Michael Accardi 
Since it’s Rolex 24 week why not kick it back to the ’80s and rekindle the fabulous days of IMSA GTP racing? GTP cars were nearly identical to FIA Group C spec cars, similar to the upcoming harmony between the FIA and IMSA under the new LMDh regulations. IMSA had its share of big money factory prototypes from Porsche, Nissan, Toyota, Mazda, Jaguar, and Chevrolet.
Debuting in 1984, the Corvette GTP used a Lola chassis that was designed to house either a C4 Corvette derived 5.7L V8 or an unreliable 3.4L twin-turbo V6. Corvette styling cues featured prominently on the front and rear fascias.
Unfortunately, the car was never quite as successful as Chevrolet might have hoped and GM pulled funding for the project in 1988 after only two race wins, one at Road Atlanta and the other in Palm Beach.
Which brings us to this Mongoose Motorsports-built Corvette GTP listed for sale by Barett-Jackson.
Built by Mongoose Motorsports in 2013, this car is a re-creation of the 1985 Corvette GTP. It features a full carbon-fiber tub, with tube frame front and rear chassis sections, and it makes use of suspension A-arms and brakes from the C5 Corvette.
The fiberglass bodywork is crafted from the original Corvette GTP molds lending the re-creation a high degree of authenticity. This particular Mongoose Motorsports GTP comes dressed in the classic Corvette Grand Sport livery, including the red hash marks on the left side quarter panel.
Powering the re-created GTP is a 383 cubic-inch V8 hooked to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Creature comforts include power windows and doors, air conditioning, a rear camera, and a full audio system. Other racy bits include a carbon-fiber rear wing and a full race pack dash.
Look for it during Barett Jackson’s Scottsdale 2021 auction which is scheduled to take place from March 20 to 27.
