NZ built vehicles: Fraser 7

Welcome to another write up about a great New Zealand made car. This time, I am writing about the light and low Fraser 7 sports car.

Fraser Cars was founded in 1988 by Neil Fraser in Auckland. The company was founded after Neil was impressed with the performance of the original Lotus 7's and decided he would try his hand at building them. The result was three initial orders and now there are over 330 Fraser's throughout New Zealand and the world.

The Fraser company was bought in 2006 by Scott and Ida Tristram after Scott had worked there as a chassis builder for years. Fraser can build a Lotus 7 replica to any specification you like or can supply a comprehensive kit if you wish to build one yourself. The company employs 5 full time staff that engineer and build these fabulous cars. The cars are constructed out of a tubular chassis with a painstakingly made, hand formed aluminium body. Power is provided by any engine you could fit under the low bonnet but is usually supplied via the legendary 16 valve Twin Cam 1.6 litre Toyota 4AGE. This powertrain is incredibly reliable, lightweight and flexible throughout the rev range. People have also utilised Mazda rotary engines to power their 7's which must mean that they absolutely fly!

Overall, the Fraser 7 is an incredibly faithful and improved reproduction of the original Lotus Seven. The Fraser is another great example of awesome Kiwi car building that has become a rather successful business.

Thanks for reading and stay tuned for more cool car stuff!!!

Photo Credit: Fraser Cars NZ