The Fastest MG Ever?

This exciting project was launched on 28th May 1998. The MGF parentage is definitely present, although heavily disguised and MG Cars hope that a successful record attempt will give the car not only well-deserved status in its own right, but also to continue MG's place in record breaking history. In line with all other famous EXs that have attempted great speeds, the colour of EX255 (please note the significance of the code and hoped-for mph) is green. When questioned as to the name of this pale, almost pearlescent, shade, the answer was Andes Green (just remember the pilot's name). So there is a jovial side to the serious nature of producing the 'fastest MG in the world' as well!

Andy Green himself needed no persuading to get involved in the project. In fact it was he himself who approached MG Cars on learning of the scheme and offered his full support. Andy is actively involved not only in driving the car, but also in the development side of the project. His vast experience of taking cars and aircraft to their limits, coupled with his extensive engineering knowledge, has proved to be invaluable. Andy now drives an MGF as daily transport and claims he "loves it, the only draw back being the limited space for all the luggage I have to trek around the country with". This means paraphernalia including full flying suit, evening dress, uniform - whatever is needed for whichever function he is attending, but the little F and Andy always seem to look sleek, composed and immaculate at all times. Many inches over 6' tall, he admits the MGF cockpit to be 'snug' but certainly not a problem. Living in Scotland. He oozes 'Britishness', leaving one feeling that you could cut him in half and still find red, white and blue blood! A more apt man for the task of piloting EX255 could not be found.

If Andy finds his daily transport a MGF has a close fitting interior, then he will find EX255 literally 'made to measure'. This is concurrent with one of his predecessors Stirling Moss who also found the cockpit of EX181 "a close fit". When interviewed several years ago, Sterling Moss had vivid memories of his adventures in EX181. Sitting in that tight space moments before 'go', watching the mechanics screw down the hatch around me, there was no quick way out if anything had gone wrong" he remembered. Thankfully all had gone according to plan and of course today matters are a little different for record-breaking drivers. Their safety is paramount, justifiably taking precedence over any risk to achieve aims and goals. This, however, does not diminish the risks they are taking and it takes the same amount of raw courage and commitment to be a record breaker now as it ever did. The EX 181 driven by Stirling Moss reached 245.64 mph.

MG EX255 - General Specification
Body * Based on normal MGF bodyshell - painted in PPG 'Andes' Green * Wheelbase lengthened by 250mm in front of rear axle centre line * Body further extended by 400mm at rear with twin F18-style fins either side of bootlid extension * Left hand drive - left hand side gear shift * Underfloor modifications to improve aerodynamics - 3 stage step diffuser * Windscreen deleted - full tonneau with forward hinged canopy * Font body structure to rear bulkhead standard MGF steel construction * Unique space frame in 2" seamless mild steel tubing rear of bulkhead to house new power unit * Standard MGF steel panels for wings, bonnet and doors * Remaining demountable body panels in carbon fibre epoxy attached with Dzus fasteners.