GD T70:CKC Guide 2009
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GD T70
GARDNER DOUGLAS SPORTS CARS has built on the enviable reputation established with its GD 427 by launching (in 2002) another 1960s inspired supercar, the GD T70. Taking its inspiration from the mighty Lola T70 CanAm racer of the period, Gardner Douglas has given it a typically modern twist with an utterly contemporary spaceframe chassis and suspension package. Tweaking the styling has also endowed the T70 with greater interior cockpit space as well as allowing the flowing styling to meet with modern IVA regulations. The T70 is a more focused machine than GD’s 427, with track days and serious competition being its core interest while also offering a roadlegal driving environment like nothing else! Mid-engined power is provided by small-block V8 engines, with the preferred choice being the latest GM LS V8, available through GD’s GM engine division (www.lspower.co.uk). Weighing under 900kg with 450 to 650bhp available, the GD T70 offers true supercar performance. As you might expect, this isn’t a car with any single donor. All the parts are either made in-house or carefully chosen from a small number of mainstream suppliers. Gardner Douglas’ impressive Nottinghamshire based factory is where both chassis and bodies are produced, along with kit preparation, partial builds and turnkey cars. If you needed any further convincing as to the company’s abilities, a visit to the factory is where you’ll find it.
SPECIFICATION CHASSIS: Multi-tubular spaceframe panelled in NS4 aluminium. BODYWORK: Pre-coloured GRP panels in standard or high performance materials. DONOR CAR: None. All new parts. ENGINE OPTIONS: Ford and Chevrolet small-block V8s including latest LS units. SUSPENSION: Front – GD cast alloy uprights using lower wishbones and upper rocking wishbones operating inboard horizontally mounted coil-over dampers. Rear – GD cast alloy uprights using upper wishbones and rocking lower wishbones operating inboard coil-over dampers. STEERING: GD steering rack, two turns lock to lock. BRAKES: AP 4-pot calipers with 13in ventilated discs all-round. KIT PRICE: Chassis £2950, bodywork £3250 (all prices plus VAT). BUDGET BUILD COST: From £25,000 excluding engine and transmission. Watch the GD T70 in action on the Nurburgring: http://tinyurl.com/2avgz9r
SUMMARY – A hardcore offering for those seeking seriously high levels of performance driving. The GD T70 is not only beautifully styled, but also beautifully engineered and finished.
Gardner Douglas Sports Cars, Unit 26, Roseland Business Park, Long Bennington, Newark, Nottinghamshire NG23 5FF T: 01949 843299 E: sales@gdcars.com W: www.gdcars.com
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