About Westfield
Westfield is a British sports car manufacturer renowned for producing lightweight, high-performance vehicles. The company was established in 1982 by Chris Smith in Kingswinford, England. Westfield's primary focus has been on creating cars inspired by the iconic Lotus Seven, originally designed by Lotus founder Colin Chapman in the 1950s.
History of Westfield:
Lotus Seven Connection: Westfield gained recognition for its continuation and development of the Lotus Seven concept. The Lotus Seven was a lightweight, minimalist sports car known for its agility and driving experience.
Replica and Development: Westfield started by manufacturing replicas of the Lotus Seven, utilizing Chapman's design ethos of simplicity, lightweight, and exceptional handling. Over time, they evolved the concept, improving performance, safety, and introducing their own innovations.
Notable Models and Innovations:
Westfield SEi (1982): The company's early model was a faithful reproduction of the Lotus Seven, capturing the essence of the original design.
Westfield SEight (1996): This model featured a V8 engine and represented a departure from the traditional Lotus Seven design, showcasing Westfield's commitment to innovation.
Westfield XTR (2001): An example of the brand's pursuit of performance, the XTR was a more modern, radical interpretation of the sports car, featuring advanced aerodynamics and engineering.
Westfield Megabusa (2006): Combining a Westfield chassis with a Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle engine, this model was a lightweight, high-powered track-focused vehicle.
Westfield Sport Turbo (2015): A modern take on the classic design, offering improved performance and comfort while staying true to the company's lightweight philosophy.
Contribution to Motorsport and Customization:
Motorsport Success: Westfield cars have been successful in various motorsport events and racing championships, showcasing their performance and agility on the track.
Customization Options: The company offers extensive customization options, allowing buyers to tailor their cars to specific preferences, whether for road use, track days, or racing competitions.
Legacy and Current Status:
Westfield's dedication to the Lotus Seven heritage and their commitment to lightweight, high-performance sports cars have made them a respected name in the automotive enthusiast community. However, like many niche manufacturers, they faced challenges due to evolving regulations and market demands.
In 2006, Westfield was acquired by Potenza Sports Cars, and the brand continued to produce a range of models, focusing on both road-legal and track-oriented vehicles.
Westfield's legacy lies in their ability to offer drivers an exhilarating driving experience reminiscent of the iconic Lotus Seven while adapting to modern engineering standards and customer demands. Their cars are appreciated for their agility, performance, and adherence to the principles of lightweight design.