MALVERN-based Morgan Motor Company's keenly anticipated new GT(N) racer made its official debut at the 2002 Autosport International Show last weekend

The new GT(N) racer has been developed from the acclaimed Aero 8 road car under the guidance of Chief Development Engineer and 1962 Le Mans 24-hour class winner, Christopher Lawrence. It will feature a Heini Mader prepared M62 BMW V8 engine which will produce in the region of 500bhp, a weight of under 1000kgs, a carbon fibre hard top and aerodynamic alterations to the original shape.

The GT(N) production sports car has already been fully homologated by the FIA and approved by the Automobile Club de L'Ouest (ACO), organiser of the Le Mans 24-hour, ensuring its eligibility for international racing.

Managing director, Charles Morgan, said: "Motor racing has been an important part of the Morgan heritage from the outset when my grandfather, HFS Morgan, designed the three-wheel 'runabout' which won the French Grand Prix in 1913.

"Now that the Aero 8 has entered full production, we've turned our attention and expertise back to the track to develop what I am sure will be a truly successful international racer."

The price ex-factory is around £180,000, and the race car will be built by a dedicated specialist team at Malvern completely separately from the main production line. Delivery time is four weeks from order.