SBA (South Bangkok Autoworks) Plc. Lore + Models

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1977 SBA Gracelet Mk.II, 1.4 Saloon and 1.4 Silkmatic.

1977 Bangkok International Car Meeting, Suan Ambhorn Palace, Bangkok.

Many journalists gathered around the grandstand of the show, waiting for new SBA announcement of the new car aimed for commuter and budget family markets.

After the great jazz and blues performance from Mahidol University’s brass band has ended, the lights went out, left only the spotlight shining on the center of the stand.
SBA’s CEO, Chief of Engineering and Executive of Design appeared with a mysterious car covered in fabric waiting for revealing to public eyes.

“We’re here to announce our new latest innovation of the road, with our vision, elegance and efficiency, we would like to introduce our new ‘Gracelet Mk.II’ for the road!”

“Interms of design, we have studied the needs for function and looks, then we studied the global design trends which resulted the sharp yet elegant lines like Italian designs” Executive of Design’s description of his design language who worked with SBA since “Breeze design concept car” and the famouse “Cdx” which received many design awards.

Our new Gracelet Mk.II comes with updated 1.4 engine, tuned for better fuel consumption can reach to 11 Kilometres per litre only with the new 91 RON non-leaded gasoline.
The biggest changes from previous Gracelet is the new driving layout, now we have decided using Tranverse Front Wheel Drive as her driving force for efficiency both engine and passenger’s volume with great traction.

“We have studied hard on front wheel drive from our Cdx, especially for using with small body without compromising too much on comfort, changing from rear wheel drive to front wheel drive is quite dramatic as now you don’t need to worry about oversteer while pushing out of emergency situation now you can do just tab the brake for weight shifting to the front axle then you steer it away from the emergency. And also with better traction on slippery surfaces especially during in the rain.” SBA’s Chief of Engineering for the engineering aspects.

“Our market research shows that people need something more on ride comfort, passenger volume but must not have too much body overhang. Despite the favour of 3 box design with rear trunk, we have decided to choose hatchback body style, the rear hatch is ease to accessing to the storage compartment. Why would you need to lift such a heavy hard case travel bag over the rear end of the car while you can lift slightly without need rotating you bag in the trunk?”

“The Drivability is better than ever, we have develop 4 speeds automatic version of ‘Silkmatic’ gearbox, now comes with ‘overdrive’ function for better fuel consumption, this is for 1.4 ‘Silkmatic’ as standard”

The new Gracelet Mk.II is cheaper than ever, thanks to our new steel body technology without compromising to rust protection which resulted to potential customer’s satifaction for pricing, now we have partership with Siam Commercial Bank for leasing options to customer, SCB will provide 60 months leasing for customers.

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1979 SBA Romulus 3.5 Apex

To compete in group 4 and group 5 class sports car championships, SBA decided to develop special project named “code Blue R” in 1977 with SBA own resources and experiences.

With the racing herritage, SBA decided to revive the name “Romulus” from the legendary “Romulus” which participated in 1952 Corso Di Fruinia.

The new Romulus follows the previous footstep, wrapped in aircraft grade aluminum, good weight distribution 42/58 front and rear, and for the first time of SBA, this Romulus uses Midship configuration with longitudinal layout mated with specialized transaxle gearbox for optimum weight balance and engine accessibility.

Despite the sporty engineering meant to be race on the track, SBA is still maintain the design philosophy, “graceful yet efficient” for pleasing your eyes. The design language is focused on sharp line and wide body with extreme rake on A pillar which looks fast even it is standing still.

Not just only the stunning looks but also spectacular performance, the new Romulus comes with special 3.5 V8 which can scream to 6200 RPM while making 240 Horsepowers / 296 Nm of Torque by only using RON91 fuel, distributed by mechanic fuel injection.
With all power not only comes from the engine itself, Romulus has another trick in its sleeve, with its very efficient aero design it can slice through the air very efficiently.

While having such power, you can control this Romulus with confidence from Ventilated Discs allround, our harsh brake and handling test showed no sign of lockup but still maintain good braking power without any brake fading.

Now the Romulus can rush itself from 0-60 in stunning 6.66 seconds, marked the highest top speed at 235 km/h while still carrying the sport seats and premium FM/AM Stereo as standard.

Now you can own the apex of the performance to challenge and push yourself beyond the limits at SBA’s dealerships.

• SBA does not endorse highspeed driving on public roads, please driving responsibly and attention to road safety.
• Romulus is limited production, and will use “First come first serve” only, please place your order and return order confirmation back to your nearest dealership.

