Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →John Cena’s former 1969 MGC GT is compelling because it keeps the compact shape of a British grand tourer while replacing or modernizing nearly everything underneath and inside it. The Houston shop Ekstensive Metal Works turned it into an American V8 restomod, a transformation featured on Texas Metal. The car later sold at auction in 2023; its current owner is not established by the available records.
What is in John Cena’s MGC GT?
Bring a Trailer’s auction listing identifies the car as a 1969 MGC GT acquired by Cena in 2020 and later modified by Ekstensive Metal Works of Houston, Texas. The listing specifies a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 paired with a Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission. That combination puts a modern Chevrolet V8 and a contemporary manual gearbox into a classic British GT. Bring a Trailer’s listing documents the car’s later auction presentation.
Carscoops reported in May 2022 that the LS V8 used aftermarket individual throttle bodies topped with chrome-plated trumpets, and described its output as more than 600 horsepower. That figure should be treated as a media-reported specification: no builder-issued dyno sheet or primary measurement is established here. Carscoops also reported a weight of barely 2,100 pounds (952 kg), likewise not independently verified in the cited material. Carscoops’ 2022 report gives those figures and additional build details.
Why the conversion is more than an engine swap
The appeal is the breadth of the work. The MGC’s identity remains visible in its GT body, but the project revisited the systems that shape how a car looks, steers, stops, rides, and feels inside. It is better understood as a comprehensive restomod than as a classic MG with a V8 dropped into the engine bay.
#1 Best Overall
- A PERENNIAL CLASSIC FOR EXPERIENCED MODELERS: AMT’s 1/25 scale 1967 Shelby GT-350 is the perfect project for muscle car builders. Add it to your collection today!
- FEATURE PACKED: The 1967 Shelby GT-350 is a historical muscle car that stands alone! Fully paintable, it features authentically detailed water-slide decals. Build it up right with a Ford 289 V8 engine and all the Shelby touches—custom rear lower pan, chrome wheels, custom taillights and front grille, bucket seats, and more. Wrapped up nicely in retro-styled packaging!
- QUICK SPECS: 1/25 Scale, 123 Parts, 7 inches long once assembled. Parts molded in white, clear and transparent red, with black vinyl tires. Some parts are chrome plated. Plastic model kit paint and cement required (Testors or Tamiya brands recommended). Paint guide included in kit. Skill Level 2. For ages 10+
- THE PERFECT PRESENT: Don't know what to get dad for his birthday? Or maybe you have an avid hobbyist or collector in your life. This model kit makes an ideal gift for any occasion!
Powertrain and control
Alongside the LS3 and T-56, the auction listing records Holley Sniper electronic fuel injection, tubular headers, and power steering. The manual gearbox preserves an active connection to the car’s performance, while electronic fuel injection and power assistance update key parts of the driving experience. The sources document these components but do not provide a road test or verified performance comparison with a stock MGC GT.
Suspension and brakes
The listing names adjustable coilovers, a four-link independent rear suspension, and Wilwood disc brakes. Carscoops describes a Mustang II front suspension and rear four-link setup with adjustable coilovers. Taken together, the documented changes show that the build addressed chassis and braking hardware as well as engine power; they do not establish measured handling or stopping-distance gains.
Rank #2
- Revell Model Kit #85-7457, Skill Level 4, Contains 113-Parts, Recommended for ages 12 and up
- Special rally sport option.
- Hood opens to reveal detailed 302 cu. in. V-8 engine with dual carbs.
- Optional center console. Chambered dual exhausts.
- Molded in white, transparent red and clear with chrome plated parts and soft black tires. Requires paint and glue. (not included)
Bodywork and finish
The MGC GT received a custom Sebring-style body kit and US Mags 18-inch wheels. Its reported finish differs by date: Carscoops described bright orange and blue paint in 2022, whereas Bring a Trailer later described a metallic-gray refinish in its 2023 auction listing. The sources therefore document different appearances, rather than one definitive color for the car across both periods.
A modernized cabin
The auction listing describes a blue leather interior, a tilting steering column, Vintage Air climate control, and Bluetooth audio. Those additions bring everyday comfort and convenience into a cabin based on a late-1960s car, completing the transformation beyond its exterior and mechanical specifications.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- Skill 2, paint and cement required
- Molded in black
- Vector and Torq-Thrust wheel options
- Two engine intake setups
- Country racing parts included
How the car became a television story
The build appeared on Texas Metal in season 5, episode 7, listed as “MGCena.” Apple TV gives the episode a May 25, 2022 release date and a 43-minute runtime. Its description reads: “Actor John Cena is amazed by the transformation of his British classic ’69 MGC into a custom-built masterpiece with all-American trimmings.” Apple TV’s episode listing identifies the episode and provides that description.
The television framing captures the central contrast: a British classic recast with an American V8 and extensive custom work. The documented build details make that contrast concrete—powertrain, suspension, brakes, body, and cabin all feature in the conversion.
Rank #4
- Authentic Ford Design: Each model kit accurately captures the signature style and details of iconic Ford vehicles.
- Precision-Molded Parts: High-quality, finely molded components ensure a realistic and detailed build.
- Customizable Features: Includes decals and optional parts for a personalized, unique build.
- Ideal for Hobbyists: Perfect for model builders of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced collectors.
- Display-Ready Models: Create a stunning Ford model that’s ready to showcase in your collection or as a standout display piece.
What happened to Cena’s former MGC GT?
Bring a Trailer records a completed sale for $66,420 on October 13, 2023. That is the result of a specific historical auction, not a current asking price or a general valuation of the car. The listing establishes the sale but does not establish who owns the MGC GT now.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- ALL-INCLUDED MODEL KIT – Get straight into model building without the hassle of looking for paint, glue, or accessories; this model gift set kit includes basic Revell paints, a brush, and glue.
- SKILL LEVEL 3 – FUN & APPROACHABLE - Designed for beginner to intermediate builders, offering a balanced and rewarding model building experience for ages 10+
- DETAILED 1:32 SCALE ’69 CORVETTE STINGRAY MODEL – Build a replica of the iconic 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray in 1:32 scale, capturing the legendary styling of this American sports car classic.
- 20-PART MODEL WITH ONE-PIECE BODY DESIGN – Features 20 parts and a detailed one-piece body with the Corvette's characteristic curves and air intakes already precisely molded.
- MOVABLE WHEELS AND AUTHENTIC DECALS – Includes movable wheels for added realism and authentic decals for applying detailed gauges, logos, and vehicle markings.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →
