Britain's MG Brings Back the Classic GT Layout

While the next generation of TF roadster is still a few years away, engineers and market analysts at MG wanted a model to bridge the

Inspired by the trendy 1960s MGB GT, the 2004 MG GT Concept was born. (Photo: MG Rover Group)

waiting period, and tide over buyers until the next model arrives. They found that the most logical and cost-effective way of injecting new life into the aging vehicle was to explore the 'fixed head' market.

Adding a hardtop model would attract buyers who desired the sporty look of the TF but did not want to give up the practicality of an all-year-round vehicle, or lose out on trunk space. Inspired by the trendy 1960s MGB GT, a swoopy coupe variant of the popular MGB roadster, the 2004 MG GT Concept was born.

The MG GT Concept is more than a TF roadster with a hardtop roof, but rather it

The GT features an extensive aerodynamics kit that includes an extended front air dam with air splitters, foglamps and air intakes to keep the nose to the ground. (Photo: MG Rover Group)

offers several exterior modifications to enhance driving performance. The GT features an extensive aerodynamics kit that includes an extended front air dam with air splitters, foglamps and air intakes to keep the nose to the ground. This results in improved downforce, and therefore better high speed maneuverability.

The lengthened front end is balanced out by a larger spoiler integrated into the rear decklid as well as a new rear valance that highlights the twin cannon-style exhaust pipes. The GT Concept also features a set of 'Gunsmoke'-colored 17-inch OZ wheels, similar in design to those featured on the SV X-Power supercar.