VW Golf GTI 16v Mk2, James Shead, 1988 Dunlop RAC BTCC

One of two ex-works rally Golfs sold by David Sutton Motorsport to be turned into BTCC contenders, the car modelled was purchased by the then 23 year old James Shead and his famous yacht designer father Don. The bodyshell retained its distinctive VW livery but was completely rebuilt by John Maguire Racing for James who, in his debut BTCC season, impressed all with his fast, consistent and crash free driving. He scored class victories at Thruxton and Silverstone plus a double at Donington and, while Scottish rival Andrew Jeffrey in the other ex-works Golf also won Class C in 4 of the 13 races, Winchester lad Shead claimed the Championship by 4 points.