Noble is a British automaker that many may not be familiar with. The company is rather famous for building modern vehicles with extreme performance with none of the nannies and few of the safety systems you expect in a modern car. The goal is to create a decisively old-school performance vehicle.
Recently Noble revealed a new car called the M500 that sits beneath its flagship vehicle called the M600. The new M500 is described as being less extreme than its big brother while still maintaining a driver-focused experience. The vehicle promises excellent handling but with what Noble calls a less “visceral” driving experience than the M600.
Performance and Engineering
The M500 uses a power plant that we will be familiar with; the Ford 3.5-liter twin-turbo engine found sitting midship in the Ford GT. Reports indicate the engine will make about 550 horsepower and 600 pound-foot of torque. That should be plenty of power to make the M500 perform very well. Whereas the M600 uses carbon fiber bodywork, the M500 uses glass-reinforced composite bodywork wrapped over a steel tubular chassis. This choice of materials helps to keep costs down while still providing a robust and lightweight structure.
The M500’s engine is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, emphasizing the car’s old-school, driver-focused ethos. This setup is becoming increasingly rare in a market dominated by automatic and dual-clutch transmissions. The manual gearbox ensures that the driver remains fully engaged, providing a tactile and immersive driving experience.
Design and Features
In terms of design, the M500 retains the aggressive and aerodynamic styling that Noble is known for. The car features a low-slung profile, wide stance, and sharp lines that not only make it look fast but also aid in its aerodynamic efficiency. The front end is characterized by large air intakes that help cool the engine and brakes, while the rear features a prominent diffuser and twin exhaust outlets.
Inside, the M500 is expected to be relatively spartan compared to other supercars. The focus is on the essentials needed for driving, with minimal distractions. However, it will still offer some modern conveniences such as air conditioning and a basic infotainment system. The seats are likely to be racing-style buckets that provide excellent support during spirited driving.
Noble has also paid attention to the suspension setup, which is crucial for a car that aims to offer excellent handling. The M500 is expected to feature a double-wishbone suspension system at both the front and rear, along with adjustable dampers. This setup will allow drivers to fine-tune the car’s handling characteristics to suit their preferences and driving conditions.
As for pricing, that hasn’t been announced, but a prototype is nearly complete, and the company is aiming for around £150,000. This price point positions the M500 as a more accessible option compared to the M600, which costs significantly more. Despite being the “entry-level” model, the M500 is expected to offer a thrilling driving experience that is in line with Noble’s reputation for building high-performance cars.
The Noble M500 represents a compelling option for enthusiasts who crave a pure, unfiltered driving experience. With its powerful engine, manual gearbox, and driver-focused design, the M500 is set to be a worthy addition to Noble’s lineup. It offers a blend of performance, handling, and engagement that is increasingly rare in today’s automotive landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned track-day veteran or simply someone who appreciates the art of driving, the M500 promises to deliver an exhilarating experience.
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