,
The Aurora sits on an “SLA” wishbone suspension configuration, which is a vast improvement over the original 65 Shelby CSX2000’s transverse leaf spring set up. This is combined with Bilstein coilovers holding spring rates of 200in/lbs all around. I can definitely attest to the body roll and floating feeling that I have while trying to maneuver this beast through an autocross course because of the soft wheel rate frequency. The rear differential is a Salisbury limited slip from an early 80’s Jaguar that resides between the tubular control arms and offset coilovers.
Seven years later after the wounds have healed and the fiberglass and rear end damage has been repaired, I am now the proud and sole owner of the Aurora. So the rebuild begins. The plans for the car are to keep it as a well balanced street/weekend auto cross build that stays true to its domestic roots while integrating modern technology and engineering for a more reliable and safe vehicle, emphasis on the safety portion!
Although there is a lot of work still to be done to this car, much of which is in basic maintenance and cosmetics, it won't take much to get the car running again. Basically this car can be compared to putting together a puzzle, all the pieces are there but it is just figuring out how to make it all fit back together again that is going to be the tough part. It's not a lie that blood, sweat, and tears have already gone into this car and I know that it will become something truly spectacular, so stay tuned for more updates as the progress continues!
8 comments
Ashley, whatever happened with the restoration of this beautiful Aurora Mark II…?
Did you complete it? Do you still own the car? Can you post an update?
Good Afternoon, Great story, would love to see the end result, I am lucky enough to have one of the unfinished Aurora’s, I was told that it was one of two left over when the company stopped making them and the previous owner was the gentleman who manufactured the “Rotus” the Lotus Super7. replica., bought it from the remains of the company… I cannot wait to get started on mine, but have a 1966 MGBGT to finish first…. best wishes.
David – do you still have the Aurora Cobra ?
thanks
-Gianni
Hi GIANNI, my apologies, I haven’t looked at this site for years!! Yes, I still have the Aurora, still waiting to be done, about to move it from one storage to another so I will try to answer the other question about how it is labelled, thanks
If you purchased an unfinished or parts Aurora car, did it have a solid rear axle or the Jaguar unit? Was it badged as an Aurora or ?
Thanks, Ian
Hi Ian, very late reply, it has no badges at all and it has the Jaguar rear end…
Hello from Hamburg,
we are busy to overhaul axles on Aurora Cobra #158. We do have massive problems to find correct bushes for the rear SLA suspension. Can anyone help and knows where they come from. Every information is welcome.
Best regards
Frank
frank.schauer@morganpark.de
Hey Frank I am building an unfinished from the factory Aurora. I also couldn’t find replacement control arm bushings. I found bushings from Energy suspension that are very close to original dimensions. I ordered them and am waiting for them to get delivered. They are special order and come in bulk. the details are…. bulk-2044 $4 each total of 32. bulk-15.10.13.39 $6.50 each total of 16. This is for the rear control arms only. Hope this helps Regards Randy