Driving a Hummer is both impractical and a bit unfair to the environment, unless, of course, you’re a soldier. Nevertheless, there is something to this bulky vehicle that makes it a rather desirable possession. Well, if you’re sure you must own a Hummer, one way to fulfil this dream is to build a reduced-size replica. At least that’s what John Walters from Newport, Wales did.
When I spotted his car listed for sale on eBay for £5,500, I just had to call him and ask questions. John told me that kit-cars is his hobby. He’s currently building a gypsy caravan.
The Hummer replica is based on a Volkswagen. It’s powered by a Remtec 1600 engine – a popular choice among the kit-car builders. It took 3 years to build the Hummer and although it’s been an enjoyable experience – here’s an advice for any wannabe kit-car builders from a person who’s been through all the various stages of the project:
“Have twice as much space as you think you’ll need and plan for twice as much time to complete the project!”
Britain is a good place for a kit-car builder. John tells me that it wasn’t difficult to make the vehicle road-legal. You strip the donor car, and as long as you don’t alter the chassis and follow all the DVLA guidelines, you should be able to make the new vehicle road-legal without a hitch.
Then it’s a trip to your local MOT garage – and you’re guaranteed to make their day because they don’t get to see kit-cars every day!
The Hummer’s body is unique. It’s not going to rust because it’s… yes, a timber and ply construction.
It’s been sealed and had 6 coats of paint but it is suggested that the car needs to be repainted in 5-6 years depending on where it’s kept to make sure the bodywork is kept in a good nick.
This is not the first time a wooden Hummer replica has been attempted. Back in 2011 there was this monstrosity listed on eBay.
It finally went for $3,350 mainly due to the fact it had over 260,000 miles on the clock! Eek!
It was built on a 1990s Chevrolet S10 chassis and powered by a V-6 engine.
In my opinion the Hummer built by John Walters does a much better way of conveying the original Hummer’s features.
He has managed to capture the vehicles rugged charm, whereas the Chevy version is just a wooden box, really…
Finally, if you fancy something not made of wood, you can always get yourself a Hummer replica golf cart.
This kit is likely to cost you around $20,000.
Although if you’re looking to impress your golfing friends Hyacinth Bucket’s-style, this is a much better shot than trying to wrestle with local thugs. This golf cart is pretty advanced. It’s a fully-functional all-wheel drive, powered by a 20bhp-stron V-Twin Honda engine.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HiOlXABsFY
