The Invicta S1 4.6 i V8 32V, producing 325 horsepower, was a grand touring coupe manufactured by the British automaker Invicta between 2004 and 2012. Representing a revival of the historic Invicta marque, the S1 aimed to recapture the spirit of the original 1930s Invicta cars – powerful, luxurious, and distinctly British. The S1 was built in very limited numbers, making it a rare and exclusive vehicle. It was positioned as a high-performance alternative to established grand tourers, offering a unique blend of classic styling and modern technology. This particular variant, the 4.6 i V8, was the primary engine offering throughout the S1’s production run.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Invicta |
| Model | S1 |
| Generation | S1 |
| Type (Engine) | 4.6 i V8 32V (325 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 20.8 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 25 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 8.8 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 290 km/h / 180.2 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.7 kg/Hp, 270.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 339.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 325 Hp @ 5900 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 407 Nm @ 4800 rpm / 300.19 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Ford Modular |
| Engine displacement | 4601 cm3 / 280.77 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.2 mm / 3.55 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm / 3.54 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.85:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l / 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1200 kg / 2645.55 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l / 26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal |
| Length | 4400 mm / 173.23 in. |
| Width | 2000 mm / 78.74 in. |
| Height | 1225 mm / 48.23 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm / 98.43 in. |
| Front track | 1780 mm / 70.08 in. |
| Rear track | 1730 mm / 68.11 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 255/35 R19 / 275/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19; 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Invicta S1 4.6 i was a 4.6-liter (4601 cc) V8 engine derived from the Ford Modular engine family. Specifically, it utilized the Ford 4.6L DOHC engine, known for its robust construction and potential for high performance. The engine featured a 90-degree V-angle, four valves per cylinder (32 valves total) operated by double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and multi-port fuel injection. The compression ratio was set at 9.85:1. This engine produced 325 horsepower at 5900 rpm and 407 Nm (300.19 lb-ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The S1 was exclusively offered with a 5-speed manual transmission, providing a direct and engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The Invicta S1 4.6 i delivered a classic grand touring experience. The 4.6-liter V8 provided ample power and torque throughout the rev range, resulting in strong acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint was achieved in approximately 4.8 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 290 km/h (180.2 mph). The 5-speed manual transmission allowed for precise control over the engine’s power. While not as technologically advanced as some contemporary sports cars, the S1 offered a raw and visceral driving experience. The relatively lightweight construction (1200 kg / 2645.55 lbs) contributed to its agile handling. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced feel, although it required a degree of driver skill to manage at the limit.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Invicta S1 was designed to be a luxurious grand tourer, and as such, it came standard with a high level of equipment. The interior featured Connolly leather upholstery, wood veneer trim, and a bespoke audio system. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, and central locking. The S1 offered a degree of customization, allowing buyers to specify their preferred leather colors, wood finishes, and other interior details. Options included upgraded audio systems, navigation, and various cosmetic enhancements. The focus was on creating a personalized and luxurious environment for the driver and passenger.
Chassis & Braking
The Invicta S1 utilized a steel spaceframe chassis, providing a rigid and lightweight platform. Suspension consisted of double wishbones at the front and a transverse stabilizer at the rear. This setup aimed to provide a balance between comfort and handling. The braking system featured ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The tires were high-performance 255/35 R19 at the front and 275/35 R19 at the rear, mounted on 8.5J and 9.5J alloy wheels respectively.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Invicta S1 was never a high-volume seller, due to its limited production run and high price point. Critics generally praised the car’s styling, performance, and luxurious interior. However, some noted that it lacked the technological sophistication of its rivals, such as the Aston Martin DB9 or the Porsche 911. Fuel economy was also a concern, with a combined consumption of 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg). Compared to other grand tourers, the S1 offered a unique blend of classic British charm and modern performance. Its exclusivity and limited production run made it a desirable collector’s item.
Legacy
The Invicta S1 4.6 i V8 represents a unique chapter in British automotive history. While the company ceased production in 2012, the S1 remains a sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts. The Ford Modular V8 engine is known for its reliability and durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of service. The S1’s limited production numbers and distinctive styling have ensured its status as a collectible car. Today, well-maintained examples command significant prices in the used car market, appealing to collectors who appreciate its blend of classic design, powerful performance, and exclusivity.
