Hello Bart,
I will try not to hi-jack your thread, but I am sort of in the same boat. I do not have a body, but I want the most authentic body available, and I wan’t to build a MK2. As your research suggests, the two main contenders are Southern(AK) or Tornado.
Tornado states:
The TSC GT40 body shell is available in both MK1 and MKII versions and both are exact reproductions of the original GT40 which dominated Le Mans during the late 1960's. They are so authentic that panels have been used during the restoration of original cars. |
So would this mean that your original clams would fit a Tornado chassis? I don’t know.
I would also like the most “Authentic” chassis. Meaning I want it to handle like a real GT40, and not have a modern redesigned suspension like an RCR. Mine would be used 90% on track.
As far as I can tell, the AK uses rear hub cast from an original GT40, and AK seem very serious about continuing the development of the Southern GT car. I get the impression that the AK has a more capable chassis, but I might be wrong or biased from seeing Tornados from yesteryear with Essex v6’s and Granada uprights.
in any case, I am considering if you could combine the kits, Tornado body and AK chassis, with some grinding and welding. I know others are strengthening and modifying their chassis anyway, when they get them.
I hope there are some Southern/AK/Tornado owners/builders who can help out with their wealth of knowledge.
Thanks