actually a reverse "buck" works really well to give lots of detail to a vacuum formed body. the problem is creating said "buck". there are rubber compounds which can be poured around a body, like a hot wheels, matchbox, etc. but I don't know where to get it.
and the fact is that even with a vacuum, you are still actually using pressure to do the work.
removing the air from under the "buck" allows the normal barometric pressure to push down on the hot, melted plastic and form the body. it is just the speed at which you remove the air and volume of air removed that gives the illusion of a vacuum.
and you are correct, although the toughest material, Lexan also has a higher melting point and usually distorts from the very beginning of the sag. this is why most folk use other materials. styrene, for instance, melts at a much lower temperature and holds the heat well while "pulling" the plastic over the "buck". all in all, it is really just a lot of work and such bodies are usually only desired by racers wanting to go really fast and just have a 'cover' over their chassis to reduce air resistance.
too much?
LOL