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Another lore: 1970s era.

In 1977, a movie called “Misty and the Outlaw” (Romanized Thai name: Sao Ngam Lae Suea Nhum) made a huge hits in Thailand’s movie chart.
Despite unofficial support from SBA, “The Outlaw Kesa Ti” had become an icon from the movie and the demand for 2.0 Ti “Twincam” has soared.
After many requests since the debut of the movie, SBA decided to collaborate with the film producer for very special production run.

SBA Kesa 2.0 Ti “The Outlaw” Edition

This special package is for 2.0 Ti only, and comes with Diamond Black / Gold Dust special color, high visibility fog lamps (by Hellaflash), front skirt by Bangfai Motorsports, Premium leather seats with “The Outlaw Edition” engraved on back rest, new Konas shock absorber and special “Thunder” mesh rim by KKS painted in Gold Dust and chrome lips.

“Misty and The Outlaw” is an action movie starred by Sorabhong Chatri as “The Outlaw”, a young outlaw who works almost anything in illicit for money contacted by mysterious person “The Hat Guy” requesting to retrive the care package but it turned out to be the young lady with secrets, starred by Phetchara Chaowaraj as she has been unwillingly taken away for marriage arrangement between famous farm tycoon family and powerful politician. “The Outlaw” has to drive the lady to the destination located by “The Hat Guy” but being interfere by mobsters who tried to stop at all cost.

Fun fact, I’ve made a parody of “Smokie and The Bandit” (after I’ve received that “The Bandit” has passed away)

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(This part is lore and it can be quite boring, you can skip to next reply)

Official Information for shareholders, published on 9th December 1979

SBA is reaching in 1980

After slumped sale on early 1970 due to global oil crisis and major clashes on the middle east and ongoing dispute on the indochina peninsular, somehow SBA still has the major luck on her side, as global oil crisis drove interest from gas guzzlers to SBA gracelet, despite critics due to high price compared to competitors, but our gracelet had showed the reliability beyond competitors.

SBA Gracelet’s sale has gone up in 1974 dramatically after 3 years of slupmed sales and maintained strong sales, including more sales in fleet markets by major corporations for rental cars and police partrol cars.

Within the same year, 1974, SBA had launched Cdx. series showing the innovative of hydropneumatic suspension despite late market approach due to global situations. However, with newly Engine Capacity Control Act 1974, SBA’s Cdx has availed from not over capacity especially Cd 3.5 Prestige which meant to be sold as luxury class only.

As the initial launch of Cdx series, many buying prospects gave interest to the innovaton and styling yet fuel efficient for premium segments which resulted increased sales growth despite a bit late from expectations, thanks to risky apporach and “Car of The Year” awarded by Formulae Magazine.

In 1976 the aftermath of global oil crisis, rising of “Disco” popculture, people looking for more fun like in 1960s again, and SBA had the right answer to working class people by releasing Kesa Mk.II series, but now only in 2 doors styling both liftback coupe and convertible as competing in specialty car segments.

Thanks so sharing resources within the line up, Kesa Mk.II 2.0 Coupe and convertible are using the same engine with Cd 2.0 with only upgraded for 91 non-leaded fuel as visioned for cleaner future and better financial situation in longterm.
But the fun did not stop, as participating in sports car event and rallying, SBA decided developing DOHC engine out of Cd 2.0’s original 2.0 litre engine to become “Typhoon” engine series for Kesa Mk.II 2.0 Coupe Ti nicknamed as “Twincam Kesa” which proven successful in national and internatiol motorsport events.

Also major updating to beloved workhorse “Jungler” and “Jungler Bull” within the same year. Jungler received the new cosmetic upgrade along with integrated tail lamps, rear bumper bar, updated safety features such as 3 point safety belt, transfer case lockup, servo assisted brakes and etc. for compliance to new safety regulation and for the first time, Jungler received 2 liter engine sharing with Cd 2.0 and Kesa Mk.II with new metal roof body.

In 1977 there were majorchanges to the company, as newly expanded facility in Samutprakarn province, increasing number of authorized showrooms, new design study concept cars, new safety technology procuments and also the new line up of the Gracelet, the Gracelet Mk.II 1.4 Saloon and 1.4 Silkmatic.
The major changes from previous Gracelet is the drivetrain and styling, using Transverse Front Wheel Drive and Hatchback body style were taking huge risk to the market as too advance for people’s understanding, but SBA’s core policy is taking risk for creating future, resulted to market changes. Many critics were unexpected from the ride quality, practicality and drivability compared to previous Gracelet, resulted soaring sales with great help with our partner Siam Commercial Bank assisted in financing for customers.
Also we have launched special division for innovative technology nicknamed “Mouse work” for racing development and specilized vehicle operation, and their first work of labor and love was 1977 Kesa Mk.II 2.0 Coupe Ti “Misty and the Outlaw” edition.

