T.33

Segment
Coupe

Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA) has been putting the T.50 through its paces in Sweden to see how the V12-powered supercar handles cold weather and deep snow.

While it looks like an immense amount of fun, chief test driver Gareth Howell explains that extreme winter testing is essential to perfecting the T.50. It's unlikely that any future owners will ever choose to tackle icy, snow-covered roads but, as Howell explains, the automaker needs to ensure customers can "choose to take your T.50 to one extreme or the other."

It's also a great way to evaluate the T.50's various safety systems. With temperatures reaching -25 degrees Celsius (-13°F), one would think a fragile supercar would be frightened by the harsh weather. According to Howell, the T.50 didn't miss a beat. Not that we're surprised - we've already seen how harsh other testing protocols have been.

Working closely with Continental, the team was able to fine-tune the electronic stability control system. "We've worked on some really good modes in the car, full ESP mode as well as a sport reduced mode which still gives you a safety net but allows you to play with the car a bit more."

With all the nannies switched off, GMA's chief tester explains that the team also took the T.50 out in the snow to see what it's like without ESP. As you would expect from a masterpiece of engineering created by one of the great automotive minds of our time, the supercar is easy to control.

"It didn't miss a beat," continues Howell. "We were doing long drives and had loads of confidence in it. We had no breakdowns, even in those conditions, which is fantastic. That was our first time in those conditions."

With a naturally-aspirated 3.9-liter V12 capable of 12,100 rpm, the GMA T.50 produces up to 690 horsepower and is capable of hitting 60 mph in under three seconds. The engine is a work of art and produces a sound so mellifluous it could bring a tear to any gearhead's eye.

Sadly, the T.50 won't be making it to the USA. Unfortunately, the central driving position doesn't cut the mustard here in the United States, and, as such, the vehicle isn't road legal. The T.33, however, will be coming to America - but don't get your hopes up about that, either. Just 100 will be made, and the entire allocation is already sold out.