Exclusive Wells Vertige Road Test: £75k A110 Rival Is a Lightweight, Purist Gem

Why It Matters

The Vertige proves a market exists for ultra‑light, driver‑focused sports cars, reviving British low‑volume engineering and challenging higher‑priced rivals like the Alpine A110.

Key Takeaways

• Vertige under 1,000 kg, lighter than Alpine A110
• 247 bhp from a naturally aspirated Ford engine
• Manual six‑speed, no ABS or traction control
• Limited‑run production keeps exclusivity high

Pulse Analysis

The Wells Vertige arrives at a time when the automotive world is dominated by electrified, software‑heavy machines, yet a niche of enthusiasts still craves pure mechanical engagement. By leveraging a lightweight steel‑tube chassis, Kevlar‑reinforced fiberglass panels, and a high‑revving 2.0‑litre Ford Duratec, Wells delivers a power‑to‑weight ratio of 287 bhp per tonne—comparable to many performance coupes that cost twice as much. Its sub‑tonne mass not only translates to brisk acceleration—5.5 seconds to 60 mph—but also to nimble handling, allowing drivers to exploit the fully adjustable double‑wishbone suspension without the interference of electronic stability aids.

Beyond raw performance, the Vertige’s business model underscores a resurgence of boutique manufacturing in the UK. With a nine‑person team producing fewer than 30 cars per year, the company sidesteps the economies of scale that larger OEMs rely on, instead offering bespoke materials like Connolly leather and rosewood. This approach appeals to affluent buyers seeking exclusivity and a tangible connection to the car’s construction, positioning the Vertige as a modern heir to classic British sports cars while maintaining relatively low running costs—34 mpg mixed, 46 mpg on the motorway, and straightforward serviceability thanks to its Ford‑sourced drivetrain.

For the market, the Vertige signals that lightweight, driver‑centric vehicles can still command premium pricing when they deliver a unique blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and performance. Its success could encourage other small manufacturers to explore similar low‑volume, high‑engagement platforms, potentially reshaping a segment that has been eclipsed by high‑tech, high‑price offerings. As regulatory pressures mount, the Vertige’s reliance on a naturally aspirated engine may also prompt discussions about emissions compliance and future powertrain adaptations for boutique sports cars.