The MGC GTS was a special high-performance version of the MGC. Just two were built at the MG factory at Abingdon before the programme was discontinued – fortunately four additional lightweight MGC shells were constructed at the Competitions Department in period and sold on to John Chatham to finish them off.

With the development of the MGC GTS, the engineers started with the same core frame as the MGC but used aluminium roof, body and door panels (with flared fenders) to add wider tyres and reduce kerb weight. The engine was tuned for racing with triple Weber carburettors and a slew of upgrades that boosted horsepower to 220bhp – 75bhp over stock. Power is fed to the rear wheels via a four-speed box, it rides on independent front suspension, with a live rear axle (with semi-elliptical leaf springs), and it stops thanks to disc brakes on all four corners.

Along with the Le Mans, Nürburgring and Targa Florio races, the 12 Hour Florida International Grand Prix of Endurance at Sebring had become one of the world’s major tests of automotive excellence by the early 1960s. Success at Sebring could give a new sports car instant credibility and the massive American market was the focus of all car makers at the time. With reasonable success at Sebring, it was little wonder that the track name was tagged onto MG.

This Example

This homage to the MGC GTS is based on a 1972 MGB GT and powered by a 3.5-litre V8 rather than a six-pot. It has been completely rebuilt and is in excellent condition, having not raced since being redone (200km ago). The 3.5 Rover V8 has had extensive work done (including boring) to get it up to 300bhp, and this is put to the rear wheels via a five-speed Toyota Cressida gearbox and limited slip differential. Stopping action comes from Willwood discs and callipers. A set of new semi-slick tyres clothe some new alloy rims and the rubber is kept on the road thanks to full race suspension. An FIA-spec roll cage, polycarbonate windows, race seats and more have been added. Huge money has been spent on this car - it must be seen!

Please note: no papers as this is purely a race car.

Available to view by appointment in Johannesburg. Click here to view the lot.

Reminders to bidders:

• A buyer's premium of 5% (which includes VAT) for cars and bikes applies.
• The minimum buyer's premium is R5 000 incl. VAT for cars and bikes (eg. if R50 000 is bid, buyer's premium = R5 000 and total cost = R55 000).
• The maximum buyer's premium is capped at R100 000 incl. VAT for cars and bikes (eg. if R3 000 000 is bid, buyer's premium = R100 000 and total cost = R3 100 000).
• Classic Car Africa aims to present each lot as accurately as possible but it is the responsibility of the bidder to be 100% satisfied with the condition of the lot before placing a bid.