The Gordon Murray T.33 is a limited-production, mid-engined sports car designed by renowned automotive engineer Gordon Murray. Introduced in 2022, with production commencing in 2023, the T.33 represents a return to the analog driving experience, prioritizing lightweight construction and naturally aspirated power. It is positioned as a spiritual successor to Murray’s earlier masterpiece, the McLaren F1, though significantly more focused on driver engagement and a more accessible price point within the hypercar segment. The T.33 is built around a new carbon fiber monocoque chassis and is powered by a bespoke Cosworth-developed 4.0-liter V12 engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Gordon Murray |
| Model | T.33 |
| Generation | T.33 |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V12 (615 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 1.8 kg/Hp, 564.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.4 kg/Nm, 413.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 615 Hp @ 10500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 154 Hp/l |
| Torque | 451 Nm @ 9000 rpm, 332.64 lb.-ft. @ 9000 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 11100 rpm |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Cosworth GMA.2 |
| 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 | 14:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1090 kg, 2403.04 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l, 9.89 cu. ft |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l, 19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal |
| Length | 4398 mm, 173.15 in |
| Width | 1850 mm, 72.83 in |
| Height | 1135 mm, 44.69 in |
| Wheelbase | 2735 mm, 107.68 in |
| Front track | 1591 mm, 62.64 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm, 60.24 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm, 4.72 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.9 m, 42.32 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, manual 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 |
| Front wheel tires | 235/35 R19 |
| Rear wheel tires | 295/30 R20 |
| Front wheel rims | 8.5J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 10.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the T.33 is the Cosworth GMA.2 4.0-liter V12 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated masterpiece, eschewing turbocharging or electrification in favor of a pure, high-revving experience. It boasts a 14:1 compression ratio and direct fuel injection, contributing to its impressive 615 horsepower output at 10,500 rpm and 451 Nm (332.64 lb-ft) of torque at 9,000 rpm. The engine’s redline is a remarkable 11,100 rpm. The engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, optimized for high-flow breathing. The engine is mounted longitudinally in a mid-engine configuration, driving the rear wheels. The T.33 exclusively features a six-speed manual transmission, further emphasizing the driver-focused nature of the car. The transmission is a bespoke unit designed to handle the engine’s power and provide precise gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The T.33’s driving experience is defined by its lightweight construction (1090 kg / 2403 lbs) and the responsive nature of the naturally aspirated V12. The manual transmission demands driver involvement, and the lack of electronic aids encourages a more analog connection with the car. The power delivery is linear and predictable, with a strong pull throughout the rev range. While not possessing the instant torque of a turbocharged engine, the T.33 rewards drivers who are willing to explore the upper reaches of the rev band. The relatively low weight contributes to agile handling and impressive acceleration. The gear ratios are carefully chosen to maximize the engine’s performance, providing strong acceleration in each gear.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The T.33 is not offered with traditional trim levels. Instead, it is largely bespoke, with customers able to personalize various aspects of the interior and exterior. Standard features include a minimalist interior focused on driving, with two sculpted seats and a simple dashboard layout. The interior is trimmed in high-quality materials, including leather and aluminum. Options include a bespoke audio system and various customization options for the interior trim and exterior paint. The car is designed to be relatively spartan, prioritizing weight savings and driver engagement over luxury features.
Chassis & Braking
The T.33 is built around a new carbon fiber monocoque chassis, providing exceptional rigidity and contributing to the car’s low weight. The suspension utilizes double wishbones at both the front and rear, with a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. The braking system features ventilated discs at all four corners, measuring 370x34mm at the front and 340x34mm at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The steering is a hydraulic rack and pinion system, providing precise and communicative feedback. The car rides on 19-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch wheels at the rear, shod with 235/35 R19 and 295/30 R20 tires respectively.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Gordon Murray T.33 has been widely praised by automotive journalists for its focus on driving purity and its exceptional engine. Critics have lauded the car’s lightweight construction, responsive handling, and the intoxicating sound of the V12 engine. Compared to other hypercars, the T.33 stands out for its analog driving experience and its lack of reliance on electronic aids. While its performance figures may not be as extreme as some of its rivals, the T.33 offers a more engaging and rewarding driving experience. Its price point, while still substantial, is lower than many other hypercars, making it a more accessible option for enthusiasts.
Legacy
The Gordon Murray T.33 is poised to become a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its limited production run and its unique design philosophy ensure its place in automotive history. The Cosworth GMA.2 V12 engine is expected to be a particularly durable and reliable powerplant, given Cosworth’s reputation for engineering excellence. As a used car, the T.33 is likely to command a premium price, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its focus on driving purity and its connection to the legacy of Gordon Murray’s earlier creations. The T.33 represents a refreshing departure from the trend towards increasingly complex and electronically-laden hypercars, offering a pure and engaging driving experience that is increasingly rare in the modern automotive landscape.
