Elfin MS8 Streamliner
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1959 |
| Founder | Garrie Cooper |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Products | Sports cars (e.g. Elfin MS8 Streamliner, Elfin MS7) |
The Elfin MS8 Streamliner represents a sports car model succeeding the Elfin MS7, which was powered by a Repco-Holden V8 engine. This predecessor gained recognition when founder Garrie Cooper secured victory in the 1975 Australian Sports Car Championship, and Stuart Kostera claimed the 1976 Australian Tourist Trophy behind its wheel.
Unveiled at the 2004 Melbourne International Motor Show, the MS8 was presented alongside some of the premier sports cars on the market. Plans anticipated UK sales beginning in mid-2007, with two vehicles already shipped to the UK for export assessment and a dedicated office set up in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire.
Design
The design of the Elfin MS8 Streamliner was developed by Elfin Sports Cars in collaboration with the Holden Design team, led by Styling Director Mike Simcoe.
On July 5, 2006, Elfin confirmed the commencement of MS8 Streamliner production. Despite delays caused by compliance with emissions and noise standards, the final production model maintained the same Holden-based mechanical components featured in the concept version.
Specification levels
The Streamliner is available in two configurations: a road-legal Roadster and a single-seat Racer intended exclusively for track use. Sales started in July 2006 with initial pricing at $119,990 for the Streamliner (now reduced to $99,990) and $98,990 for the Clubman (currently $84,990). Manufacturing is limited to a total of 100 units.
50th Anniversary Streamliner
A special edition run of five '50th Anniversary' Streamliners includes unique 'Garrie Cooper Gold' paintwork, a hardtop cabin, bonnet scoop, and burgundy interior accents. Designed by Mike Simcoe, one of these units is equipped with a supercharged 350 kW (660 Nm) V8 engine featuring performance enhancements from Walkinshaw Performance. Prices start at $128,500, with an additional $12,000 for the supercharged variant.
'No Fear' Streamliner
In 2008, Elfin introduced a unique promotional MS8 Streamliner branded for No Fear and retailed exclusively through K-Mart Australia. Created by HSV designer Adam Dean Smith, this model was displayed at both the 2008 Melbourne International Motor Show and the Australian Grand Prix.
Performance
Maximum speed: 275 km/h 400 m standing start: 13.7 seconds Acceleration (0–100 km/h): 5.3 seconds
Drivetrain
- 5.7-litre alloy V8 OHV engine with 16 valves
- Power output of 329 hp
- Six-speed transmission
- Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
Safety
- Traction control system
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- Cruise control functionality
Suspension
- Fully independent rear suspension featuring upper and lower wishbones plus toe link adjustment
- Front suspension equipped with upper and lower chrome moly unequal aerofoil wishbones
- Race-grade rose joints fully adjustable throughout
- Elfin-manufactured alloy uprights at front and rear allowing camber, caster, and toe adjustments
- Coil-over Koni shock absorbers adjustable for bump, rebound, and ride height
Brakes
- Slotted and ventilated four-wheel disc brakes; front discs measuring 32 mm
- Elfin billet-machined six-piston calipers at front
- Rear discs sized at 18 mm with integrated handbrake system
- Elfin billet-machined four-piston calipers at rear
Steering and Pedals
- Rack and pinion steering system featuring an adjustable column
- Alloy pedal assembly with full adjustability, including brake bias control
Wheels and Tyres
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Tyres sized 235/40
Construction
- Hand-built multitubular space frame assembled using precision jigs
- Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) body panels
Dimensions
- Overall Length
- Front Track Width
- Vehicle Width
- Rear Track Width
- Wheelbase Length
- Kerb Weight