Omicron Engineering was founded in 1981 by Martin Cliffe as his current employers, Lotus Cars, was potentially going to be toppled as part of the fallout from the DeLorean scandal and the uncertainty regarding the future of Lotus following the death of Colin Chapman.
Initially work concentrated on Engineering Consultancy within the automotive sector; turbocharger conversions of normally aspirated engines, primarily Mercedes diesels; and the restoration of classic cars. Classic car restoration was initially carried out on Italian marques such as Lamborghini, Ferrari, Maserati as well as Aston Martin, but over the years this has shifted towards Lancia, which Martin was always interested in personally and regarded as being superior in their design and engineering over the other Italian marques. Over time the classic car world has also come to appreciate Lancia’s engineering excellence and is gradually reclaiming its position in the market that it has always deserved.
Initially work was undertaken from buildings at Martin’s house, but with the expansion of the parts department we took on an industrial unit for a short period, but both were transferred to The Long Barn in the early 1990’s purchasing the repossessed property from the bank. We had initially tried to buy the property in 1987, but this all fell through on the same week that the Great Storm ravaged England, and the Stock Market crashed. A sign perhaps?
We have always had an interest in Motorsport and our cars have been used on race circuits, rally stages and hill climbs with lots of success. Most recent success has been with modern Formula 3 cars in both the Monoposto Racing Club and MSV F3 Cup.
Martin and Elizabeth took a step back during the Covid-19 lockdowns, slightly under protest, and the running of the business is now shared between Andrew and Tristan. Martin and Elizabeth continue to be directors and major shareholders and act as Consultants advising the team where necessary.
Guiding Lights
Martin Cliffe J.P., B.Sc. (Hons.), C.Eng., M.I.Mech.E
Elizabeth Cliffe
Office Administration and Parts
Andrew Cliffe, Tristan Cliffe, Jenny & Rachael
Mechanical Workshop
Tristan, Julian, Andy, Ben & Jonathan
Bodyshop, Fabrication & Metalwork
Nico & Chris
Company doorbell
Evie the dog (a Cockerpoo). Parker the Bernese Mountain Dog stays home with Martin and Elizabeth.