1984 MG Metro Turbo

The introduction of the MG Metro Turbo at the 1982 Birmingham Motor Show was the first hint that the company viewed the little Metro as anything other than a 'bread and butter' city car, and it would have taken a lot of foresight to envision the competition successes that were but a few years away. The new model benefited from some input from Lotus Engineering Race Technology (nitrided steel crank and sodium-cooled exhaust valves) and the introduction of a Garret T3 Turbocharger persuaded the middle-aged 'A' Series to release a class leading 93bhp. The Garrett turbocharger was probably the single key factor that allowed the Metro Turbo to be developed into the 230bhp crowd-pleasing, flame-belching and crackling racer that was to become synonymous with British Touring Cars in the mid-eighties.

Other positive features included powerful servo assisted brakes using four-pot calipers, ventilated discs up front, and stiffer suspension. The 'MG Turbo' also sported a new body kit utilising a front spoiler and four wheel arch extensions that neatly balanced the MG Metro rear spoiler and this, together with the use of Turbo-specific larger 13" alloy wheels and low-profile tyres, enhanced the car's looks considerably.

Offered here is a remarkably original MG Metro Turbo with just 7,317 miles covered from new and represents a wonderful opportunity for an MG collector. It was ordered new by its first owner Mr. H.W Lamont, who kept it for thirty years, and was a special factory order that included colour-coded bodywork, mainly to the lower half, a look that obviously impressed somebody as it subsequently became standard on the MKII in early 1985. The factory also painted the wiper arms, mirrors, and grille. Lex Mead, the supplying dealer, were so impressed that they persuaded Mr. Lamont to delay collecting the car and the Turbo remained displayed in their showroom for quite some time attracting much admiration and, we would guess, a few orders. Remaining in fabulous condition, the car was awarded first prize in a couple of car-club Concours d'Elegance events in 2000 and 2001 before being professionally stored. Its equally proud second owner continued to cherish the car for another two years.

The history file is absolutely complete including full service details with all the MOT Certificates substantiating the indicated 7,317 miles. It's complete with all documentation and even its original unused wheels and tyres as the owner wanted to ensure its total originality. The original Dunlops are as new with the little mould flashes still sticking out.

The condition of this MG Metro Turbo can only be described as "show-stopping" and it's a fascinating part of British Leyland history and, with hindsight, probably played the pivotal role in 'morphing' the Metro from a 1.1litre shopping car into Leyland's most successful competition car ever.