Forgotten MG Metro Turbo locked away for 33 years leaves man shocked as he tests to see if it still runs
Published on Jun 11, 2025 at 2:14 AM (UTC+4)
by Callum Tokody
Last updated on Jun 11, 2025 at 5:41 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
A Forgotten MG Metro Turbo barn find has amazed car fans, as this classic hot hatch, low mileage car, British performance car, and turbocharged vehicle started again after sitting untouched for 33 years.
The rare discovery took place in Warwickshire, where the car had been stored in a garage since 1992.
Family members were stunned when the MG Metro Turbo fired back to life after a careful inspection.
Its revival was documented in a special video by The Late Brake Show.
VISIT SBX CARS – View live supercar auctions powered by Supercar Blondie
The Forgotten MG Metro originally belonged to a Warwickshire man who purchased it in the 1980s.
After driving the turbocharged vehicle only briefly, the owner parked it in his garage and never drove it again.
The car’s performance had frightened him, and workplace restrictions on driving it further discouraged its use.
Over time, this low mileage car became an unintentional time capsule.
The MG Metro Turbo was introduced in 1983 as a high-performance British performance car.

Powered by a 1275cc turbocharged A-Series engine developed with input from Lotus, it produced 93 horsepower and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 10 seconds.
Today, this turbocharged vehicle is one of the rarest examples of a classic hot hatch from its era, with only 29 reported on UK roads.
YouTuber Johnny Smith of The Late Brake Show led the rediscovery of this Forgotten MG Metro.
When the garage was opened, the barn find vehicle was found in remarkably good condition.
The car’s original paintwork showed only minor imperfections, and the tires were still fully inflated.

The low mileage car’s odometer confirmed just 36,000 miles, adding to its desirability.
The MG Turbo’s cabin remained in outstanding shape.
Red carpets, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, an LED turbo boost gauge, and an original Austin Rover tape deck highlighted its originality.
This British performance car had clearly been well preserved throughout its long storage.
Before attempting to start the Forgotten MG Metro, the team performed a full inspection of the engine and fuel system.
Initial tests showed strong spark and compression, but the turbocharged vehicle struggled to fire.
After consulting with an expert and fitting new spark plugs, the MG Metro Turbo came to life.

The sound of the turbocharged vehicle running thrilled both the family and automotive fans.
The classic hot hatch idled smoothly and showed no major mechanical issues.
Thanks to its originality and low mileage, this British performance car is now regarded as one of the finest surviving MG Metro Turbos.
The revival of this Forgotten MG Metro highlights the continued appeal of barn find discoveries.
Collectors are eager to find low mileage cars like this classic hot hatch that remain in original condition.
As British performance cars from the 1980s grow rarer, the value of these turbocharged vehicles continues to rise.

When it launched at a price of £5,649, the MG Metro Turbo offered drivers an affordable way to enjoy a turbocharged vehicle.
Its combination of lightweight design and Lotus-tuned powertrain made it a standout among classic hot hatches of the time.
This Forgotten MG Metro is now set for a new chapter.
The barn find was purchased by automotive journalist Richard Porter, who intended to preserve its originality.
For enthusiasts of British performance cars and classic hot hatches, the revival of this remarkable turbocharged vehicle serves as proof that hidden automotive treasures still exist.
DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie
Callum Tokody is a content writer at Supercar Blondie, where he covers the latest in the automotive world with a focus on design and performance. Callum has a background in automotive journalism and has contributed to a range of publications in Australia and the UK. Outside of work, he’s a design enthusiast with a soft spot for anything with a V8 and a good story.