1988 Tiga GC288
1988 Tiga GC288
Brand
Tiga
Year
1988
Country
Great Britain
Generation
Tiga GC288
1988 Tiga GC288
Brand
Tiga
Year
1988
Country
Great Britain
Generation
Tiga GC288
About this car
Discover the history
The 1988 Tiga GC288 is a significant racing car in the world of endurance motorsports, known for its participation in both the World Sportscar Championship (WSC) and IMSA. This car is part of Tiga’s Group C prototype series, developed to compete at the highest levels of sports car racing, specifically targeting the Group C2 category. The GC288, specifically chassis #366, was designed with a focus on lightweight construction, aerodynamics, and advanced engineering, aiming to offer high performance in endurance races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans.Â
The Tiga GC288 is powered by a 3.5-liter Cosworth DFV V8 engine, a renowned powertrain choice for racing prototypes in this era. This engine provided the car with a competitive edge, delivering sufficient power and torque for long endurance races. The car’s lightweight design, paired with the advanced aerodynamic bodywork, was key to its handling capabilities. A fully independent suspension system and a reliable manual gearbox enabled the car to maintain agility and endurance over demanding race distances. These technical aspects made the Tiga GC288 a well-rounded and reliable competitor.Â
The 1988 season saw the car under the banner of the Italian Kelmar Racing team, where it was piloted by drivers such as Pasquale Barbeiro and Vito Veninata. The team achieved a notable third-place finish in class during the 1000 km race at Fuji, marking the car’s best result of the season. The GC288 also raced in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1989, where electrical issues hindered its performance. However, it made a return in 1992 with a different team and again raced in Le Mans, although a transmission failure ended the race prematurely.Â
The car’s racing pedigree continued post-1990. After being withdrawn from active competition, the GC288 was acquired by the Ascott Collection, where it underwent a full restoration. This restoration rejuvenated the car, and it found success in the Group C Racing Series and at events like Le Mans Classic. In 2018 and 2019, the Tiga GC288 won the Group C2 Championship, further solidifying its legacy in the motorsports world. The car also claimed victory in the C2 class at Le Mans Classic in 2018, proving that despite its age, it still held competitive value.Â
The Tiga GC288 has been described as a car that combines ease of handling with impressive efficiency, offering a thrilling driving experience. It has remained highly competitive in historic racing events, where its performance has been reliably maintained by expert teams. In recent years, the car has participated in various prestigious events, winning multiple titles, including the Group C2 class at Le Mans Classic in 2018. The car’s continued success in historic racing serves as a testament to its quality and design, showing its endurance beyond the original competitive era.Â
