1-of-284: 1987 Ginetta G26

We’ve seen a recent influx of kit cars at Barn Finds, and this 1987 Ginetta G26 is among the more unusual. Hailing from the UK, only 284 of these classics were produced. It looks exotic, but with most of its mechanical and interior components starting life in a Ford Cortina, sourcing parts will be child’s play. If a rare British classic is on your radar, this G26 deserves a close look. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Chuck F for spotting this beauty.

Ginetta introduced the G26 as its latest model in 1984. Utilizing a fiberglass and plastic body on a bespoke electroplated square tube frame, the styling was considered modern and crisp, with the finish and panel gaps tighter than typically expected from a kit car. Production totals were relatively low, with only 284 kits rolling out of the factory. Our feature car is a 1987 vehicle that presents well. Its Silver paint retains a consistent shine, with none of the apparent patchiness that often plagues this shade. The panels are free from defects, with the glass sunroof adding to its appeal. The lights mounted below the bumper are a later addition, and this classic undoubtedly scores points as a kit car with functioning pop-up headlamps. The glass is in good order, and there is no evidence of problems with the alloy wheels.

The G26 looked sporting and quite exotic, which is a typical kit car trait. However, hiding below the surface are many drivetrain components sourced from Ford’s Cortina range. That means that locating maintenance spares poses no challenges, and these can be remarkably fuel-efficient and practical daily drivers. Gracing this Ginetta’s engine bay is a 2.0-liter DOHC four that sends 113hp and 118 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. This Ginetta weighs a mere 2,019 lbs, meaning that outright performance is far better than the power and torque figures might suggest. The ¼-mile journey will take 16.4 seconds while keeping the pedal to the metal will see the needle nudge 115mph. However, its party piece is fuel consumption, with figures beyond 30mpg within reach on the open road. Potential buyers should consider this Ginetta as a turnkey classic. It runs and drives extremely well, allowing the buyer to potentially fly in and drive it home.

Most readers will agree that interior fit and finish is often a kit car’s weakest point. However, with Ginetta utilizing many components from the Cortina, the G26’s presentation is better than average. It is by no means exotic, but occupants will forgive any shortcomings when they sink into the beautiful Recaro buckets. There is space to occupy four adults, although that total will climb to five if one or more rear-seat occupants are children. Astute readers will immediately note the right-hand drive configuration, but shouldn’t view that as a negative attribute. Adapting to this layout is remarkably easy, and people who have done so often question why they were ever worried. The interior is generally tidy, although it is missing items like the passenger-side window handle. However, locating a replacement shouldn’t be difficult.

Some readers might immediately dismiss this 1987 Ginetta G26 due to its right-hand drive layout, but that would be a mistake. I admit that it is out of the ordinary, but it is amazing how quickly driving cars of this type becomes second nature. The seller listed this G26 here on Facebook Marketplace in Brunswick, Maryland. You could drive it home by handing them $19,500. That might sound like a significant sum for a vehicle of this type, but its rarity probably justifies that figure. There’s no doubt that you won’t park beside an identical vehicle at a Cars & Coffee. That makes it worth a close look.