In 1979, we have seen the political turmoil resulted to political unrest and student protest for outsing Prime Minister. SBA did not express to any political agenda nor political movements, but somehow many protester used many SBA product for transportation and for expression tool of “freedom and equality for all” which boosted sale a bit.
Also our special division “Mouse work” has release the product from hard long 3 years in project code “Blue R” resulted to SBA’s first ever sports car with midship configuration named “Romulus” for competing FIA group 4 and 5 racing category.

Our company focus and forecast in 1980s will be bright with digital age, as Samutsarn Cheampithak, CEO of SBA Inc., Ltd. had mentioned to board meeting for registering as public limited company in Thailand Stock Exchange Market (SET) within 5 years for more expansion, especially exports markets and also all SBA’s engine shall be civilised, changing to Fuel Injection or Electronic Fuel Injection within 6 years.

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All new SBA lineup of 1980s

All new Cdx. Mk.II Series, Cd 2.0 and Cd 3.5 Prestige

1980 Bangkok International Motorshow, Suan Ambhorn Palace, Bangkok.
As lights went out, only left for the spotlight shining on the white glossy stage, Samutsarn Cheampithak, CEO of SBA Inc., Ltd., stood up making the announcement of the newest lineup of 1980 “The reaching to digital age” before the vehicles were driven up to the stage.

Introducing all new Cdx. Mk.II series, Cd 2.0 and Cd 3.5 Prestige.

Cd 2.0 in “Forest Green”

Cd 3.5 Prestige in “Exclusive Black”

With our new 2nd generation of Cdx. now comes with fuel injected engine both 2 and 3.5 liters for better fuel efficiency.

Cd 2.0’s power plant is updated from same inline 4 which has proven for reliability, now producing 100 horse power @ 5400 rpm with 158 Nm of torque @ 2900 rpm. Transmitting power via updated “Silkmatic” 4 speed automatic transmission, Disc brakes all round as standard, the major leap from previous Cdx.

The interior comes with premium leather for 5 seats, premium 8 track sound system from “Thanin”, new “Trival” variable hydraulic assist steering. All those comfort are protected with safety features including, reinforced bodycage, crumple zones both front and rear, improved hydraulic pressure system for brake distribution and power steering, improved hydropneumatic suspension with double wishbone suspension both front and rear.

All Cd 2.0 are focused on rising premium family segment for young successful family man and woman needed for styling, technology and comfort.

But, there are those who does not with drive only for the means archiving the destinations, but purpose of being driven it self is what Cd 3.5 Prestige was crafted for.

Its creation is to fullfill the desire of premium and luxury car following the footstep of the previous generation, the Cd 3.5 Prestige offers portolio of luxury wishlisted by other manufacturer, with pride of being solely selected as official state vehicle and official royal vechicle.

To providing Cd 3.5 Prestige with effortless in high speed and smoothness low speed drivability, the V8 power unit were specially developed fuel injection by Birch K Jetspray system. The 168 horsepower provides very usable torque gradually up to 275 Nm in low power band.

To providing driver and passenger in comfortable environment which to conduct the business of driving, the carefully design handmade leather seat put with soft material insert, a thick single spoke leather clad steering wheel. A newly design climate control now can be overide by simple switch, located on rear arm rest. And standard luxury 8 track sound system by “Alpen” specialy design for the acoustic sound, provide crisp and rich clean sound.

As befit to luxury caliber, all Cd 3.5 Prestige are crafted by hand selected workers from the factory for special vehicle division. To ensure the quality of the product and the craftmanship, the plant produces in maximum of 30 cars per day.

Without question, Cd 3.5 Prestige is a milestone flagship car the one pushing the envelope to one expected level, it is one the other to be measured.

Test drive out new Cdx. Mk.II both Cd 2.0 and Cd 3.5 Prestige at SBA’s showroom and Authorized dealership.

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1980 SBA Gracelet Mk.II Swift 1.4 Ti

During the introduction prior to Cdx. Mk.II introduction, SBA’s CEO, has made the introduction to the latest model for SBA Gracelet Mk.II Swift 1.4 Ti.

