1982 March 82G Racecar : A Timeless Racing Legend
This is not just any GTP (Grand Touring Prototype) car; it’s a testament to engineering brilliance and racing glory. Here’s what makes the 1982 March 82G a true icon:
1982 March GTP Prototype – Chassis 82G1 Serial No. 1
Engineered to Perfection: Powered by a formidable 358 cubic inch, 650 horsepower small block Chevrolet.
Unmatched Speed: Reported top speed of 234 MPH at Le Mans.
Driven by Legends: The primary driver was the legendary Bobby Rahal.
Racing Achievements:
Pole position at the 1982 24 Hours of Daytona.
Pole position at the 1982 12 Hours of Sebring.
Restoration Excellence: Meticulously restored in 2010 to its original race condition by the renowned former IMSA Mechanic of the Year, Jack Deren.
Award-Winning Presence:
Class winner at the 2011 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.
2011 Amelia Island Honoree Bobby Rahal drove this car to the Concours grandstands, headlining the opening ceremony.
Exclusive Showings:
Featured at elite 2011 Monterey Car Week venues: The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering, McCall Motorworks Revival, and Monterey Historics at Laguna Seca.
Hollywood Star: Driven by Paul Newman in the movie ‘Circuit’ at Laguna Seca.
Historical Significance
The 1982 March 82G is a quintessential piece of motorsports history, bringing together three of the most-accomplished personalities of their era: Adrian Newey, Bobby Rahal, and Jack Deren. It was the very first design of the aspiring 23-year-old Newey, who would later dominate the racing world with championships in the CART/PPG Indy Car World Series and an astounding 12 constructors’ championships in Formula 1 with Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull.
Bobby Rahal: One of the most successful drivers of the decade, with CART championships in 1986, 1987, and 1992, and a winner of the 1986 Indianapolis 500.
Jim Trueman: Original owner and long-term sponsor, recognized for his significant contributions to motorsports.
Racing Highlights of the 82G:
Maiden outing at the 1982 24 Hours of Daytona, securing pole position with drivers Rahal, Trueman, and Bruce Canepa.
Second overall at the 1982 12 Hours of Sebring with Rahal at the helm.
Continued to make its mark in the 1982 season with strong performances at the 6 Hours of Riverside, the 100-mile race at Laguna Seca, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Authentic Restoration:
Restored to its 1982 Daytona-specification setup by Jack Deren, this car retains its historical authenticity and competitive edge.
Conclusion
Owning the 1982 March 82G offers a unique opportunity to possess a historically significant racing icon. Its powerful 358 cid, 650 HP Chevrolet engine, paired with a 5-speed Hewland transmission, ensures it remains at the forefront of performance, both on the track and the show circuit. This car is more than a piece of history; it’s a source of inspiration for all who witness its legacy.