MST has provided us with a first sneak peak at its new Mk1 Evolution, the forthcoming high-powered variant it has previously only shown as a rendering. The firm had assured us that the Evolution would be all about ‘taking the classic Mk1 design to a new level’ – and pictures of the rolling prototype suggest it has done exactly that. Clearly, the most notable part of the new build is those larger 17-inch wheels and the dramatically wider arches created to accommodate them under the Mk1’s body. 

As you might expect, the Evolution also boasts a reworked chassis, and we can see for the first time several other new carbon fibre features, including a fairly prominent rear diffuser. As well as adding some modern styling heft to what is now a 56-year-old design, the modifications are also about delivering a bigger, grippier footprint – something it will need when MST is done hooking it up to a 2.8-litre Millington Diamond motor. The naturally aspirated four-cylinder unit is the largest, most powerful derivative of its type from the Shropshire-based engine-maker, and ought to be good for 370hp and around 300lb ft of torque. 

Which is a fairly senior amount in a Mk1. But then the Evolution is a fairly senior prospect. Alongside the pictures, MST announced that the car will get WRC-grade independent suspension (apparently mimicking the setup Colin McRae is said to have helped develop) backed by either Reiger dampers or a Tractive semi-active alternative. Behind the bigger wheels, there will be six-pot AP Racing brakes and inside its maker will let you choose between a bespoke trim for road use or something much more stripped out for track or rally work. 

The latter, one would think, is what the Evolution is really being aimed at – if for no other reason than because its race-prepped engine will be mated to a six-speed Tractive sequential gearbox. Like we said: senior. MST has already confirmed that it intends to build a couple of tarmac rally specials, although we’d be willing to bet that more than one of the 10 other cars being produced initially will arrive in fairly spartan format. That’s the way we already think about the Evo, at any rate. But that’s just us; if you envisage it another way, MST would be delighted to discuss it with you as it opens the order book for 2024. Or you could come to the PH25 event next month and see them in person. Just be prepared to get in line.