As we South Bangkok Autoworks is reaching to 20th year anniversary since the merging between Bangkok Aeronautical Factory and Siam Steel Works, I would like to introduce the latest update to our Gracelet Mk.II Swift 1.4 Ti, Cdx. Cd 2.0, and Cd 3.5 Prestige.

As you are wondering to the latest Cdx series, we shall take a deep look to Gracelet Swift 1.4 Ti first.

Our Gracelet Swift 1.4 Ti came from special vehicle division’s research, after we have already seen the famous hothatch in European market. As our motto “Risk is our challenge to the future”, we would not let away this oppotunity for spicing things up, as we have already the experience from Kesa 2.0 Coupe Ti “Misty and the Outlaw” and the sports car “Romulus” which is the product from the special vehicle division.

Apart from being as commuter, aimed for fuel efficiency and comfort as solely means for transportation, now using the latest reliable technology of mechanical fuel injection developed by Birch Technology, same as using in aircrafts for rapid and reliable response in all times you needed for performance.

This little Swift screams at 78 horsepowers @ 6200 rpm producing 100 Nm @ 4700, thanks to fuel injection and high lift angle camchafts.
Not just adding more power to this little swift, all power are transmitted in close ratio gearbox coupled with sports compound tyres from “Tyrelli” for better traction than ever, and disc brakes all round as standard, as stopping from 100-0 quickly in 37 meters.
For highspeed stability, we decided to add front lip and rear spoiler for aerodynamic stability, proven on the race track, as our test driver revealed the surprising stable highspeed stability.
Now power and grip mated with improved agility from sport suspension, stiffened shock absorber, stiffer spring rates, you can throw this little Swift into the corner sharply without any hesitation up until 100 km/h

Now, the Gracelet Swift 1.4 Ti comes with two-tone color package, Sunburst Red with Flat Grey accent, with special 4 spokes alloy rims. The interior now comes with 4 bolstered premium cloth seats for comfort and confidence of your driving business without sacrificing much practicality.

Now you can test drive the Gracelet Swift 1.4 Ti at SBA’s showroom and available soon in authorized dealers.

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'85 SBA Gracelet Integral 4 - S (Group B Homologation, project G54-I-B)

Due to stiff competition of group B rallying, and less than spectacular results from old Kesa Mk.II’s chassis.
Finally in late 1983, SBA’s special vehicle division was permitted with only single objective "to beat the mighty Audi’s “Quattro” system and FAAL’s Teltra Tour de Corse, after closely won the '83-84 world chamption’s title, while SBA mighty Kesa scored only 2 points away from '83 world title’s champion.

Our factory team engineer, established headquarter in Germany, gave the request of using small and compact body, with short wheel base and short overhang for maximum agility in special rally stage, and using 1.7 liter turbocharged unit.

As resulted from gruelling test, SBA decided using Gracelet’s body platform for special homologation with newly develop AWD system called “Integral” (internal reference: Integral X) based from old reliable 4WD system mainly used in SBA’s Jungler.

Styling wise, was penned by “Kanlayakorn Phusakul” who designed Mk.II Cdx. and Gracelet Mk.II, graduated from Silpakorn University in 60s then worked in many Italian designs marques for years prior to her position as Executive of Design at SBA in mid 70s.

While using Mk.II Gracelet body style, which mainly steel construction, SBA decided for bold approach, using space frame chassis with light weight fiberglass with highly advance carbon kevlar composite body materials, resulting to extremely light weight chassis.

Power plant now uses all aluminum XU17 unit, with 4 valves per cylinder, fuel injection by Birch X-Trionizer multipoint and Turbo charger from KKK, resulted as 270 horsepowers and 315 Nm of torque with only use of 91 RON unleaded fuel for street specs.

Integral AWD system is geared limited slip differential for equal power delivery to all four wheels, resulting for maximize traction in all situations, Gravel, Snow, Ice, Wet tarmac and Tarmac without compromising its handling for high speed cornering, very famous from old trusty Kesa Mk.II

With all research from harsh rallying stages and the development, resulting this Gracelet Integral 4 - S (in street trim) for extremely rapid acceleration like no other with just only seconds ahead of its competitors.

Official specification:

0-100 (km/h)	80-120 (km/h)	Quarter mile	Max speed
4.5 s	2.85 s	12.9 s	230 km/h

Interior wise is equipped with premium cloth and alcantara upholsters, premium cloth seats with side bolstered supports and FM/AM stereo for casual driving.

Now SBA has been given approval from FIA (FISA) for its homologation, any customer request for competition trim can send the request form at SBA’s special vehicle division in Thailand or SBA’s competition headquarter in Germany.

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'85 SBA Gracelet Integral 4 - R (competition trim, G54-I-BR)

After initial launch of Gracelet Integral 4 - S, as have been approved from FIA (FISA) for the homologation in Group B rallying, this is the real weapon for the competition. The replacement of Kesa 2.0 Ti Turbo RS.

Gracelet Integral 4 - R (Tarmac Spec)

Gracelet Integral 4 - R (Safari Rally Spec)

Powering this monster is from specialized XU17 engine, rumored for pushing 500 horsepowers.
All SBA’s factory team car will be ready in '85 Montecarlo Rally, with our new young Finnish rising star “Mikka Kolianen” and famous female rally driver “Azure Giovanni”.

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'80 SBA Kesa Mk.II 2.0 Coupe Ti (Facelift)

After introducing all new Mk.II Cdx, SBA decided to refresh the popular Kesa up to the modern standard.
The press release was launched on September at Royal Race Track at Nangloeng (Sanammah Nangloeng)

The refreshed styling was another design from Kanlayakorn Phusakul, a revised orginal design from “Seksan Kwanmuang” with more modern looks.

The refresh isn’t just only the aesthetic, but also the performance as well. As the result of being popular choice for both circuit and rally within group 4 competition class, thanks to its rugged reliability and the reknowned sharp handling in high speed cornering.
The engine were upgraded with Mechanical Fuel Injection from Birch Technology for better performance with better fuel consumption without compromising of using 91 RON unleaded fuel.
Now with all upgrades is resulting for 145 horsepowers with 181 Nm of torque.

Not just only the engine itself, but also comes with special aero package like in the race car and the famous “Romulus”, the pure bred race car meant to be for race track.
Now, this Kesa 2.0 Coupe Ti can snap from 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds and 80-120 km/h in 5.76 seconds, with maximum topspeed over 190 km/h!

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'82 Kesa Mk.II 2.0 Coupe Ti Turbo (Group 4 Tranferred Rally Competition Car)

The popular Kesa had become the popular choice for competition, both circuit and rally, thanks to its rugged chassis and good highspeed handling.
The newly established factory racing team in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, part of SBA Special Vehicle Devision a.k.a. “Mouse Works” decided to transform the most powerful line up, Kesa Mk.II 2.0 Ti Turbo, into the weapon grade for the competition.

Its power plant comes from the same turbocharged unit, but with racing components now producing 260 horsepowers with 280+ Nm of torque.
The first appearance of this turbocharged monster was '80 1000 Lakes rally with spectacular results despite slowly being dominated by AWD competitors.

Official specs:

0-100 (km/h)	80-120 (km/h)	Top Speed
6.78 s	3.24 s	230 km/h

'83 Kesa 2.0 Turbo RS (Group B competition trim, K22-T-4B)

“The swansong of Kesa Mk.II”

This Kesa 2.0 Turbo RS was built as final evolution of the mighty platform, and also as interim project before the official approval for the development from SBA’s headquater in Thailand, to combat the rising AWD oppositions in world rally championship.

Its engine have been heavily modified to match the extreme speed of its competitor, producing 320 horsepowers with 375 Nm of torque.
With increased power, a special gearbox was developed to withstand its massive torque of the engine. Also heavily modified to the body panels, with better cooling capacity for increasing reliability.

While this old and outdated Kesa 2.0 Turbo RS was slowly outrun by many AWD competitors. Azure Giovanni, SBA factory team’s female driver had managed to won many tarmac events from her spectacular driving.
But sadly, despite her spectacular driving wasn’t enough for the world title, after closely beatened by FAAL’s Teltra Tour De Corse in the very last stages of rally championship.

Now the 2.0 Turbo RS became as collector’s item, with high asking price and its rally pedigree, the auction price had risen up more than ever.

Official Specs:

0-100 km/h	80-120 km/h	Top Speed
6.18 s	2.76 s	238 km/h

[Marcus_gt500]

Nice designs, specially on the race cars. Good job.

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'82 SBA Gracelet (Mk.II) 1.6 Swift Ti “Twincam”

Another brainchild from Kanlayakorn Phusakul for updated styling with her signature of using sharp bodyline. This popular Gracelet has been upgraded from 1.4 to 1.6 liter engine with double overhead camshaft from the notorious “Typhoon 8 valve”, founded in Kesa Mk.II 2.0 Coupe Ti.

The new 1.6 liter was another version of “Typhoon 8V” engine with smaller capacity configuration, pushing more than 120 horsepowers.

'82 SBA Gracelet (Mk.II) 1.6 Swift Ti “Police Interceptor”

As the special request from Royal Thai Police, Metropolitan Division and Special Branch Bureau. SBA provided the special “Interceptor” version as highspeed response car, along with specialized Cdx. 3.5.

The powerplant was upgraded for more power and torque in midrange powerband. Producing 128 horsepowers and 149 Nm of torque. Resulting the unmatched acceleration to many performance cars.

The police version of this car was the product from SBA’s special vehicle division.

Official Specs:

0-100 (km/h)	80-120 (km/h)	Top speed
7.99 s	5.76 s	186 km/h (with unlocked limiter)

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'86 SBA Gracelet Mk.III

'86 SBA Gracelet 1.6 Silkmatic and 1.6 Swift

As reaching to the 2nd half of 80s. SBA decided to develop a new body platform for the aging Mk.II, which reaching 10th anniversary in 1987. All new Gracelet Mk.III was designed by the legenday Kanlayakorn Phusakul with her distinct sharp bodyline.

Powering the new Gracelet was changed from old 1.4 liter with 8 valves to 1.6 liter with 16 valves. All using Electronic Fuel Injection as standard.
The new transmission was upgraded as “Silkmatic 3” for smoother power delivery in all ranges.

The body styling was maintained to its core, 5 doors hatch back with larger cargo space and 3 door hatchback with stylish popup headlights. The newly designed interior was packed with premium cloth seats as standard.

'86 SBA Gracelet 1.6 Swift Ti Twincam Turbo

The hottest of all Gracelet, the replacement to notorious Gracelet Ti Twincam. Now, this little Gracelet comes with special designed frontend with popup headlights for better aerodynamic efficiency.
Styling wise was done by the legendary Kanlayakron Phusakul.

Powering this Gracelet comes from TR-U-16-GE-T-Alpha, turbocharged 1.6 liter with 16 valves. Producing 175 horsepowers. All developed from the legendary XU17 engine founded in Gracelet Integral 4 - S, the homologation of group B rally monster machine.

With newly developed engine, now pushing the performance like no other. Accleration from 0-100 km/h was less than 7 seconds with maximum top speed 200 km/h. Unmatched to any other competitior in the market.

Official Thai release advertisment.

[Marcus_gt500]

Post your ad on my ad topic! Looking good!

[ACoolCrab]

Oof your ad is so cool even if I don’t understand a word haha

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'62 Kesa (Mk.I) 2.5 Coupe Deluxe and '63 2.0 Berlina Deluxe

(Rebooted from Kee engine)

The first car from newly founded company in 1962 between Bangkok Aeronautical Factory (Automotive Division) and Siam Steel Company Limited. As the first aim for premium buyers with more stylish looks. After BAF’s struggle from fuel crisis in 50s, the company was finally gained supports from private investors which resulted to merging between Siam Steel Company Limited.

SBA’s headquarter was located on the Charoenkrung Road, far south of the Bangkok. Hence the name of “South Bangkok Autoworks”.
The very first model from SBA was Kesa series. Came in both stylish coupe and sedan. The brainchild from former BAF’s head of engineer during the last struggle in late 50s.

The 2.5 Coupe Deluxe was powered by 2.5 liters inline 6 with its famous agility handling like seen in BAF’s car. Producing 63 horsepowers with very smooth engine vibration and effortless power. The stopping power was using highly advance disc all rounds, inherited from Bangkok Aeronautical Factory’s aeronautical engineering know how. Interior wise was packed with premium leather seats and premium FM/AM radio.
Also, this was the first production car that can do in excess of “The Magic Number” 160 km/h (100 mph). Later it became as status of symbol to many successful businessmen.

'63 Kesa 2.0 Berlina Deluxe

But, as for growing up family. SBA also had the solution of this Kesa, the 4 door 2.0 Berlina Deluxe released in 1963 with 2.0 liters inline 4 for better fuel efficiency. Despite of having 4 doors, the interior was still using the premium leather for better comfort.

Both models were sale success in domestic market, with some success in overseas exports due to more affordable price in premium market and its styling.

Now the Mk.I Kesa became highly sought after, as the genesis of SBA’s future lineup.

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The Genesis of Gracelet’s competition.

