[ Overview:

     The motivation behind the creation of the 23-GT was to build a classic-styled hot rod that performs on a par –or better—than today’s exotic sports cars in terms of acceleration, handling, and braking. With a state-of-the-art suspension, an incredible power-to-weight ratio, and massive 6-piston disc brakes, the task has been accomplished. The prototype weighs just over 2100 lbs., has a highly desirable front/rear weight balance of 51/49, and the engine puts out 567 HP. This equates to some 3.7 pounds per HP, which is the equivalent of a Suzuki Hayabusa Sport Bike.

     From a styling standpoint, it was only natural to pay homage to the Ford Model “T” Track Roadsters that battled at America’s dirt tracks in the ‘40s and ‘50s, with a few contemporary Sprint Car styling cues thrown in for good measure.

     Up front is a suspension utilized by today’s Indycars.  It features inboard coil-over springs that actuate the control arms via a rocker arm and pushrod. This gives the 23-GT an exceptionally “clean” look, while providing outstanding handling.

     In the rear is a triangulated 4-bar suspension that’s coupled to a 9” Ford housing. This provides both the traction control required for optimum acceleration and outstanding lateral stability.  The 23-GT handles like the proverbial slot car.

      The prototype 23-GT was selected by SEMA’s Hot Rod Industry Alliance for exhibition in the Council’s display at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and it was exhibited at the 2009 Grand National Roadster Show, where it was selected as one of the twelve Contenders for America's Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) award. Most recently, the 23-GT was invited to the prestigious Rodeo Drive Concours D'Elegance in Beverly Hills.

     Contemporary technology has been carried through to the interior of 23-GT as well. The dash and console are made of carbon fiber, with a sound system designed to accommodate an iPod or MP3 player. No bulky CD changers here. The console also holds a cell phone and has two 12-volt power taps.

     This is by no stretch of the imagination a cheap T-bucket kit.  It’s a highly refined vehicle that’s engineered to run with the big dogs and provide the kind of canyon-carving performance that will put a smile on your face…and leave a Ferrari in your wake.

     As a point of interest, the prototype 23-GT is equipped with a 427 c.i.d. all-aluminum small block Chevy (World Products Motown), Kinsler port injectors with F.A.S.T. controlled EFI, Crane composite bearing shaft rocker arms and hydraulic roller cam, and a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission.