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this is an all-purpose performance machine. After making some tire pressure
adjustments and turning the single knobs on the Penske shock canisters, the
435 ran 11.96 @ 117.38 mph on NHRA timing equipment. This run was made in full
street trim, including catalytic converters and street tires. This car has also
recorded .996g on the skid pad. The Mallett doesn't take a weekend of wrenching
to get it ready for combat - just turn the knob and wail.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
During our test drive around Roebling Road, we discovered a very stable ride
and tight responsive steering. We didn't notice any kickback in the steering
wheel when we pushed it really hard in a corner. This car goes where you steer
it. The engine's throaty roar is so exhilarating it will stuff your eyes into
the back of your head at any rpm and any gear! Unlike the ZR-1 which really
comes on strong above 4,000 rpm, this engine pulls from 1,600 to the redline.
It's a delightful to drive.
You
have to really work to get yourself in trouble with
this car. After returning to the pits, we spent time with Chuck Mallett to get
more details about his creation. "We wanted to build this car for the inexperienced
driver and to let him go fast safely," Chuck told us. "We are targeting the
ZR-1 market. The ZR-1 was a limited production car that had a lot of torque
and horsepower and still carries an ownership mystique. We built this car to
exceed the ZR-1 experience and we believe we succeeded. We have had hundreds
of inquires and we are working on our 35th 1999 car. The ZR-1 is an excellent
car, but we think the Mallett 435 is better." Mallett revised the entire suspension,
adding Penske/Mallett adjustable shocks (the very same shocks that are used
on Indy cars) and Mallett-designed sway bars and bushings. The ride height has
been lowered, the weight bias changed and a trick suspension alignment is dialed
in. "We use 17" wheels and tires (275-40 front and 315-35 rear) to help improve
the gear ratio," Mallett said. "This also gives us better choice of tire compounds."
Mallett
435 cockpit features custom seats and Simpson 4-point belts.
