1969 MG

In 1967, MG decided to get seriously involved in motor racing. They built a wild version of the MGB called the 'GTS' to promote the brand and renew MG's image with this powerful model. Just as Jaguar built the Lightweight E-Types, MG created an aluminium body and a full aluminium engine based on the 3.0-litre Austin-Healey unit, producing 220 HP and bringing the weight down to close to 900 kg.

Two of these very special cars, nicknamed 'Mable' (MBL 546E) and 'Romeo' (RMO 699F), were entered in the Sebring 12 Hours, where they soon became known as the 'MGs Sebring'. They achieved an impressive 10th overall finish, won their class and secured the best result ever achieved by an MG at Sebring. After another Sebring 12 Hours in 1968 and the Targa Florio, MG, now part of BMC, withdrew from the project. Only six chassis were built, with enough parts and engines to complete them all.

In 1969, John Chatham — a renowned Austin-Healey racing driver from the 1960s — bought the last four chassis from the factory and finished building them.

He kept MGC chassis 500757 for himself to race and use as his personal race car. In a letter written in 2005 to the car's new owner, the legendary figure stated:

« This is to certify that I John Chatham built four Sebring aluminium bodied race MGC's ni 1969. One of which is chassis no MGC 500757.

This car was built with all the latest experimental parts which include:

Engine with aluminium head and block

Straight cut gears

Competition overdrive

Limited slip differential

4 wheel disc brakes with aluminium 3 part callipers

wheels 15 x 10's

The engine, with 3 45 webber carbs, was moved back to improve the balance of the car.

I entered the Mod Sports Race Series with this car in 1970, 1971 and 1972. »

This car is rumoured to be the fastest and most advanced MGC GTS ever built, featuring unique specifications. John Chatam carefully kept this fabulous MG as a dear souvenir from his racing career until 2005.

In 2010, the car was completely restored from the bare chassis, with no expense spared in the process. A few pictures show the magnificent bare aluminium body and the perfect workmanship evident in the panel fit and finish.

The MGC GTS changed hands in 2014 and displayed in our customer’s fabulous collection. To our knowledge, the car has never been raced since its restoration. It is presented today in absolutely perfect technical and cosmetic condition, attesting to the very high quality of the work performed at the time and the great care it has received over the last 16 years.

The car drives surprisingly smoothly for a racing car and handles very well thanks to its low weight. The soundtrack of the six-cylinder engine would make every ride an unforgettable experience.

500757 is a remarkable opportunity to acquire an ultra-rare and exciting 1960s GT race car and is undoubtedly a must for any MG or British sports car collector.