The 1969 MG ADO21: A Forgotten British Sports Car Gem - AllCarIndex
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In the late 1960s, MG engineers at Abingdon had a bold vision for the future of British sports cars: the MG ADO21. This revolutionary concept, developed in 1968 following the formation of British Leyland Motor Corporation (BLMC), aimed to shake up the market with its cutting-edge design and engineering.
The ADO21 was no ordinary sports car. With its mid-engined layout and E-Series engine, it boasted proportions and a silhouette that turned heads and hinted at a performance to rival even the most illustrious Ferraris of the era. The striking front-end styling and dramatic rear design set it apart from its competitors, showcasing MG's commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional sports car design.
Underneath its sleek exterior, the ADO21 was packed with advanced technology. Featuring a mid-mounted engine and transmission, Hydrolastic suspension, and a de Dion rear axle, it promised unparalleled handling dynamics and a smooth ride. With engine options ranging from a 1500cc four-cylinder to a 2227cc six-cylinder, the ADO21 blurred the lines between MG's entry-level and premium offerings, setting it apart as a versatile and high-performance sports car.
Despite its impressive specs and futuristic design, the ADO21 faced challenges that ultimately led to its demise. Issues such as compromised rear visibility and a cumbersome gear linkage threatened to undermine its potential on the road. Additionally, internal rivalries within BLMC ultimately led to the Triumph Bullet being chosen over the ADO21 as the corporation's new sports car, effectively sealing its fate.
By late 1970, development of the ADO21 had come to a halt, and the prototype was scrapped on the orders of upper management. However, the spirit of the ADO21 lived on in future MG models, such as the MGF, which revisited the mid-engined layout and sophisticated suspension of its predecessor.
Looking back, the MG ADO21 was far ahead of its time—an innovative and sleek sports car that could have redefined MG's future had it been given the chance to hit the open road. Though it may have been forgotten by many, the ADO21 remains a gem of British automotive history, a testament to the engineering prowess and bold vision of MG during a time of great change in the industry.
