[humbug]

Another idea, which would (maybe) increase the capacity and probably be easier fabrication-wise (bit more expensive as you would need the back end of 2 MX5s...)

- leave the "front" bumper on (could get rid of the internal supports, tow hooks, fog light, etc.)
- put orange reflectors on the front, red on the rear
- remove the "front" lights and smooth in what was the number plate panel and light area
- join up the two back ends with some internal bracing, then join the outer panels (might need to add a strip between the two boot hing sides and adjust the inside of the boots as before e.g. drop the floor into the exhaust box area, remove panels between the two boots
- A bar or T bar through front bumper to the towing cup

Looks neat!

 

[humbug]

Ooh this looks interesting. Personally I like the idea of incorporating the nose cone if you can blend it while continuing the curve of the nose and not having a big angle. How about welding back the rear third of the doors to the rear body and filling the gap, then you could have the sides looking more like the belong. then cut off at an angle to suit. Then you could panel in between the nose and the rest with minimum curvature necessary.

What are you going to do with what was the rear shelf area? Could you saw off the fuel tank hump and have a flat floor area? Maybe cut through to the original boot area to increase space, if it wouldn't weaken the structure too much?

Or, a bit off the wall here, have a section between the nose and the body hinging so it flips forward (to upright or whatever). Add a flat top with a turned over edge to fit over and round the original rear edge of the shelf area (i.e. where the soft top used to join the body) and make that hinge backwards. A gas strut or two and Robert's your mum's brother. Make on or both of the refitting door bits (as above) rear hinged instead of welded in. Final bit: panel out the rear shelf area and fit it with seat padding and a wraparound backrest, then you've got somewhere to sit when you go for a picnic, etc.

Or, final final idea: as above, but fit some small steering scooter wheels that aren't visible because what was the rear of the seat floor, add a steering column, put a small motorbike engine and tank in the boot, and IVA it like an Edd China-mobile? http://www.cummfybanana.com/

OK, I'm done.

Simon

 

[humbug]

Use the front end and have under the bonnet as boot space.

1 - There's more of it.
2 - It'll scare the shit out of people.

Figure out a way to put pop up headlamps as reverse lights too and have mega brownie points.

Great idea! You could put just indicators and red bulb stop lights behind the the front indicator/sidelight lense, and have tail lights, reversing lights and fog lights in the popups! (or put the tail lights in the indicator/sides as well). Then it would look just like there was a car driving at you the wrong way (though I suppose you would have to put some triangular reflectors on there somewhere to be properly legal).