Two MGs ZT in the DTM

The British automobile manufacturer MG returns to DTM to battle it out with Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Opel. MG will contest the eleven rounds of the most popular international touring car series with two MGs ZT, powered by a Zytek V8 4.0-litre engines.

“I’m truly proud and delighted that we have the opportunity of welcoming MG as additional DTM manufacturer,” said ITR Chairman Hans Werner Aufrecht. “MG’s involvement proves DTM’s attractiveness for manufacturers. With four brands on its grid, DTM has got on a solid basis and will provide even more excitement and thrill in its forthcoming season.”

Years ago, already, the company enjoyed great success in DTM. In both 1984 and 1985, the British brand Rover was just pipped in the battle for the title and finished runner-up, but in 1986, Rover won the championship with Kurt Thiim.

“Racing against prestigious brands in DTM is an exciting way to raise the MG profile,” said Rod Ramsay, managing director, sales & marketing, MG Rover. “We see the young audience that the series attracts as key to the growth of the marque across Europe.”

David Sharples, director, MG Sport and Racing added: “DTM is a race series the public really connects with. It is a perfect opportunity for MG to showcase the racing qualities of its V8 muscle car, the ZT 260. We are delighted to be working with Oxfordshire based automotive technology specialists Zytek and are confident we will make a real impact in our first season.”

Two weeks after the official launch in Hamburg, taking place on 5th April, DTM and its four manufacturers will kick the new season off on 17th April, with six of its eleven rounds taking place in Germany and the other five being held abroad, in Belgium, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, France and Turkey.