Car appreciation... the aesthetics, the engineering, etc

I don't think it is.
Time Attack drivers generally wear helmets and earplugs, not Ear Defenders from B&Q. I do generally 'stay away', but even I know that TA cars generally also have a lot more aero development than this thing.
It looks more like a Time Attack Enthusiast car.

Start reading from the new photos. That car is no more. You aren't the only one who felt the way you did. Completely parted out and rebuilt.

It's been a long time - Novak Racing's GC8 - NASIOC