Dakar 2020: Bell & McMurran stick with SA-built Nissan

Dubai-based Sabertooth Motorsport Dakar crew, Thomas Bell and Patrick McMurran have once again chosen a Red-Lined Nissan Navara for their next three years of international rally raid racing. 

Bell and McMurran, who finished every race of their 2019 season around the world from the Dakar through Dubai to Morocco with their previous spec Navara, will now step up to the latest Nismo V8-powered VK56 version of the South African developed and built Red-Lined racing machine. Their decision follows an intensive testing program to choose their new ride.

“Looking ahead at the next three years, we recently tried out several different new off-road racing vehicles, but in the end we settled for our tried and trusted reliability,” Thomas explained. “We enjoyed a splendid run with our previous Red-Lined Navara, but we were looking to step up to the next level and after putting a number of rival 4x4s and 2WD buggies to the test, the decision was easy to move up to the new Red-Lined VK56 Navara.

“Terence Marsh and his men have developed a special machine in the VK56 and the new Navara is not only powered by a stronger 5.6-litre Nismo V8, but the engine is now also mid-mounted in the front and that brings superb balance and agility, especially in the thick sand dunes where we will be doing most of our racing for the next few years. “

"We found the Red-Lined Navara easy to drive, comfortable, compliant and had that  key reliability for marathon events Now we look forward to taking delivery of our new race car and preparing for the ultimate test at Dakar 2020 in Saudi Arabia — we cannot wait!”

“We are beyond delighted to retain Thomas and Patrick within the Red-Lined family — especially knowing that the lads tested so many other vehicles before choosing our new Red-Lined Nissan Navara VK56 to take it to the next level.” Red-Lined Motoring Adventures CEO Terence Marsh concluded. “Now we look forward to continuing a most successful relationship, starting with the Dakar from 5-17 January."

Source Red Lined Motorsport