make the car stop, go, and turn. The segment now boasts a roster that includes the KTM X-Bow, the Palatov D2, and the BAC Mono. The first example of the Mono assembled in North America, in 2011, is now available for purchase on eBay.
While these pocket rockets proved to be popular in Europe, their accessibility in the United States is another story. The Ariel Atom wasn’t approved for sale in America until 2006—nearly a decade after it made its European debut. So, it’s understandable that the first of any of these cars to make landfall on Yankee shores is a rare thing.
While the BAC Mono may sport a few more body panels than the Ariel Atom, its performance is just as impressive. In fact, the Mono set the second-fastest Power Lap time in Top Gear history, only bested by the $1.5 million Pagani Huayra.
The Mono was designed in the U.K. by Briggs Automotive Company (BAC). This first one, now listed on eBay, was assembled by Sector 111, an outfit that develops and sells lightweight racers and related parts in Temecula, Calif.
Described by the seller as boasting “Formula 3-like performance,” the Mono is powered by 2.3-liter Cosworth four-cylinder motor that outputs 285 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. That may not sound like much, but considering the fact that the Mono weighs less than 1,200 pounds—about one-third the weight of a typical performance street car—its capability is astounding.
Sticking with the Formula car theme, the Mono features a single center-mounted seat. Gear changes are dispatched by a paddle-shifted Hewland six-speed sequential gearbox. All the car’s bodywork is built from carbon fiber, helping to keep the weight low, while maintaining a high level of safety for the driver. Despite its incredible capability and track-focused design, the BAC Mono is 100-percent street-legal.
This particular Mono is outfitted with two-way adjustable Sachs dampers, brake bias adjuster, and wears a brand new set of ultra-grippy Toyo R888 tires. This one might be even faster than the one Top Gear tested.
While this U.S.-spec BAC Mono’s $250,000 price tag might seem steep for an automobile with such a narrow scope of utility, it’s worth remembering that the next fastest car on that aforementioned Power Lap board costs six times as much. Put it in that context, and we’re sure your significant other will understand.
