Ginetta G40 GRDC 1.8 (135 Hp)
Overall Rating
Ginetta G40:
The Ginetta G40 is a sports car which has been built by Ginetta Cars since 2008. It is available in two versions; a road-going version, named the G40R, and the race version, the G40, which is available in two specifications; one of which is the G40 Challenge, the other is the G40 Junior, which were designed for the Ginetta GT5 Challenge and the Ginetta Junior Championship respectively. The G40 replaced the Ginetta G20 race car, and also replaced the road version of the Ginetta G50.
The Ginetta G40 Challenge was introduced in 2008, supplementing the Ginetta G20 in the one-make Ginetta GT5 Challenge. At launch, the car used a 1. 8-litre Ford Zetec-based inline-four engine, generating a power output of 140 hp , and using a 5-speed gearbox, with the car weighing 850 kg. The car was available in 2008 for £24,950, plus VAT, and featured 280mm discs all round. The engine in the most recent versions generate 165 hp , and weigh 800 kg , using 6-speed Quaife sequential gearboxes. It received Autosport's National Car of the Year Award for 2009, two years after the G50 had received the same award....(Read more on Wikipedia)
G40 Overview:
Ginetta G40 (G40). Weighing only 840 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 6 s). The top speed reaches 201 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Ginetta G40, being a low-volume, track-focused sports car, has not undergone Euro NCAP safety testing. Its design prioritizes lightweight construction and driver engagement over passive safety features typically assessed by NCAP, relying on its robust chassis and racing safety equipment for occupant protection in its intended environment.
GRDC 1.8 (135 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Specifically designed for the Ginetta Racing Drivers Club, this 1.8-liter engine provides balanced and accessible performance, making it perfect for developing racing skills without being overly intimidating.
Fuel Economy
Optimized for racing endurance and cost-effectiveness within its series, offering a good balance of power and efficiency for competitive use.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional handling and agility
- • Lightweight and direct driving experience
- • Strong performance-to-weight ratio
- • Engaging and rewarding on track
- • Accessible entry into motorsport (GRDC, Junior)
- • Robust chassis and race-proven components
Cons:
- • Impractical for daily road use
- • Minimal comfort and amenities
- • High noise levels
- • Limited luggage space
- • Specialist maintenance required
- • Not Euro NCAP tested
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(G40: 2011 - 2016).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Ginetta |
| Model: | G40 |
| Generation: | G40 |
| Modification (Engine): | GRDC 1.8 (135 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 2 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 135 Hp |
| Power per litre: | 75 Hp/l |
| Engine displacement: | 1800 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 80.6 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 88 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 201 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.2 kg/Hp, 160.7 Hp/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 5.7 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 840 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 45 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 3748 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1642 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1045 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2250 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |











Is the Ginetta G40 the king of its class? Share your thoughts.