The Gordon Murray Automotive T.50s Niki Lauda is a high-performance, track-focused variant of the T.50 supercar, introduced in 2022. Named in honor of the legendary Formula 1 driver Niki Lauda, the T.50s represents a more extreme interpretation of Gordon Murray’s vision for a pure, analog driving experience. While the T.50 was designed with road legality in mind, the T.50s is almost entirely dedicated to track use, featuring significant aerodynamic enhancements and a more aggressive setup. Production is limited to 25 units, making it an exceptionally exclusive vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Gordon Murray |
| Model | T.50s |
| Generation | T.50s |
| Type (Engine) | Niki Lauda 4.0 V12 (711 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 1.2 kg/Hp, 834.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 1.8 kg/Nm, 569.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 711 Hp @ 11500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 178 Hp/l |
| Torque | 485 Nm @ 9000 rpm, 357.72 lb.-ft. @ 9000 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 12100 rpm |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Cosworth GMA-S |
| Engine displacement | 3994 cm3, 243.73 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 81.5 mm, 3.21 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 63.8 mm, 2.51 in. |
| Compression ratio | 15:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 14 l, 14.79 US qt | 12.32 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 852 kg, 1878.34 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l, 13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal |
| Length | 4416 mm, 173.86 in |
| Width | 1917 mm, 75.47 in |
| Height | 1179 mm, 46.42 in |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm, 106.3 in |
| Front track | 1629 mm, 64.13 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1573 mm, 61.93 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 87 mm, 3.43 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.67 m, 48.13 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 370×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 340×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 10J x 18Rear wheel rims: 12J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the T.50s lies the Cosworth GMA-S 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine. This engine is a masterpiece of engineering, designed specifically for the T.50 and T.50s by Cosworth. It produces 711 horsepower at a remarkable 11,500 rpm and 485 Nm (357.72 lb-ft) of torque at 9,000 rpm. The engine boasts a high compression ratio of 15:1 and utilizes direct fuel injection. The valvetrain is a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, contributing to the engine’s high-revving nature. The engine’s lightweight construction, with titanium connecting rods and other exotic materials, allows it to rev to a staggering 12,100 rpm. The T.50s utilizes a 6-speed automatic transmission, optimized for rapid gear changes on the track. This transmission is a crucial component in delivering the engine’s power effectively.
Driving Characteristics
The T.50s delivers a driving experience unlike almost any other modern car. The combination of the high-revving V12 engine and the automatic transmission provides exhilarating acceleration and responsiveness. While the automatic transmission might seem unconventional for a car of this caliber, it’s specifically tuned for track use, offering quick and precise shifts. The car’s lightweight construction (852 kg / 1878.34 lbs) contributes to an exceptional power-to-weight ratio, resulting in incredibly agile handling. Compared to a manual transmission, the automatic allows the driver to focus entirely on steering and braking, maximizing performance on the track. The engine’s power delivery is linear and predictable, making it confidence-inspiring for experienced drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Given its track-focused nature, the T.50s is sparsely equipped compared to traditional supercars. The interior is minimalist, prioritizing functionality and weight reduction. It features two racing seats with six-point harnesses, a digital instrument cluster, and a steering wheel designed for optimal grip and control. Air conditioning and a multimedia system are omitted to save weight. The T.50s is not offered with traditional trim levels; each car is essentially built to the same high specification, with limited customization options available to owners. The focus is entirely on performance and the driving experience.
Chassis & Braking
The T.50s features a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, providing exceptional rigidity and lightness. The suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup at both the front and rear, with adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars. This allows for precise tuning of the suspension to suit different track conditions. The braking system consists of ventilated discs with four-piston calipers at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock braking system) is included as a standard safety feature. The car rides on 18-inch wheels, with wider tires at the rear to maximize traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Gordon Murray T.50s has been widely praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its uncompromising focus on driving purity. Critics have lauded the engine’s performance, the car’s handling, and its overall analog feel. Compared to other track-focused supercars, such as the McLaren Senna or the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, the T.50s stands out for its naturally aspirated engine and its lack of electronic driver aids. While the McLaren and Ferrari offer more advanced technology, the T.50s provides a more raw and engaging driving experience. The T.50s is not intended to compete with road-going supercars in terms of practicality or comfort; its sole purpose is to deliver the ultimate track driving experience.
Legacy
The Gordon Murray T.50s Niki Lauda is poised to become a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its limited production run, combined with its exceptional performance and unique design, will likely ensure its value appreciates over time. The Cosworth GMA-S engine is considered a modern engineering marvel, and the T.50s represents a return to the principles of lightweight construction and driver engagement that defined Gordon Murray’s earlier work. The car’s long-term reliability remains to be seen, but the use of high-quality components and meticulous engineering suggests it will be a durable and dependable track weapon for years to come. It stands as a testament to a time when driving was about skill and connection, rather than electronic intervention.
