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I am not sure if I want to build a book frame or a 442 frame? I plan on using a Miata donor and subframe.

Does either one have an advantage or disadvantage? I am a bigger guy. 6'2 220lbs. I do have an Elise so I am use to cramped footwells etc.

I fabbed up my build table today so it is offical. I am starting my Locost project. The issue is which frame to build?

Thanks

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06 Lotus Elise (track pack, LSD)

Only you can answer that, but I'll give a nod to the +442. That's what I'm building. If you're a first time builder like me, having the extra room will make things easier, I think. Less issues squeezing everything in.

The rear end fits the +442 just fine. It's a bit tight just inside the rear tires, but can be made to fit.

-dave "disclaimer...mine's not done yet...I could be wrong" hempy

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...nowadays people are so intellectually lazy and lethargic that they can't build ANYTHING with their hands. They'll spend hours watching whiny people marooned on an island, but won't spend a second adding anything to the world. -weconway
Visit my [Locost 7 build log]

As I think I've mentioned before, I like the book frame. I try to keep it as small as possible

I'm 6'1", although I'm more along the line of 155-160lbs. Using a Miata engine, you might be able to squeeze a 18" wide seat on the driver's side and a 17" on the passenger's. I'm using a 15.5 for the driver, and a 14.5 for the passenger. The legroom is meh, but I have particularly long legs, so my knees end in the dash no matter what I drive... Except my Mini (but I have the rear seats removed and the front seats all the way back).

It all comes to person preference, but one thing I mentioned to someone else was that if using a 442, and am building around the Miata subframe, you may have issues with clearance between the outside of the cabin and the rear wheel. I have the book frame with the Miata subframe, and I have about 3" clearance between my 15x10's and the wall. That is using 5" of backspacing, and I have stretched 225/50/ZR15's on there. With a 275/35/15 Hoosier slick, I am going to be looking more towards 1.5" clearance maybe. With a wider frame, I suspect you will either need to lower the backspacing down to something like 3" (I dunno if that's a good thing...), or buy spacers. Either route may be harsh on the bearings, but in all reality I doubt you'll be putting 150k miles on it, so you should be good... unless you are using bearings that already have 150k miles on them.

i think pistures of a +4, 442, and book frame would seriously help out. completed pictures obviously would be best...

as i am having the same problem choosing between the three. wider (to me) just looks better in most any car. comparing all three would be a good way to decide...

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Plans: Single Rotor turbo sub 1000lb machine!

I really appreciate the detailed responses on the frames. I have been amazed at the amount of information the members of this forum are willing to share. It is comforting to know that either way I go I should be fine.

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06 Lotus Elise (track pack, LSD)