Gordon Murray Automotive’s T.50S: A Track-Only Monster with Refinement and Raw Power

Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA) is building just 25 units of the T.50S, a track-focused supercar designed to deliver unparalleled driver engagement. The car is powered by a Cosworth V12 engine and weighs a mere 1,878 lbs (852 kg), making it one of the lightest and most agile machines in its class.

While the T.50S presents an intimidating visual presence, it is engineered with a surprising level of refinement. This approach aligns with the philosophy of legendary F1 designer Gordon Murray, who prioritizes driver enjoyment over sheer speed alone. The T.50S, GMA’s current flagship, shares its name with the road-going T.50 but is fundamentally different in design and purpose.

Dario Franchitti, a former racing driver, highlighted the minimal carryover components between the T.50 and T.50S. The only shared parts include the headlights, taillights, windshield, and the Cosworth V12 block, though the latter is heavily upgraded for the track-focused model.

Driving Impressions: A Shockingly Approachable Beast

Chris Harris, veteran journalist and presenter, recently drove the T.50S at the historic Top Gear Test Track. His experience revealed a car that is as approachable as it is extreme. The Cosworth V12 delivers linear power delivery, ensuring predictable and controllable acceleration. Harris noted the engine’s smoothness, despite being solidly mounted to the carbon fiber chassis—a rarity in such focused machines.

Performance and Weight: The Secret to Agility

The T.50S’s lightweight construction is a key factor in its performance. At 1,878 lbs (852 kg), it is significantly lighter than competitors like the Aston Martin Valkyrie, which weighs 2,271 lbs (1,030 kg). Even the Valkyrie’s track-focused AMR Pro version is only 66 lbs (30 kg) lighter. This low weight allows the T.50S to dart through corners with ease and accelerate rapidly on straights, building speed effortlessly as the V12 revs out.

Exclusivity and Market Impact

Production of the T.50S is strictly limited to 25 units, all of which have already been sold. Given the soaring resale value of the road-going T.50, it is expected that the T.50S will command a premium in the secondary market, further enhancing its exclusivity.