The Fastest Moment in an MG: Stirling Moss's Record-Breaking 246mph Run
The storied automotive realm is filled with legends and milestones, but few moments stand out as vividly as when Stirling Moss soared to 246mph in the revolutionary MG EX181. This tale of speed and ingenuity is not just a testament to Moss's prowess but a remarkable chapter in MG's relentless pursuit of automotive excellence. Journey with us as we delve into the history and mechanics behind this legendary run.
The Evolution of a Speed Demon: From EX135 to EX181
Before the EX181's creation, MG had already made significant strides in the world of high-speed records. The versatile EX135, redesigned multiple times post-war, shattered records in the 350cc, 500cc, and 750cc classes. However, MG's insatiable desire for speed meant they were never truly content with merely holding records.
In 1954, the MG team introduced the EX179, a unique marriage of a pill-shaped body and an enhanced 948cc A-series engine derived from the Morris Minor. Though piloted by the retired Captain Eyston, the EX179 didn't quite hit the mark in public acclaim or record-breaking performances. This disappointment set the stage for MG's next bold endeavour: the creation of the EX181.
Designing the Ultimate Speed Machine
With an eye on extending their reign in the 1500cc record category, MG's engineers got to work. Thorough research pointed them towards a flattened torpedo shape, offering the least resistance against the wind. This unique design featured a downward angle, rear wheels closer together than the fronts, and rear fins for stability. Inside, the driver would be ensconced in a minuscule bubble, sacrificing comfort for aerodynamic efficiency.
Every inch of the EX181 was meticulously crafted, from a wind-tunnel-tested body that provided a 30% reduction in drag, to the placement of the engine right behind the driver. The combination of these elements meant MG was ready to take on the world, but they'd need the right pilot – and who better than Britain's top Formula 1 driver, Stirling Moss.
Stirling Moss: The Perfect Pilot
Standing at a modest 5ft 7in, Moss was almost tailor-made for the tight confines of the EX181. Despite the cramped space – with his feet brushing the car's nose and the steering rack pressed against his legs – Moss was determined to push boundaries. The wind tunnel tests had already showcased the car's potential, but it was Moss's skill and courage that would truly bring it to life.
On that fateful day, Moss took the wheel, and the combination of MG's engineering prowess and his driving genius culminated in a breathtaking record-breaking run. The EX181 flew down the course, achieving a staggering 246mph, forever etching Moss's name in the annals of speed history.
A Legacy Remembered
The success of the EX181 was not just a personal triumph for Stirling Moss but marked a pinnacle for the MG team. Their relentless quest for innovation and speed had paid off in one of the most spectacular displays of automotive engineering. This moment in 1957 remains an iconic reminder of what can be achieved when engineering excellence meets unparalleled driving talent.
The legacy of the MG EX181 and Stirling Moss's 246mph run continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts and engineers alike. It's a story that speaks of vision, determination, and sheer willpower. As we look to the future of automotive innovation, moments like these remind us of the incredible feats humans and machines can accomplish together.