Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA) has officially unveiled the T.33, a highly anticipated supercar designed to offer a more accessible and refined experience compared to its predecessor, the T.50. Priced at approximately $1.85 million, the T.33 combines a naturally aspirated 607-hp V-12 engine with the highly sought-after option of a manual transmission, promising a unique blend of performance and driver engagement for enthusiasts worldwide.
A Vision of Elegant Minimalism
Gordon Murray, the visionary behind iconic vehicles like the new McLaren F1, has always prioritized function and driver experience. The T.33 exemplifies this philosophy, eschewing aggressive wings and excessive intakes for a design characterized by elegant minimalism. As Murray stated during a preview, “There is nothing on this car that doesn’t have a function.” This commitment to purposeful design extends to every detail, including the cleverly integrated GMA logo that discreetly conceals the dihedral door handle.
Lightweight Construction and Dynamic Prowess
Despite its slightly increased weight compared to the T.50, the T.33 is engineered to remain exceptionally light, a hallmark of Gordon Murray’s creations. Its carbon bodywork is mounted to a novel central structure featuring honeycomb carbon-fiber panels bonded to an aluminum framework. GMA’s rigorous “mass track” meetings ensure meticulous scrutiny of every component, targeting an impressive curb weight of just 2400 pounds. The suspension system utilizes unequal-length control arms at each corner, with direct mounting to the rear gearbox. Notably, the T.33 foregoes adaptive dampers and even a rear anti-roll bar, reflecting a focus on pure, unadulterated driving dynamics.
The Heart of the Beast: A Naturally Aspirated V-12
Powering the T.33 is a Cosworth-developed 4.0-liter V-12 engine, closely related to the unit found in the T.50. This naturally aspirated powerhouse delivers 607 horsepower at a thrilling 10,500 rpm, with a rev limit set at 11,100 rpm. While peak torque of 332 pound-feet arrives at a lofty 9000 rpm, GMA claims an accessible 250 pound-feet of torque is available from as low as 2500 rpm, ensuring strong drivability. The engine itself is a marvel of engineering, weighing just 392 pounds and featuring a unique ram induction system with a periscope intake mounted directly to the engine, allowing it to move with revs, creating a “shaker hood” effect.
Transmission Choices: Manual Purity or Seamless Automation
GMA offers buyers the choice between a six-speed manual or an automated gearbox, both meticulously crafted by British specialist Xtrac. Power is sent to the rear axle via a limited-slip differential. The manual transmission is a direct evolution of the T.50’s acclaimed unit, while the paddle-shift transmission employs Xtrac’s Instantaneous Gearchange System for incredibly swift and seamless shifts. Intriguingly, the automated gearbox is slightly lighter than the manual. Reflecting the enduring appeal of driver involvement, Murray notes that early demand has overwhelmingly favored the manual transmission, with a significant majority of pre-sold cars opting for the stick shift.
Aerodynamic Innovation and Practicality
While the T.33 omits the T.50’s active fan-assisted diffuser, it still incorporates sophisticated aerodynamic principles. A milder form of ground-effects assistance is achieved through the underbody diffuser, complemented by a pivoting rear flap that modulates airflow for enhanced downforce and stability.
The interior, though not fully finalized on the styling model, echoes the ergonomic excellence of the T.50. The two-seat layout features intuitive rotary controls and a prominent analog tachometer. Practicality is also a key consideration, with ample cabin storage and a total of 9 cubic feet of luggage space, including front and rear compartments.
Murray envisions the T.33 as more than just a supercar; he describes it as a “GT supercar” intended for longer journeys. With a claimed range of 450 miles on a single tank and substantial luggage capacity, it is designed to be used and enjoyed on extended trips. The car’s compact dimensions – measuring 173.2 inches in length and 72.9 inches in width – ensure agility on tighter roads, comparable to a Porsche 718 Cayman. Ease of ownership is further enhanced by a 6000-mile service interval, easily accessible underbody panels for maintenance, and the use of standard Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, avoiding the need for bespoke, manufacturer-specific rubber.
Performance Without Pressure
Gordon Murray intentionally avoids setting specific performance targets for the T.33, emphasizing the joy of the driving experience over mere numbers. He states that the car possesses a power-to-weight ratio “just a bit shy of a Ferrari LaFerrari,” guaranteeing exhilarating performance without fixating on quantifiable metrics like 0-60 mph times. The combination of its lightweight construction, potent V-12 engine, and the availability of a manual gearbox makes the T.33 an exceptionally compelling proposition for discerning automotive collectors and driving enthusiasts.
As Gordon Murray aptly puts it, “What’s the point of owning a car like this if you can’t enjoy it, or get scared of using it?” The T.33 appears poised to deliver precisely that enjoyment.
References:
- Gordon Murray Automotive. (n.d.). T.33 supercar revealed. Retrieved from Car and Driver