Turner Mk 1 Sports-2 RD (1962-64)
Overview: The **Turner Mk 1 Sports - 2 RTD** was a significant model for **Turner Sports Cars** in 1959, marking an evolution in their lineup. The **Mk 1 Sports** introduced a **re-styled body** and was available with either a **BMC or Coventry Climax engine**, offering improved performance. This model helped Turner establish itself as a serious competitor in the small sports car market, appealing to enthusiasts who wanted a lightweight, nimble vehicle with racing potential. Turner Sports Cars, founded by **Jack Turner**, had already gained traction with earlier models like the **Turner 803** and **Turner 950**, but the **Mk 1 Sports** refined the formula, making it more competitive. The company was known for producing **affordable yet high-performance sports cars**, often sold as kit cars for home assembly.
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Production Total: A total of **40 Turner GT MK 1** cars were produced between 1962 and 1964.
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Price in 1962: In 1962, the Turner GT MK 1 was priced at approximately £1,095.
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Target Age Group: The **Turner Mk 1 Sports - 2 RTD** was primarily aimed at **enthusiasts and amateur racers** rather than a specific age group. Given its **lightweight design, affordability, and racing potential**, it appealed to **young drivers and sports car fans** who wanted a nimble, high-performance vehicle without the cost of larger, more established brands.
Turner Sports Cars were often sold as **kit cars**, meaning buyers could assemble them at home, which further attracted **hands-on car enthusiasts** who enjoyed modifying and tuning their vehicles. The car’s **compact size and sporty handling** made it popular among those looking for an entry-level racing experience or a fun weekend driver.
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Sales: The **Turner Mk 1 Sports - 2 RTD** was a **modestly successful** model for Turner Sports Cars, but it was never a mass-market vehicle. Turner cars were **hand-built in limited numbers**, with the company producing around **670 cars in total** between 1949 and 1966. While the Mk 1 Sports gained popularity among **enthusiasts and amateur racers**, it remained a niche product rather than a mainstream commercial success.
Turner cars were known for their **lightweight design and strong performance**, often competing well against bigger brands like **Lotus, MG, and Healey**. They performed well in **club racing and motorsport**, winning several championships and surprising more established competitors. However, the company eventually ceased operations in **1966**, largely due to financial constraints and the increasing dominance of larger manufacturers.
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Rivals: In **1959**, the **Turner Mk 1 Sports - 2 RTD** competed with several small British sports cars, including the **Austin-Healey Sprite**, **MG MGA**, and **Lotus Seven**. Here’s a look at their approximate new prices at the time:
- **Austin-Healey Sprite** – Around **£669** (a budget-friendly roadster)
- **MG MGA** – Around **£940–£1,100** (depending on the engine and trim)
- **Lotus Seven** – Around **£1,000** (a lightweight, race-focused sports car)
The **Turner Mk 1 Sports** was priced competitively within this range, offering a **lightweight chassis and strong performance** for enthusiasts who wanted a nimble, race-ready car. While it wasn’t mass-produced like the MG or Austin-Healey, it carved out a niche among amateur racers and kit car builders.
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Recorded in UK 2025
The exact number of **Turner Mk 1 Sports - 2 RTD** cars recorded in the UK in **2025** isn't readily available, but Turner Sports Cars maintains a **register of surviving vehicles**. Enthusiasts and collectors continue to track and restore these classic sports cars, ensuring they remain part of the historic motoring scene.
If you're looking for a specific car or want to check the latest records, you might find useful information on the **Turner Sports Cars Register**.
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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The Turner GT MK 1, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners and enthusiasts have reported:
1. **Rust**: Rust can be a significant issue, particularly in the chassis and bodywork. Regular inspections and rust-proofing treatments are essential.
2. **Electrical Problems**: Electrical issues, such as faulty wiring and malfunctioning switches, are common. These can affect various systems, including lighting and instrumentation.
3. **Cooling System**: Problems with the cooling system, such as radiator leaks and thermostat failures, can lead to overheating.
