Mazda revealed today the race version of the MX5, called simply the GT, which will compete in the Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship 2011. The MX5 GT is a lightweight version of Mazda's factory MX5, that has also received several performance and handling modifications. Mazda will put the MX5 GT against the likes of Aston Martin, Porsche, Lotus, and BMW.
The Mazda MX5 GT weighs 850kg and is powered by a modified engine producing 275bhp which is mated to a six speed sequential paddle shift transmission. Apart from the new gearbox of the MX5 GT, Mazda also used carbon fiber doors and Polycarbonate windows. The weight saving program and the extra power result in some impressive performance figures for an MX5.
The official numbers say the Mazda MX5 GT is able to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3 seconds and to reach a top speed of 160 mph.
Jota Sport took 400 hours to build the shell of Mazda's MX5 GT, which is now 17 times stronger then required by the FIA. The Mazda MX5 GT features a new suspension, a lower mounted engine, and something to really set it apart - Spirited Green metallic body color with the orange and grey of Jota Sport's livery.
The Mazda MX5 GT also comes with all the equipment required by the FIA for this type of endurance racing. This includes a roll cage, race seats and harness, external electric cut-off and fire extinguisher, safety catches on the bonnet and boot lids, competition steering wheel and alloy wheels. The components that were enhanced for the GT, in comparison to the standard Mazda MX5, include the running gear, rear axle, gearbox and engine.
