Kit cars have come a long way since bursting on the scene in the 1960s. Many of these easy-to-assemble models, like the 1975 Sterling kit car recently sold on eBay, were based on dropping a lightweight and stylish fiberglass body on a Volkswagen Beetle platform. But the Sterling stands apart for its striking looks.
As the trend continued and technology improved, kit car manufacturers began rolling out more sophisticated designs, incorporating lightweight and strong tubular frames supporting streamlined bodies.
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By the mid-1970s and ‘80s, models like this Sterling had upped the ante with additional features and creature comforts to accompany their cutting-edge designs. Somewhere along the way, manufacturers moved away from using the term kit car in favor of the somewhat more flattering component car.
Cross-Pond Collaboration
Originally a British design, the Sterling kit car was first produced in England under the name Nova. The name change to Sterling in the United States avoided ruffling any feathers at General Motors, which already enjoyed some success with the Chevrolet Nova - opens in new window or tab.. Sales took off after a favorable 1973 feature in Car and Driver magazine, and the stateside Sterling was off and running.
Like most US-spec Sterlings, the one sold on eBay was not produced in an owner’s garage. Instead, It was professionally assembled by California Concept Cars (CCC), a respected fabricator and custom shop in the San Francisco Bay area.
CCC has a reputation for producing quality products and being passionate about the Sterling brand. The company worked closely with owners to help them realize their dreams. Word of the company’s skill and passion spread, and CCC became the primary source for US Sterlings. Some 875 units emerged from the CCC shop over roughly five years.
Sterling Style
In addition to eye-catching styling, the Sterling kit car had high-tech features, like a powered canopy top that provided weather protection while making cockpit access easier. Controlled by a remote control fob, the entire electric top lifts and moves forward out of the way. Other features include electrically operated pop-up headlights, LED tail lights - opens in new window or tab., and a front suspension with disc brakes sourced from a Volkswagen Karmann Ghia - opens in new window or tab..
Power comes from an air-cooled Volkswagen engine - opens in new window or tab. mounted in the rear and matched with a four-speed manual transmission. A lightweight and robust powertrain with plenty of power for the lightweight Sterling, it’s easy to work on and reliable. VW Beetle parts - opens in new window or tab. remain readily available on eBay.
The minimalist interior features seating for two in racing-style seats with competition harnesses - opens in new window or tab., right-hand drive, full instrumentation housed in a carbon fiber-look panel, and a remote control stereo mounted in front of the passenger.
If you’ve been looking for something a little different for the local cars and coffee, this unique Sterling kit car could be just the ticket. With an enthusiastic group of devotees and member websites - opens in new window or tab. devoted to Sterling cars, a ready community is waiting to welcome its newest member.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.