4. **Oil Leaks**: Leaks from the rear main oil seal are a known issue.
5. **Carburetor Issues**: Poor running can be caused by a carburetor in need of a rebuild. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these issues and keep the Turner GT MK 1 running smoothly.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Turner GT MK 1, produced between 1962 and 1964, didn't have traditional generations or trim levels like modern cars. However, it did have some variations and updates during its production run: Variations:
1. **Early Models**: The initial production models featured the Ford 1,500cc engine.
2. **Later Models**: Some later models were fitted with different engines, including the Coventry Climax engines. These variations reflect the incremental improvements and changes made to the Turner GT MK 1 over its production period.
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Engine/s
The Turner GT MK 1 was fitted with a few different engines during its production run:
1. Ford 1,500cc Engine: This was the most common engine used in the Turner GT MK 1.
2. Coventry Climax Engines: Some models were equipped with the Coventry Climax 1,097cc FWA and 1,216cc FWE units. These engines provided a good balance of performance and reliability for the Turner GT MK 1.
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Performance
The Turner GT MK 1 offered respectable performance for its time, with variations depending on the engine installed:
Ford 1,500cc Engine: - **Power Output**: Approximately 75 bhp (56 kW) at 6000 rpm - **Torque**: Around 81 lb-ft (110 Nm) at 2300 rpm - **Top Speed**: Approximately 105 mph (169 km/h) - **0-60 mph**: Around 10.5 seconds
Coventry Climax Engine: - **Power Output**: Approximately 75 bhp (56 kW) at 6000 rpm - **Torque**: Around 81 lb-ft (110 Nm) at 2300 rpm - **Top Speed**: Similar to the Ford engine, around 105 mph (169 km/h) - **0-60 mph**: Comparable to the Ford engine, around 10.5 seconds
These figures highlight the Turner GT MK 1's capability as a nimble and sporty vehicle.
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Rivals
In **1959**, the **Turner Mk 1 Sports - 2 RTD** faced competition from several British sports cars, each offering distinct performance characteristics. Here’s a comparison of its main rivals:
- **Austin-Healey Sprite**
- **Engine:** 948cc BMC A-Series
- **Power:** ~43 bhp
- **0-60 mph:** ~20 seconds
- **Top Speed:** ~80 mph
- **MG MGA**
- **Engine:** 1489cc or 1588cc B-Series
- **Power:** ~68–79 bhp
- **0-60 mph:** ~15–16 seconds
- **Top Speed:** ~95 mph
- **Lotus Seven**
- **Engine:** Various options, including Ford 1172cc or Coventry Climax
- **Power:** ~40–75 bhp
- **0-60 mph:** ~6–12 seconds (depending on engine)
- **Top Speed:** ~100 mph
The **Turner Mk 1 Sports** was known for its **lightweight chassis and strong handling**, making it competitive with these rivals, especially in **club racing**. It was often powered by **BMC A-Series or Coventry Climax engines**, offering **nimble acceleration and a top speed of around 100 mph**.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Turner Mk 1 Sports - 2 RTD** was designed by **Jack Turner**, the founder of **Turner Sports Cars**. Turner was an experienced engineer and motorsport enthusiast, and his cars were known for their **lightweight construction, nimble handling, and racing potential**.
**Dimensions of the Turner Mk 1 Sports - 2 RTD**
- **Length:** Approximately **3.6 meters (11.8 feet)**
- **Width:** Around **1.4 meters (4.6 feet)**
- **Height:** Roughly **1.2 meters (3.9 feet)**
- **Wheelbase:** About **2.1 meters (6.9 feet)**
- **Weight:** Estimated at **550–600 kg (1,200–1,320 lbs)**
The compact size and **low weight** made the Turner Mk 1 Sports highly competitive in **club racing**, allowing it to perform well against larger rivals like **MG, Austin-Healey, and Lotus**.
