25 Jul 08 10:50
Video: Toyota Aygo Crazy
Toyota has created a one-off supercar-style Aygo city car for the British Motor Show - and it is actually drivable despite its much-modified body.
The Aygo Crazy has received Toyota's 1.8-litre VVT engine (as in the end-of-line Celica, MR2 and Lotus Elise) - in its tail end, driving the rear wheels via an MR2 gearbox.
This engine has been turbocharged by Toyota Motorsport to give 200bhp and 177lb-ft of torque. Further modifications include a bespoke cooling system, a large front-mounted aluminium radiator and a suspension system taken from the MR2, with added adjustable dampers. The Aygo Crazy has a track one inch wider than that of the standard car, and it sits on 17" alloys with 225/45 Goodyear tyres.
The bodywork has been inspired by that of Group B rally cars, and the stripped-out cabin features bespoke seats with four-point safety harnesses and a full roll cage. The carbon fibre rear wing is borrowed from Toyota's 200mph American Champ Car racers, and the whole thing is finished off with special Aygo Crazy logos, just in case you didn't get the gist.
Power steering, anti-lock brakes and other electronic aids have been removed to give an old-school, purist handling feel, although the Aygo Crazy still weighs in at 1,050kg. It can do an estimated 127mph, but Toyota says: 'Speed is not its defining quality. This is a machine that exists to be responsive and alive to the driver's commands.'
Sadly, the Aygo Crazy does not preview a production possibility, but it can be seen in action at motor shows and events this summer.
Check out the rest of our British Motor Show coverage.
