As well as making replica kits of some of America’s greatest cars, Factory Five has also designed its own unique sports car, the 818. It’s available in roadster (818S), racing (818R), and coupe (818C) form, although it’s the coupe that’s arguably the most versatile option of the three (via Factory Five Racing). Like all of the company’s cars, the 818’s focus is on performance and handling, although it’s arguably one of the best-looking kit sports cars on the market, too. The 818 uses running gear from the Subaru Impreza/WRX, but a lightweight chassis and panels keep its curb weight down to just 1,800 pounds (818 kilograms, hence the name).
The kit costs $13,990 and Factory Five claims that, with a suitably cheap donor car, it’s possible to get the 818 on the road for less than $15,000. Many of the Impreza/WRX’s parts can be bolted straight onto the 818, including the front and rear spindles, steering rack, and pedal box. The Impreza’s stock engine also fits neatly into the 818’s engine bay, although builders looking for maximum performance can take advantage of the Subaru’s extensive aftermarket to squeeze every last bit of horsepower out of the trusty Boxer engine.