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Spares/Specialists
You can find spare parts for the Turner GT MK 1 in the UK and Ireland through the following sources:
Spares:
1. **Turner Sports Cars**: They offer a range of spare parts for Turner models. You can explore their offerings [here](http://www.turnersportscars.co.uk/t_tech_spares.html).
2. **Motorsport Showroom**: They provide various parts for historic race cars, including the Turner GT MK 1. Check out their inventory [here](https://motorsportshowroom.com/competition-cars/very-competitive-1959-turner-historic-race-car).
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Garage Services in Northern Ireland:
1. **Commons Brae Auto Centre**: Located at 188 Saintfield Road, Belfast. They offer a range of services, including routine maintenance and repairs. Contact them at 07871 965311.
2. **MJS Garage Services**: Based in Dungannon and Dollingstown, they specialize in servicing, MOT, repairs, and maintenance. Reach them at 028 8772 7890.
3. **RS Garage Services**: Located at 99 Tullyraine Road, Donacloney, Banbridge. They offer various services, including MOT preparation and brakes. Contact them at 07834 896410.
4. **McMillan Specialist Cars**: Based in Antrim, they provide classic car restoration and maintenance services. Contact them at 028 9335 4911.
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Racing
The Turner GT MK 1 had a notable presence in various racing events during its production years. Here are some highlights:
1. **Club Racing**: The Turner GT MK 1 was a popular choice in club racing events across the UK and Europe. Its lightweight design and nimble handling made it competitive in these races.
2. **Hill Climbs**: The car also competed in hill climb events, where its agility and power-to-weight ratio were advantageous.
3. **Endurance Races**: Some Turner GT MK 1 cars participated in endurance races, showcasing their reliability and performance over longer distances. One notable example is the **Alexander Turner GT Prototype**, which was raced by Wing Commander K.W. Mackenzie. This car achieved several lap records and continued to be successful in various races. *****
Valuation
The value of the Turner GT MK 1 can vary based on the engine and condition of the car. Here are the current estimated values for the two versions:
Ford 1,500cc Engine: - **Average Condition**: Around £20,300. - **Excellent Condition**: Prices can go significantly higher, with some models listed for up to £35,000.
Coventry Climax Engine: - **Average Condition**: Around £35,000. - **Excellent Condition**: Prices can go significantly higher, with some models listed for up to £70,000. These values reflect the prices seen at auctions and sales, and they can fluctuate based on market demand and the specific condition of each vehicle.
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Clubs
There doesn’t seem to be a **specific Turner Sports Cars owner club** in **Northern Ireland**, but you might find classic car clubs that welcome Turner enthusiasts. Organizations like **Sport Northern Ireland** and **Active Clubs** support various sports and motoring communities, and you could check if they have connections to classic car groups.
If you're looking for Turner-specific events or restoration projects, you might want to explore **Turner Sports Cars Register** or reach out to UK-based classic car clubs that include Turner models.
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HISTORY
The **Turner Mk 1 Sports**, introduced in **1959**, was a pivotal model for **Turner Sports Cars**, a company founded by **Jack Turner** in **Wolverhampton, England**. Turner had already established a reputation for producing **lightweight, high-performance sports cars**, and the Mk 1 Sports continued this tradition.
**Key Features and Development**
- The **Mk 1 Sports** was an evolution of the **Turner 950**, featuring a **re-styled body** and improved aerodynamics.
- It was available with **BMC A-series** or **Coventry Climax engines**, offering a balance of affordability and racing potential.
- The car was known for its **nimble handling**, making it popular among **amateur racers and sports car enthusiasts**.
- Turner cars were often sold as **kit cars**, allowing buyers to assemble them at home, which contributed to their appeal.
**Racing Success and Legacy**
- The **Mk 1 Sports** performed well in **club racing**, competing against brands like **Lotus, MG, and Austin-Healey**.
- Turner cars gained a reputation for **punching above their weight**, often outperforming larger manufacturers in motorsport events.
- Despite their success, Turner Sports Cars remained a **small-scale operation**, producing only **around 670 cars** in total before ceasing production in **1966**.
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