Sylva Leader 400

My first Sylva Leader was the one you see in the pictures opposite. Based on the history I had for the car it was originally part built by Sylva Autokits, for a Doctor Wilson of London. The car featured Vauxhall Firenza running gear with a 1256cc OHV engine. As can be seen the inlet manifold is unique but seems to work, I guess that there was a cam in there as well as she seemed to pick up her feet at about 4000 rpm.

This is my latest project that is nearing completion. This is one of the last Leaders and is known as a Sylva Leader 400        This particular one features a Fiat 1600cc twin cam with a matching rear wheel drive 5 speed gearbox from a 132. As can be seen the engine is fitted with a pair of Dellorto DHLA 40's, power is in the region of 135bhp, which in a car that weights only 630kilo's gives a power to weight ratio of about 200 bhp per ton, not to be sneezed at you will agree.        The front suspension is by double wishbones with GAZ adjustable coil overs with 225lb springs, brakes are standard Opel Ascona twin pots and solid disks. The rear axle is from a Chevette (I think) with a ratio of about 3.89:1 and features Spax adjustable dampers.        As you can see I have reduced the height of the windscreen to make it into a deflector, I have re-trimmed the interior using Triumph/Smiths instruments new carpets and new seats. I am pleased to say that I am very happy with it.

As you can see I eventually painted the car in black.

This car as found

Since the pictures were taken I have had the car repainted by a professional. in a similar colour from Citreon. I have also fitted a Caterham stainless steel exhaust to fit in an attempt to reduce the noise levels from 114Db

The Last Picture