2001 - 2004 MG Lola EX257 - Images, Specifications and Information

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With the demise of Group C at the end of 1993, the age of prototype racing seemed to be over. All eyes were now on the production based GT cars that the sport's governing body believed would attract more spectators200. Led by the Ferrari 333 SP, a new generation of racing cars evolved in the background. Quickly labelled 'Le Mans Prototypes' these were predominantly raced in North America and at Le Mans. This revival opened new doors for specialized manufacturers like Lola. In 1998 they launched their first sports car since 1992. In the following years the British company supplied chassis for privateer teams, until MG commissioned the construction of a brand new chassis for the LMP675 class. Known internally at Lola as the 'B01/60', the new sports racer was officially dubbed the MG EX257 and together with the EX258 rally car and EX259 touring car was part of an ambitious racing program of the recently reborn manufacturer.

The EX257 was the first Lola designed specifically for the LMP675 regulations, which compared to the bigger LMP900 class combined a lower weight with smaller engines. In theory the lower weight was enough to compromise for the smaller engine and both classes would be able to fight for on equal terms. Although it was a brand new design, Lola's engineers clearly carried over elements from their previous designs. However compared to its predecessors, the new car's lines were noticeably sharper. The most distinct aerodynamic features were the separate front fenders, which were reminiscent of the ill-fated Allard J2X-C. The Julian Sole penned carbon fibre panels covered a convential monocoque chassis, suspended by double wishbones all around. Power was provided by an MG badged version of AER's 2-litre turbo engine. With restrictors fitted, it was good for around 500 bhp in 2001.

Two cars were completed in time for the official Le Mans test in May of 2001. It was for from a trouble free session for the brightly liveried machines. One car did not manage to complete a timed lap, while the other clocked the 25th fastest time. After qualifying a more promising 14th and 17th, the two cars were out with engine problems after less than 100 laps were completed. Much better prepared the MG Lolas were very impressive during qualifying for the 2002 Le Mans, setting the 6th and 12th time. The two cars were almost ten seconds ahead of the third fastest LMP675, which was a privately entered MG Lola. During the race, the fragility of the light and nimble Lola once again saw the race end prematurely. The LMP675 cars could indeed compete with the larger LMP900s on outright performance, but to keep the weight down to many compromises had to be made, which negatively affected reliability. At the end of the year MG announced their retirement and the cars were sold to privateer teams.

In the following years teams like Dyson, Intersport and RML campaigned the MG Lolas, at times showcasing the machines' true potential. Particularly successful was the Dyson team, who campaigned a two-car team in the American Le Mans Season from 2003 to 2005. The twistier North American tracks and the shorter races clearly suited the nimble Lola. With the EX257 the small team managed to beat the mighty Audi R8s at least once every season. In Europe the RML team held up MG's honours, scoring several points finished in the newly established Le Mans Endurance Series. They also raced at Le Mans alongside the American Intersport team, but the demanding track again proved too much for the fast but fragile Lola to handle. In attempt to cure the reliability issues, Intersport fitted a Judd V8 engine, but it made little difference.

Rule changes left the EX257 / B01/60 pretty much obsolete in 2005, so it was no surprise that Lola launched a replacement for that season. Built to race in the new LMP2 class for privateers, the new B05/40 was no longer expect to fight for overall victory. One of the first customers was RML, who continued their relationship with MG and rehomologated their new racing car as the MG Lola EX264. Along with other Lola customers, they dominated the 'P2' class in Europe. Lolas clinched the Le Mans Series title three years running and won their class at Le Mans in 2005, 2006 and 2007. With several ALMS victories the MG Lola EX257 was a successful racer, although its achievements were overshadowed by its contemporaries and its replacement.

Featured are two of the five chassis completed by Lola. A sixth car was ordered, but never paid for and subsequently not built. Pictured in the first six shots is the first chassis, which was first used by the MG works team and then sold to Intersport. After its racing career, it was bought back by Lola and restored to its original configuration. It is shown above during the 2008 Goodwood Festival of Speed where Lola's fiftieth anniverary was celebrated. In the remaining shots the second EX257 is shown. It was raced by MG at Le Mans twice before being sold to RML. In their easily recognisable livery, it is shown at the official test at Le Mans in 2004 and during the 2004 Spa 1000 km, where it finished sixth after qualifying fifth.