Nichols Cars made a significant entrance at this year’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Their USA debut introduced the Nichols N1A ICON 88. This car is the result of decades of motorsport experience. It blends classic Can-Am racing heritage with modern materials and engineering. This debut highlights a new era for bespoke performance cars. The N1A is a true driver’s car. It prioritizes immersion and an emotional connection to the road. This new car is an incredible tribute to a racing legend.
Honoring a Racing Legacy with the Nichols N1A
The Nichols N1A ICON 88 is a special machine. Only 15 of these launch-series models will ever be made. Each one commemorates a specific victory from the McLaren MP4/4. This was one of the most dominant Formula One cars in history. It was designed by Nichols Cars founder Steve Nichols in 1988. The car was driven to greatness by Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost. Nichols himself served as an Honorary Judge at Pebble Beach. His keen eye for detail was perfect for the Concours entries.
The N1A’s Engineering and Design
The N1A takes design inspiration from the classic McLaren M1A of the 1960s. Its flowing silhouette captures that early racing spirit. The body is made from Formula One-grade, graphene-infused carbon fiber. This material gives it exceptional rigidity at a very low weight. Aerodynamic development in a wind tunnel has created a perfect balance of drag and downforce. The top-specification N1A weighs just 900 kilograms. This delivers an incredible power-to-weight ratio. The car’s power comes from a hand-built, 7.0-liter naturally aspirated V8. It produces 650 bhp.
High-Performance Powertrain and Suspension
The remarkable V8 engine is a powerful heart for the N1A. It is developed from a GM LS3 block. This engine is extensively re-engineered. It features steel liners and custom pistons. A dry sump system and drive-by-wire throttle bodies are also included. All of this helps the engine produce an impressive 650 bhp. Power is sent to the rear wheels. It goes through a Nichols-developed six-speed manual gearbox. This gearbox was chosen for its precision. It provides a real mechanical connection for the driver. The chassis uses decades of motorsport expertise. It has an independent suspension with double wishbones and anti-roll bars. Motorsport-derived brakes provide powerful stopping. All these components work in perfect harmony.
A Pure and Engaging Driving Experience
The N1A offers an unfiltered, analog driving experience. Its handling is sharp and responsive. The car rides on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. They are mounted on staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels. The cockpit is minimalist, like a true racing car. The seating position recalls the McLaren MP4/4. Inside, the Senna-inspired gear knob and classic analog dials create a motorsport connection. Upholstery is crafted from top-grade leather. The driver aids are limited. This maintains the purity of the experience. Traction control is standard. ABS and power steering are available as options.
Founded in 2017, Nichols Cars aims to build a true driver’s car. Total production of the N1A is capped at 100 cars worldwide. The first 15 cars are the ICON 88 series. This makes the N1A one of the most exclusive British performance cars of the decade. The ICON 88’s appearance at Pebble Beach was a highlight. It was a true celebration of design, performance, and a remarkable career in motor racing.
Disclaimer: This vehicle is an exclusive, limited-production performance car.
Source: Nichols Cars Ltd