As the road rallying has changed from open road to special stages, since the accident in 1968, many auto manufacturers interested more in this kind of motorsport. As to proven the reliability and for marketing purpose. SBA already had an experiences in beforehand, both from the Corso di Fruinia in the name of Bangkok Aeronautical Factory and many international road rallies, decided to participate as factory supporting role in late 60s.
Until now…

'73 SBA Gracelet Swift Gr2 (Homologation special)

The ordinary Gracelet were equipped with efficient 1.4 liter engine, the same powerplant in Jungler for better drivability and torque, derived from old 2.0 “SBA-PL4” founded in Kesa and the only roadster “Riparia”. However, being 1.4 liter wasn’t enough for the rising competition, especially in terms of power to weight ratio like European’s contenders. SBA engineers decided to create a special variant, with enlarged displacement up to 1.6 liter for more power and more torque, as for special racing package or racing homologation rather than mainstream marketing. (later become as “Special Vehicle Department” to SBA in 1974, then “Special Vehicle Division” in 1979)

The changes to “Gr2” was not just only the enlarged displacement to 1.6 liter, with special “PL4/S92L” came with heavy duty conrods, forged pistons, high angle camshaft, special 4 barrel carburettors and bespoke tubular exhaust, producing 95 horsepowers from small 1.6 liters.
Transmitting all power via close ratio 5 speed gearbox with dog leg engagement for quicker acceleration than ever.

With increasing power comes with better control, the Gr2 came with powerful front disc brake with performance brake pads, for responsive and powerful stopping power that can out brake any competitors. The suspension was purely tuned for handling, with sports compound tire as standard, this Gr2 can out turn in any corners.

As for the homologation, all Gr2 came with 14" Alloy rims with 185 mm. tires and premium seats. With optional competition packages directly from SBA for private teams.

'73 SBA Gracelet Swift Gr2 (Factory Team Car)

As the new Gr2 had been approved from FIA for group 2 competition, SBA had announce for their racing car to compete with global events as part of marketing strategy. It all grew up from small private rally team in Wilhemshaven, Germany in hands of Armin Siegler, who won many titles with SBA Gracelet Swift. Later, become a new branch of SBA’s oversea operation, under management by Walther Grundheim with factory engineers.

All Gracelet Gr2 factory team car were painted in striking color named “Chilli Red” and came with specialized racing engine, euipped with DCOE carburettors and more aggressive suspension tuning, as can be noticed from flared wheel arches with special magnesium rims.

The main driver for SBA factory team was Armin Siegler with his co-driver Christopher Weiss, the fearsome duo nicknamed “the giant killers”.

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'73 SBA Gracelet Swift Gr2 (FTC) for Rally di Fruinia

As previously announced the official participation in world rally championship, SBA decided to send the official race car directly from Thailand to newly founded SBA Motorsport in Wilhemlshaven, Germany along with factory engineers.

And this number 49 will be SBA’s spearhead in 5º Rallye di Fruinia in 1973 season.
Armin Siegler will be the main driver with Christopher Weiss as his co-driver.

Changes were made for weight reduction as much as possible, wheel arches were decreased to standard spec, additional spotlights for greater illumination during the night stages, specialized suspension tuning for maximum handling in high speed and close ratio gearbox for rapid acceleration.

Tires were sponsored by Yomama Tires, with RS073 sport compound for using both in tarmac and gravel surfaces. Special magnesium rim from RS Watanobu, the popular choice from lightness with durability. And Mobirb 1 lublicants, with semi synthetic engine oil for maximum lubrication in all powerbands.

Currently this number 49 car is under grueling test in Germany with hands of Armin Seigler.

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'85 Cdx. “Phase 2” Cd 2.0

An update styling for popular premium executive car, the Cdx. Gone away with chrome bumpers, all were molded ABS plastic bumpers with integrated auxilary lights for more modern looks.
Now all inline 4 version comes with newly developed SOHC 16 valves unit with electronic fuel injection for better fuel efficiency than ever.
Changes were not just only the exterior and the engine, but also the interior with updated interior styling and better quality.

Our reports show that Cdx 2.0 were popular choice not just being premium executive car, but also popular choice for premium passenger fleet, thanks to the dazzling hydropneumatic suspension that gives superb comfort ride like no others, only seen in French’s finest.
Safety features were upgraded to the highest standard, with state of the art supplement restrain system for the driver as standard.

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'86 Cdx. 2.0 Sx Turbo

For the first time, the Cdx comes with turbocharged unit as increasing demand for premium segment since the '83 2.0 Sx “Twincam”. The new turbocharged engine was the main family of “Tornado” (TR-U-xx series) along with TR-U-16 “Alpha” founded in Graclet Swift 1.6 Ti Twincam Turbo.

