History
The MGB GT Sebring project car was to be built on the basis of duplicating a road registered version of the British historic 1962 light-weight factory built MGC GT (6 cylinder alloy motor), of which 3 only were ever built for endurance racing, i.e. 24 hour Le Mans/12 Hour Sebring USA etc. It is worthwhile noting that of the 3 cars built, only one complete car is in existence in Texas, USA.
My goal was achieved after some 6 years of development and building providing me with an appreciation of the original MGB GT Sebring’s performance.
Modifications
The replica build project objective was to establish a similar power to weight ratio to the original car, and this involved significant weight reduction in the standard MGB GT. An achievable weight reduction of approx. 180 kilos was embarked upon by way of introducing alloy and fibreglass materials to replace steel components - items such as alloy fuel tank, alloy wheels, engine components, radiator and removal of front and rear bumper bars and their supports etc.
A significant horse power increase was required, and to develop a reliable and drivable 4 cylinder engine this increased horse power was by way of forced induction coupled with an integrated methanol/water injection system (50-50 ratio). A final horse power rating of 180 at the flywheel was achieved, and all this engine performance was harnessed by way of upgrade in gear box differential, braking and suspension modifications, all of which were introduced in the final project car. The end result was an MGB GT which possessed fantastic driving characteristics with precision handling and performance.
