Discover this MG Metro 6R4 red and white number 19, a faithful reproduction of the car that marked the RAC Rally of Great Britain in 1986. This IXO miniature perfectly captures the essence of one of the boldest creations of Group B, a legendary era of world rally.
This collectible piece represents a fascinating chapter in the history of British motorsport, when MG tried to compete with the monsters of Group B using this revolutionary machine equipped with a V6 engine developed by Williams.
Miniature Features
- Model: MG Metro 6R4
- Brand: MG
- Year: 1986
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Red and white
- Race Number: 19
- Event: RAC Rally 1986
- Protective case included: Yes
Real Model Description
The MG Metro 6R4 was born in 1985 from the Austin Rover Group's desire to shine in the World Rally Championship. Faced with Audi Quattro, Lancia Delta S4, and Peugeot 205 T16, British engineers developed a radically different approach: starting from the modest production Metro to create a monster with 410 horsepower.
The "6R4" project (six cylinders, four-wheel drive) completely revolutionized the Metro's philosophy. The 3-liter V6 engine, developed in collaboration with Williams, is positioned in a mid-rear configuration. The permanent all-wheel drive and the completely revamped body in carbon fiber and kevlar transformed this city car into a true projectile for the specials.
During the RAC Rally 1986, this Metro 6R4 number 19 embodied British ambitions in their national event. Despite promising performances, the premature end of Group B in 1987 abruptly ended this exceptional technological adventure.
MG's History in the 1980s
In the mid-1980s, MG underwent a profound transformation under the Austin Rover Group. The legendary brand, known for its sports roadsters, had to reinvent itself in a difficult economic context for the British automotive industry.
The Metro 6R4 project represented a bold attempt to reposition MG at the forefront of international sports. This initiative was part of a broader strategy to use competition as a technological showcase, similar to what European manufacturers of the time successfully achieved. The substantial investment in this rally program reflects MG's ambition to reclaim its sporting glory.
A Legend Born from the Ban
The story of the MG Metro 6R4 takes on a nearly mythical dimension with the brutal ban of Group B in 1987. While only 200 road versions and about twenty rally versions had been produced, this decision instantly transformed the 6R4 into a collector's item.
The remaining examples found refuge in national championships, notably in Great Britain where they dominated for several years. Some Metro 6R4s were even converted for hill climb races, where their exceptional chassis excelled.
A tasty anecdote describes how an owner of a 6R4 road discovered by chance that his car was faster than his Porsche 911 Turbo on the track. The striking contrast between the unassuming appearance of the Metro and its stratospheric performance regularly created astonishment at British car gatherings.
Today, an original MG Metro 6R4 can fetch astronomical sums at auction, reflecting the legendary status achieved by this unique creation in the history of MG.
Complete Your Miniature Collection
This MG Metro 6R4 IXO holds a prime spot in the world of rally miniatures. It fits perfectly alongside other Group B legends, creating a cohesive set that retraces this golden era of motorsport.
Collecting enthusiasts passionate about rally will particularly appreciate its complementarity with miniatures from the 1980s. This piece also finds its place in a collection dedicated to French cars from Group B or the most iconic British creations.
For fans of British motorsport, this Metro 6R4 is a precious testament to an era where technological audacity knew no bounds. It will appeal to both experienced collectors and enthusiasts discovering the fascinating world of IXO miniatures, renowned for their finishing quality and historical fidelity.
