MG Lola Ex257 ready for Le Mans challenge

12 June 2002: MG returns to Le Mans this weekend to challenge in the 24-Heures du Mans endurance race. Following an encouraging period of development and spurred on by results at the official test last month the team are looking to put in a positive performance.

Final qualifying for the race takes places tomorrow evening, Thursday June 13, and the 24-Heures du Mans race commences at 1600hrs on Saturday June 15.

The two MG Lola EX257 sports cars, designed and built by Lola Cars International, are entered in the LMP675 class – the lightest qualification group. They are powered by the MG XPOWER 2-litre, four-cylinder turbo unit which has been developed by racing engine specialists Advanced Engine Research (AER). Chamberlain Motorsport have been responsible for the testing schedule and will strive for the smooth running of both sports cars during the race. Driving line up includes Kevin McGarrity, Jonny Kane and Anthony Reid (car 26) and Mark Blundell, Julian Bailey and Warren Hughes (car 27).

The cars will be clearly visible around the circuit in their distinctive green and XPOWER grey. This year also sees the vibrant flames of Hot Wheels Racing with additional support from Mobil 1, Michelin, Ramada Jarvis, MG Rover UK Dealers and St Modwen property developers.

Le Mans is 260 miles south west of Calais (130 miles from Paris). Most successful Le Mans driver is Jacky Ickx (Belgium) with six wins. The fastest ever race was run in 1971 at an average speed of 138.13mph.

June 2002