Mazda MX-5 GT to enter the British Endurance Championship

The MX-5 GT is the lightest and most powerful MX-5 ever built, and Jota Sport spent 400 hours to ensure that the car's shell is 17 times stronger than the FIA's requirement. Jota Sport also removed the MX-5's interior parts, reduced some component weight, and dipped the shell in acid to shave off 15kg, for a total weight of just 850kg.

Under the bonnet, the MX-5 GT is powered by Mazda's 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit, which has been modified to produce 275bhp. Mated to a six-speed sequential paddle shift gearbox, the MX-5 GT is able to go from 0-100km/h in just 3 seconds, and reach a top speed of 257km/h. Other performance modifications include the upgraded suspension, competition alloy wheels and tires, and performance braking system.

Cosmetically, the MX-5 GT is painted in a Spirited Green metallic body colour, complimented by Jota Sport's corporate liveries in orange and grey. The carbon fibre doors open into an interior that features a roll cage,a fire extinguisher, competition steering wheel and a racing bucket seat.

"The MX-5 production race car's modest power output, bullet proof reliability and nimble handling demonstrated last year how the MX-5 can be competitive against some of the purpose-built Lotus, VW and BMW race cars," said Graeme Fudge, PR Director, Mazda UK.

"With a higher power output combined with the durability, reliability and handling attributes that the MX-5 is renowned for; the MX-5 GT race car will be strong contender against the more powerful race cars in its class," he concluded.