Mazda MX-5 GT cranks up the intensity
This is the MX-5 we'd love to get our paws on... but it's destined purely for racetrack dutyMazda's original (1989) MX-5 was a prime example of the less-is-more formula espoused by Lotus founder Colin Chapman, tipping the scales at just 940kg. Even the modern-day version is no fatty at just over 1100kg, but the car pictured alongside is a distinctly more appealing proposition.
You're looking at the MX-5 GT, a super-lightweight version of the evergreen roadster that's been bolted together for the 2011 Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship.
The car was designed and built by UK-based racecar specialists Jota Sport, and a key element of the mods was to rip out every gram of excess fat.
Result? The MX-5 GT weighs just 850kg, thanks to measures such as carbonfibre doors, polycarbonate windows and a barebones interior that's also been treated to a carbonfibre-intensive diet.
Additionally, the bodyshell is dipped in an acid bath, as this allegedly brings a further weight reduction.
Other notable elements include lightweight Sparco race seats, an Alcantara-trimmed Momo steering wheel and a full rollcage that complies with FIA regulations.
The weight savings alone would bring a healthy performance boost over the stock MX-5, but it doesn't end there, as the 2.0-litre engine has also been reworked to thrash out 205kW -- a huge improvement on the 118kW eked out by the showroom version.
The engine sits lower in the chassis, while drive is channelled to the rear wheels by a six-speed sequential gearbox.
Its makers claim the race-ready MX-5 GT can sprint from standstill to 100km/h in a whisker over 3sec (on par with the latest Porsche 911 Turbo), while top whack is said to be around the 260km/h mark.
The car will be seen in action during this year's nine-round Britcar championship, with one of the rounds due to be held at Belgium's daunting Spa circuit.
There's no word on whether Jota Sport will make the car available for other purposes, but it seems to us the MX-5 GT would be a very handy weapon for events such as Targa Tasmania.
It would probably also be quite entertaining on ice...
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