Originally built as a MAGUIRE MINI, Bessie sported an ex Jim Whitehouse 850cc - yes you read that right - 850cc short stroke 8 Port.
The end of the 70's saw the launch of the new MG Metro with a lower drag co-efficient, it was decided to extend the rear radius arms by 8" and then fit a Metro body on the spaceframe chassis.
Bessie as it was called had an engine transplant to a 1298 BDH. This conversion on top of a Mini gearbox was pioneered by a brilliant engineer, Gordon Allen.
This configuration coupled with the new aerodynamic body proved to be very successful and won many championships.
With open engine championships it was decided to engineer a Cosworth 2 Litre Duratec together with a much stronger Vauxhall gearbox into the chassis.
The team were invited to compete in the All Comers Race at Brands Hatch.
On a brilliant summers day Bessie was to go into combat with much more modern machinery including Harvey Death's fabulous Twin Hyabusa powered mini rocket.
The race ended with the Metro having suffered a front wheel bearing failure whilst leading with 2 laps to go.
Bessie had to be content with a new outright lap record for this event. Importation rules regarding vehicles are very specific: Only those over 25 years in age may be brought in to the USA without compilance to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).