Hi, Im new, Whats the experience like at the Westfield Factory?

[Deadonkey]

Hi,

Im looking to get into a Lotus 7 rep, Westfields have a good name and a new kit is just about in my price range,

Ive always enjoyed hot hatches but since getting into motorcycling its kind of ruined cars for me now. The feeling of speed just isnt there like it was. 

I want something more raw and open. plus ive never had anything RWD and that appeals.

Anyway, the idea of building a car has always interested me, but I need to drive some cars, Im open to just about every westfield from the bike engined cars to the S2000. but its hard for me to decide as even a low bhp i would imagine would feel fast due to the cars weight.

I need to drive a few to decide what I want, And I was wondering what other people found in respect of visiting the factory. As far as I can tell there is no other way to test drive these cars. 

 

[Andy (Sycho)]

You will get great insight to what they sell & what it's all about at the factory but unfortunately these days they will not have a choice of cars to drive.

You best bet is to get along to your local meet to get some passenger rides & have a chat to see what your after.

 

[Kingster]

As a biker for many many years I can say that (for me) a Westy is the way to go if you want to get something that will deliver as much fun as a bike. But different.

Where are you based? As Andy said, get out and meet some local owners who will no doubt be keen to extol the virtues of their cars and give you an insight.

[Deadonkey]

I kind of thought they wouldnt have a demonstrator of each model in their range.

 

[Steve Smith - Joint Hampshire & IOW AO]

I went up to the factory in July and I believe they only had one car. That was the 2 litre Zetec with throttle bodies. Where are you based.

[BugMan]

Have to say the factory is a "bit Scruffy", depending on what you are expecting as it is a small outfit.  However I had a great time every time I "pop'd in" while travelling on business, after just dropping Simon an eMail to see if it was OK.  The guys doing the assembly work, and in fact everybody was really friendly, and they allowed me to ask questions and advice and take loads of pic;s

They had a couple of cars, including a Sport 250 on my last visit, but TBH you would be better off finding your local group, and going along to the next meeting.  If its like my local group, you will be well received, get lots of good advice, and most likely get a ride in somebodies car.

Where are you located?

Have a look in the "local events" section, or just let us know where you are and I'm sure somebody will put you in touch with the local organiser.

I'm an Ex biker also, so sort of know where you are coming from, but think once you have a ride in one, your mind will be changed.  I once did a Lotus7 experience at an F1 GP event (Caterham I think) and it blew my mind, and that was 15 odd years ago.

[Deadonkey]

Im based in carlisle, cumbria.

How do i find my local group, there doesnt seem to be a section on the forum.

Also i never thought of looking for sn experience day. That is a great idea, find an experience track day in a 7 type car.

[Insuranceman]

I was at the factory last Monday to go over the extras for my module 3 for my FW. We were shown around by Judy Dyson. There where a few cars being built. We sat in the demonstartor which is a blue FW but there is only one.

[Kingster]

27 minutes ago, Deadonkey said:

Im based in carlisle, cumbria.

How do i find my local group, there doesnt seem to be a section on the forum.

Also i never thought of looking for sn experience day. That is a great idea, find an experience track day in a 7 type car.

I’m possibly your nearest “local” Area Organiser, based in Newcastle and there’s groups to your south in Lancashire. 

Check the member map section of the forum although full access is for members only. http://forum.wscc.co.uk/forum/membermap/

Not sure about experience days but happy to talk about Westfields until the cows come home!

[Kingster]

Or here http://www.wscc.co.uk/areamap.htm

[SootySport]

Start with a factory tour to see cars being built and the models and kits available, they are very informal so a good chance to ask lots of questions.   Simon Westwood is the man to ask by phone or Email and he'll arrange something for you.    Demonstrator cars are available but a bit hit and miss which ones are available but you'll soon find out if a Westfield is type of motor you will want.

Experience Days are organised by the  factory but not now as it's out of season.   There will be a calendar of events early next year and they will be listed as 'Gift Ideas' on the Parts website.

You are not tied to any club area, go to any meets/events/trackdays you like in any area you can travel to.  You'll find plenty of members telling you about their own Westfield story offering you passenger rides (on the track as well).    It's getting a little colder now but those guys up North are a Hardy bunch, nothing stops them going out for Sunday blast in the countryside and if you tag along, thermals and waterproofs are a must.

All the above advice will help you decide on which model Westfield will suit you and which type of engine & power you want.    Good luck.

[stephenh]

I think you would find a visit to the factory very informative. Personally I wouldn't call it scruffy, but it is a small operation by the standards of car manufacture, so don't expect to see anything remotely like a production line, more like a very large garage/repair shop.

If you are serious about exploring the possibility of buying a new car, either factory built or as a kit, then you really must go and visit the factory, preferably by prior appointment.

If you think you might be interested in a second hand car, but don't know what sort of spec to look for, then a trip to see one or two cars at a local area meet is essential.

For factory visits, you need to contact the sales manager who is Simon Westwood. Either he or Judy Dyson would be happy to show you round, and explain the different specs currently offered, and the different kit options.