Words: Charlie Thomas
Back in the ‘60s, there were few places more glamorous than Saint-Tropez. The combination of stunning scenery, a quaint port and the fact it was relatively untouched was unbeatable, perfect for those after a peaceful escape. As time moved on though, more and more flocked to the riviera town and eventually, the romance was lost. Saint-Tropez became a money-making machine that was all things to all people, losing the special ingredients that made it so unique in the first place. Whilst it’s not entirely the same, this very principle can be applied to the world of exotic supercars.
The fun of driving is somewhat lost on the modern automobile. High-performance machines have a tendency to feel muted thanks to increased restrictions on design, engine output and emissions, meaning the end result is often fast yet lacking in emotional stimulation.
Another reason for this is that modern supercars are built by marques who want to please all in order to drive sales and increase revenue. Whilst there is undoubtedly an abundance of state-of-the-art tech involved and more high quality materials used than ever, something isn’t quite right. Many contemporary supercars have, similarly to Saint-Tropez, lost what it was that originally made them special. Independent British marque, Briggs Automotive Company (BAC) are changing all of this, however.
BAC produces one car only; the Mono. For one, the Mono is manufactured entirely in Britain, itself an achievement that should be celebrated. Calling Liverpool home, the privately owned company currently builds just 12 cars a year, and there’s a reason for this. Every single detail, from the angular carbon fibre intakes to individual bolts on the engine, have been executed meticulously, resulting in a car that feels incredibly special. For proof, look no further than this video.
Upon first glance, the Mono quite literally appears as a race car for the road. Indeed, it’s about as close as us mere mortals could get to driving a Formula One car and the fully-adjustable pushrod suspension certainly alludes to the fact it’s been born from the mould of a car best suited to the circuit. The BAC Mono is more than just lap times though. It’s about fun and the pure, unadulterated thrill of driving.
Part of the ‘fun’ factor comes from the fact it’s incredibly light and quick. For 2016, the car’s been updated, now weighing in at just 580kg – a feat achievable by the predominant use of carbon fibre, and the fact it lacks a roof. And a windscreen. The new 2.5-litre Mountune four-cylinder engine is the heart and soul of the car, producing a whopping 305bhp. This gives a power-to-weight ratio of 526bhp per tonne which, as a point of reference, is more than a Bugatti Veyron.
What makes the Mono truly special is its focus. A single seater, the driver is placed directly in the middle of the car, meaning the experience is perhaps the most unique available on the road. For 2016, each car will be fitted around each prospective driver too, resulting in a bespoke seat and individual steering wheel for optimal comfort. Speaking of the steering wheel, just admire it for a second.
Attesting to the Mono’s ability to excite is yacht chartering firm, Camper & Nicholsons, who’ve collaborated with BAC to create a custom Marine Edition Monaco iteration. Although it boasts the same performance figures as the standard car, the Marine Edition is designed for a life on board a superyacht, and as such comes complete with anti-corrosion components, a propriety lifting system for ease of movement as well as a bespoke interior option.
Unlike many performance cars out there, the BAC Mono is definitely not all things to all people. It’s hideously impractical, you are advised to wear a helmet above speeds of 60mph and if it rains, you can forget turning up to your destination in (dry) style. What it is though is one of the most exciting cars ever; a speed demon, and one that has been blessed with a truly innovative design and executed with an incredible attention to detail. The wifes/partners of BAC Mono owners must be some of the most suspicious people on Earth, until they look in the garage and realise their husbands aren’t off gallivanting with a mistress on weekends; they’re behind the wheel this 180mph masterpiece.
For more information on BAC, click here.
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