Comparison of the new CAV-CSX

[computerworks]

A lot has been discussed about the new CAV-CSX cars from SAI.

I thought I would gather all the snipets into one place for reference. The following was posted over the last few weeks by Brent from SAI:

Design Notes
- The differential will be identical to the current product in fact it will be supplied by SAI through our current resources.
- We are looking at the 8.8" Ford with CVs in place of half shafts but feel that through quantity we can get the original diff down to an affordable level.
- The uprights as well as upper and lower control arms are interchangeable with the originals which quite honestly means current owners of CSX4000 Cobras can upgrade to the new suspension.
- The only change to control arms is the front upper design that was changed to accommodate an improved ball joint design.
- The frame itself has not changed from the original configuration.
- The body is built to the same data as the original although we have made it symmetrical from left to right.

Pricing and Specifications
The CSX4000 at $39,995.00 comes complete with radiator, coolant tubes, batteries, wheels, tires, paint complete (stripes are optional), interior complete, diff, half shafts, brakes, suspension, 20 gal fuel cell (42 is still an option) and fuel system complete.
The oil cooler and fans are standard on the CSX4000


What are the differences?
The CAV CSX cars have the following changes from the standard:

-Aluminum Uprights, Front & Rear
-Upper Control Arm Configuration, Front
-Adjustable Pedal Position (same box with 1" of adjustment)
-Lowered Seat Position (same basic seat design lowered by 2")


Last night, pictures of the "first piece" were supplied by SAI and posted. I cropped together similar views of the current "Las Vegas" car for comparison...

Body Shape



Nose View



Front Engine Compartment



Front Suspension



...showing the new Upper Control Arm and Ball Joint.

Hope this further helps those with questions on the comparison.

[ToyCollector]

Ron, why does the rear suspension look so "unloaded" in these pics? Almost looks like there is a floor jack propping it up.

[computerworks]

I don't think the rear adjustments get "dialed in" until the drivetrain is installed.

[mr bruce]

Very interesting. 2 points" the LV cars were unpainted with raw bodies, final finish by dealers/owners. The CAV cars are fully finished, minus motor/trans, at a lower price point. I'd like to see the front roll center numbers, it appears as though the front spindle is taller(look where the upper ball joint is possitioned).Can we assume this was a performance modification, along with a manufacturing difference?

[Jamo]

Excellent job, Ron.

[Years Ago]

Mr. Bruce, Fully Painted rollers are and have been available throug SAI for the past year or so. Since long before I retired in the spring of 2002.

[Jamo]

Hello Wayne

[Years Ago]

Thanks Ron, for taking the time. People should keep in mind however, the CAV shown is a fully prepared roller, The LV CSX4000 (who ever though we would be using that designation) is not a completed roller. When ordered as painted rollers, both are completed to the same state, same equipment.

[mr bruce]

Could you please elaborate on the LV rollers, price wise. If my memory is correct, the bare roller was in the $42k price range? With finish and paint, the price was considerably higher. The CAV cars are the deal to go with at $39K. Could you also comment on the possibility of a "kit", for the home builder, after all ,the opponent of one of the suits is selling 15 cars a week. If you folks go after that end of the market, you could capture that segment in minutes.

[Specialk]

Bruce,

I don't think the geometry has been changed. The CAV cars do use screw in ball joints, that may be giving you the perception that the height has changed.

[mr bruce]

K-Man, nope ,look at the CAV car, the screw in ball joint has it's pivot in about the center of the ring it screws into. The LV car has the pivot below the top control arm. If the inner control arm mounts are both in the same possition, the spindle is taller on the CAV car. Question is , was this done to change the handleing?

[REAL 1]

Ron: Good job. Thanks for the info.

Looks like a nice quality car.

Great buy.

[bmalone]

THanks Ron for putting much of the info in ONE place. You know, my attention span is not that long--perfect.