With the turbocharged unit, Cd 2.0 Sx was truely “shock and awe” to many performance executive cars in the market, as pushing the top speed over 220 km/h with breathtaking acceleration from 0-100 km/h within 7 seconds.

Also for the first time, Cd 2.0 Sx equipped with highly advance Antilock Brake System (ABS) along with ventilated disc brakes as standard for greater control and safety.
The comfortability, Cd 2.0 Sx now equips with sunroof for more pleasure when enjoying the scenery.

However, many auto journalist speculated that Cd 2.0 Sx Turbo was the experimental unit before using in rumored all wheel drive version of the Gracelet Mk.III which soon to be release in late 1987 as part of “25th anniversary packages”.

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'86 Cdx. 3.5 Prestige

The sole flagship of all SBA products with pride of being official state car and royal passenger fleet, Cdx. 3.5 Prestige also received a major updates in styling and technology.
The engine now using the last variant of Glory Eight (GE8-XX) named “Zenith”, a swansong for the old trusty V8 since the beginning of Cdx, before using new generation of V8 unit, as rumored having all aluminum with DOHC configuration.

Major updates was not only the last variant of the engine itself, but also the interior as well. All interior were handmade with optional package for silk insert, same as appeared in first class compartment of Thai Airways.

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The birth of the rally legend “Gracelet 2.0 Ti Integral”

'87 Gracelet 2.0 Ti Integral

As part of “25th Anniversary” project, and the continuation of Integral system development since the first introduction in homologation special, Gracelet Integral 4 - S, now the Mk.III Gracelet received with the ultimate version to keep up with the competitors.

The premier launch was on September 1987 at Suan Ambhorn Palace in 25th anniversary of the company since 1962, with many interest from around the world of this little racing machine.

The Gracelet 2.0 Ti Integral was completely different from usual Gracelet, even Gracelet 1.6 Swift Ti Twincam Turbo from having different frontend design with twin sealed headlights and using longitudinal mounted engine rather than uasual transversly mounted in regular Gracelets.

While having the new engine same in turbocharged Cdx, the power delivery system was the same as appeared in Gracelet Integral 4 - S but better torque distribution, thanks to the new center differential with more distribution at the rear for shape handling like driving RWD cars without compromising the traction and safety on slippery surfaces.

Not only the performance was enhanced, but also the safety features and the interior were enhanced as well.
The Gracelet 2.0 Ti Integral were equipped Anti-lock Brake System as standard for better control and safety.

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After the premier launch, SBA decided to launch very special edition of the Gracelet 2.0 Ti Integral named “25th Anniversary Edition” with total production of 250 cars worldwide. Only sold in Exclusive Black with Special Gold wheel rims.

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The export version of Gracelet 2.0 Ti Integral was debuted at 1987 Tokyo Motor show, only two months away from the premier launch in Thailand as part of 25th year anniversary and was produced from 1987 to 1992.
It was homologation special with only one goal, to compete in motorsports. SBA’s aim was still the same, Group A rallying, meaning that SBA has to manufactured 2500 units out from the entire range Gracelet Mk.III model.

However, due to its drastic nature of using longitudinal mounted engine, a far contrast from transversly mounted in usual Mk.III Gracelet which led to controversy of the eligibility as homologation special, resulted to late homologation approval from FIA in early '88 and increased production from the original number of 2500 units to 25000 units wordwide.

Later the Gracelet 2.0 Ti Integral was serious challenger with other manufacturer in world rally championship with more success from Azure Giovanni, Mikka Kolianen and Steward Wilson who drove for the private team but finished in top 10 overall place in 1988 Olympus Rally.

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'88 Gracelet 2.0 Ti Integral (US Specs)

As part of US market expansion, SBA decided to export the “Integral” as well, but a bit later than the rest of the world due to the further development for the engine and other safety regulation to be eligible to sell in the States.

Changes from global exports version were, catalytic converter due to emission standard which decreased the maximum power from over 220 horsepower to 216 horserpower, side markers and driver side airbag as standard, as automatic seatbelt system deemed not crashworthy enough for such performance machine.

The total number of US Spec were only 500 cars and it was sold out completly after the stellar result in 1988 Olympus Rally in hands of local driver, Steward Wilson for finishing within top 10 over place, only minutes away from John Buffum’s Audi Quattro.

The original advertisement for US Market.