For those seeking the ultimate street-legal formula race car experience, look no further than the BAC Mono. Since its debut in 2012, this single-seat roadster has been pushing boundaries, now in its second generation. Recently, Jay Leno had the chance to explore the car firsthand, joined by BAC co-founder Ian Briggs, who provided insights into its design and performance.
Hailing from Liverpool, England, BAC was established by brothers Ian and Neill Briggs. The latest iteration of their creation boasts a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine, delivering 315 hp as standard and 343 hp in Mono R configuration. Paired with a 6-speed sequential transmission, the mid-mounted engine propels the rear-wheel-drive Mono with exhilarating precision.
Despite its modest power output, the Mono’s featherweight design, weighing less than 1,300 pounds results in a power-to-weight ratio that surpasses even the most esteemed hypercars on the market.
This translates to blistering lap times on racetracks, showcasing its dominance on the asphalt. Yet, achieving road legality was no easy feat for the Briggs brothers, particularly navigating the stringent pedestrian crash safety standards while preserving the car’s distinctive design.
In the U.S., pricing for the Mono begins at around $300,000 for the base model, with the lighter, more potent Mono R commanding a tag of $335,000. For Mono owners eager to take their machines to the track, BAC has exciting plans for a one-make series centered around the Mono. Initially launching in West Asia, including the renowned Formula 1 circuit, the series promises adrenaline-fueled competition.
With its potential success, expansion to other regions remains a possibility. Leno concludes the experience by taking the Mono R for a thrilling spin along California’s canyon roads, offering firsthand insights into its exhilarating performance.
