MG Sports Cars

Looks like I'm heading for a 302/T5/8.8 conversion with my 72 GT. Just curious what the benchmark is for the the best looking/cleanest conversion. Not that my skills are quite there, but looking for ideas for what makes a head turner to you guys/gals. I think I've read a zillion how it was done articles and hit the photo gallery. What features trip your trigger? Photos appreciated!

Gee... I like mine best.

Except if I did it again, I'd use a bigger engine, fuel injection, smoother shifting tranny, and lighter weight rear axle. (The 8.8 is kinda heavy - but it was a good deal.) I'd probably spend more time up front on proper rust repair, or else start with a cleaner tub. I would definitely bring the headers through the fenders, RV8 style. You're definitely on track with the chrome bumper GT shell!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/06/2008 12:47AM by Moderator.

Tom, for me it's all in the details. Everything has to look like it "grew" there. Excess wiring in the engine compartment is rerouted and hidden, hoses routed neatly. If worm drive hose clamps are used, they should all be oriented the same way if possible. Chrome or polish isn't necessary, but painted things should be smooth.
Sticking with a "theme" is also nice. A polished brass radiator tank is beautiful, but if it's the only brass item under the hood then it really sort of looks out of place, a nicely detailed cover might be more in keeping with the theme of the car.
There are a couple of cars that have that certain "thing" that grabbed my attention the first time I saw them. one is Bill Jacobson's car with it's new blown engine. That compartment is stunning, follows a good theme. [www.britishv8.org]
The other car that really looks great even unfinished is Dan Master's GT. Even in the construction shots you can see the attention to detail of design, The custom body touches such as the front turn signals are slick. Check the routing of the exhaust pipes, some thought went in there. [www.advanceautowire.com]
Another car that I think is stunning is John Mangle's MGA. Not flashy, but very well put together. [www.britishv8.org]
I think that gives you the idea of what makes my heart go pitter pat. Of course I don't follow my own ideas when I build my own cars, but I did try to keep things as neat as possible under the hood, rewrapping the modified harness in colored tape to match the body was one small touch. I did hide as much of the wiring as I could and routed the hoses as neatly as possible within the tight confines of the Midget compartment. [www.britishv8.org]

Like Bill said, if you are looking to benchmark a V8GT, keep you eyes on Dan Masters car!

It's all the little things -- clean engine bay like Bill mentions; also things like where your tires line up to the body; fit & finish; interior details; etc., etc.

The link to my car is [www.advanceautowire.com]

I just talked to Ted today, and he's bringing the car back from the paint shop Monday, and then the uholstery shop will start on it.

You may make it, yet, Dan !

Dan,
I've been following your build. Your GT looks fantastic, even in primer. I love the frenched in beehive signals. Great attention to detail. Can't wait for more pics.

Taken today.

engine bay.

Woohoo! It's GREEN!!!!

Downhill now,

Wow - that car will be magnificent!

Dan, the car looks great....I love the color...and a front crossmember to match! Doesn't get any better than that!

Dan,

It looks awesome.......WOW.

Looks good Dan!

Bill

Dan,

I believe your car build will turn quit a few heads and make rubber neckers as they double take.

Very Sharp Looking! Great Looking Flairs!

Calvin

Dan,

Are those what you call Omni flares?

I dawned on me the other day that a Dodge Omni is what we know as a Chrysler/Talbot Horizon. I can't remember when I last saw one.

David

Yes, Dodge Omni/Plymouth Horizon.

Very nice! Looks like clearance is tight for air cleaner. Does it clear the hood - c hood?

t.lay Wrote:
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> Very nice! Looks like clearance is tight for air
> cleaner. Does it clear the hood - c hood?

The air cleaner was custom made for this car by Ted, using a standard B hood.