T-230R to Debut as Course Car

Posted: July 25, 2000 9:33 AM

The T-230R is the first competition evolution of the highly acclaimed T-190 and T-230 road cars based on the Ford Focus and produced exclusively by GSE, Mountune and DPRS under the GMD banner for a limited number of Ford Dealers.

Extensive testing has produced startling results from a rally car designed with the Clubman in mind. The retail price is expected to be under £40,000 with running costs considerably lower than those of a club specification Cosworth or Group 4 Escort.

The T-230R, given its first public appearance at the Classic and Sports car show in April, has attracted many enquiries including a number of satellite teams keen to run a one make series for this vehicle during 2001. One team manager commented, “This car is the ideal training ground, and natural stepping stone between the proposed F3 category and WRC level as the car is both powerful and affordable. It is difficult for any driver, regardless of ability, to be expected to be competitive in a World Rally Car without experience of a powerful turbo charged car”.

The T-230R is expected to run at between 230 and 250bhp, dependent upon final specification and will be equipped with either a six speed sequential gear box or more conventional five speed H pattern for the proposed one make series.

Ireland is a firm favourite with the team who have always gained valuable test data on the demanding Irish roads. Development of the three door Sierra Cosworth and more recently the Escort Maxi, developed by GSE for Ford Motorsport, have benefited from extensive testing in Ireland and the Team hope that the T-230R’s development will also benefit from a comprehensive test exercise in Ireland.

Baz Cannon of GSE and David Paveley who will pilot the T-230R on the Clare Stages will undertake all initial test work. Support for the T-230 Rally Programme comes from Michelin, Team Dynamics and Cobra.