Connaught Type-D GT Syracuse: 100-Unit British Revival GT

The Connaught Type-D GT Syracuse stands as a testament to British engineering ingenuity, blending historic racing heritage with cutting-edge automotive design. This limited-edition sports coupe, hand-crafted by a revived Connaught Motor Company, honors the marque’s landmark 1955 victory at the Syracuse Grand Prix, the first post-war Grand Prix win for a British car driven by Tony Brooks. With production capped at just 100 units, the Syracuse Edition promises exclusivity, blistering performance, and a driving experience that harkens back to the golden era of motorsport while embracing modern lightweight materials and powertrain innovation.

Historical Roots: From 1950s Glory to Modern Rebirth

Connaught’s story begins in the post-World War II era, when the small British constructor disrupted the racing world. In 1955, their Type B-Alta, piloted by Tony Brooks, clinched victory at Syracuse, etching the name into motorsport history as the first British car to win a Grand Prix after the war. The brand faded but was resurrected in 2002 by a team of seasoned engineers, including former Jaguar Land Rover specialist Tim Bishop, who sought to bring Connaught back to global markets with contemporary flair.

The Type-D GT Syracuse, unveiled around 2006, marks the 50th anniversary of that triumph. Based in Daventry, Northamptonshire, the company aimed to produce a grand tourer that combines rarity with usability. Unlike mass-produced supercars, this 2+2 coupe prioritizes balance, agility, and a nod to its racing forebears, setting it apart in a market dominated by German heavyweights.

Revolutionary Powertrain: The Narrow-Angle Supercharged V10

At the heart of the Syracuse lies a bespoke 2.0-liter V10 engine, a marvel of compact design with cylinder banks angled at just 22 degrees—allowing it to fit under a single cylinder head, inspired by legendary Lancia racing engines. Supercharged for explosive delivery, it produces 300bhp at 7,000rpm and 274lb-ft of torque at 3,300rpm, yielding a specific output of 150bhp per liter. This power propels the featherweight coupe to a claimed top speed of 170mph (273km/h), with a power-to-weight ratio exceeding 315bhp per tonne.

Designed in-house by Tim Bishop, the front-longitudinal-mounted V10 features DOHC valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and electronic fuel injection. Its narrow-angle configuration not only reduces size and weight but also enhances efficiency, theoretically capable of hitting top speed from top gear alone. While early concepts hinted at hybrid assistance for further optimization, the production-focused Syracuse emphasizes pure internal combustion purity.

This table highlights the V10’s compact potency, making the Syracuse a unique proposition among supercars reliant on larger V8s or turbocharged sixes.

Chassis and Body: Lightweight Agility Redefined

Engineered for precision, the Type-D employs a lightweight composite and stainless steel spaceframe clad in hand-formed aluminum body panels. At a curb weight of just 950kg (2,094lbs), it rivals the agility of a Mazda Miata despite seating four in a 2+2 layout. The front-mid engine positioning, low center of gravity, and ideal 50/50 weight distribution ensure neutral handling and razor-sharp responses.

Suspension is by double wishbones front and rear, paired with rack-and-pinion steering for direct feel. Brakes are large vented and grooved discs at all corners, providing confident stopping power. A flat undertray generates downforce for stability at triple-digit speeds, eliminating the need for a rear wing and preserving sleek lines. Dimensions—4,251mm long, 1,855mm wide, and 1,361mm tall—strike a balance between presence and nimbleness, with a 2,840mm wheelbase supporting grand touring comfort.

• Key Chassis Features: Stainless steel tubular frame with composite reinforcements for rigidity without excess mass.
• Body Panels: Bespoke aluminum hand-beaten for perfect fitment and corrosion resistance.
• Aerodynamics: Underbody diffuser optimizes airflow, aiding high-speed composure.
• Wheels and Tires: Lightweight alloys shod in performance rubber for grip and feedback.

Interior Refinement: Luxury Meets Practicality

Step inside the Syracuse, and you’re greeted by a cockpit blending motorsport minimalism with upscale touches. Personalized leather upholstery wraps ergonomic seats, complemented by aluminum accents and high-grade switchgear. Climate control air conditioning ensures year-round usability, while ISOfix child seat anchors add family-friendly versatility rare in this segment.

The 2+2 configuration offers genuine rear space for adults on shorter jaunts, with a front-engined layout allowing a usable boot. Analog gauges provide at-a-glance information, and the five-speed manual transmission (with ratios optimized for the V10’s torque band) delivers engaging shifts. Build quality, if matching the prototypes, promises durability for enthusiastic ownership.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Thrills Without Compromise

With rear-wheel drive and a short-throw manual gearbox, the Syracuse excels in delivering raw, unfiltered driving pleasure. Acceleration figures, while not independently verified in production, suggest 0-60mph in under 4 seconds, thanks to the V10’s broad powerband and low inertia. On twisty B-roads or sweeping autobahns, the double-wishbone setup and precise steering shine, offering feedback that communicates every surface change.

Its 170mph top end demands respect, but the balanced chassis instills confidence. No electronic nannies dilute the experience; it’s driver-focused, rewarding skill with predictable behavior. Fuel economy, aided by the efficient V10, suits long-distance cruising, making it a true GT.

Exclusivity and Pricing: A Porsche Rival at a Premium

Priced comparably to entry-level Porsches upon launch (around £100,000+ in 2006 terms), the Syracuse targets discerning buyers seeking rarity over badge prestige. Limited to 100 units, each car is a collector’s item, with hand-assembly ensuring individuality. Despite ambitious plans, full production never materialized, leaving prototypes and partial chassis as tantalizing “what-ifs.” Today, remnants like Tim Bishop’s builds and Phil Bevan’s efforts hint at potential revival amid EV mandates.

This comparison underscores the Syracuse’s superior power-to-weight edge and exclusivity.

Legacy and Future Prospects

The Type-D Syracuse embodies unfulfilled promise—a British answer to boutique supercars like the Noble or Caterham, but with grand tourer sophistication. Challenges like funding and market shifts stalled it, yet its V10 lives on in crates, with enthusiasts like Phil Bevan eyeing modernization. As the UK eyes 2030 EV deadlines, a hybrid or electric evolution could resurrect this gem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the Connaught Type-D GT Syracuse unique?

Its 22-degree supercharged 2.0L V10, ultra-lightweight construction, and limited 100-unit run distinguish it as a British engineering icon.

Is the Syracuse street-legal?

Yes, designed for road use with features like climate control and ISOfix, blending track prowess with daily drivability.

How does it compare to modern supercars?

Lighter and more exclusive than contemporaries, though production rarity limits direct rivals today.

Was the Connaught Type-D ever fully produced?

No mass production occurred; prototypes and chassis exist, with revival talks ongoing.

What’s the top speed and power?

170mph top speed from 300bhp V10, offering Miata-like agility in a GT package.