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Why We Can’t Get Enough of John Cena’s LS-Swapped 1969 MGC GT

John Cena’s former 1969 MGC GT combined a 6.2-liter LS3 and six-speed manual with extensive suspension, brake, body, and cabin modifications. Here’s what the documented build and its 2023 auction record tell us.
Entry479 Date Time3 min MechanicCarCody Team
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John Cena’s former 1969 MGC GT is compelling because its restrained British fastback shape was paired with an extensive American V8 restomod—not just an engine swap. The documented build includes an LS3 and six-speed manual alongside changes to the suspension, brakes, bodywork, steering, and cabin. It sold at auction in 2023; the sources reviewed do not establish its current owner.

What makes the MGC GT restomod stand out?

The appeal is the contrast between the MGC GT’s classic British grand-touring identity and the scale of its conversion. Ekstensive Metal Works modified the car while it was featured on Texas Metal, updating major systems and changing both its exterior and interior.

Apple TV lists the episode as “MGCena,” season 5, episode 7, released May 25, 2022. Its description calls it a transformation of Cena’s British classic “into a custom-built masterpiece with all-American trimmings.” That is the episode listing’s description, not a direct quote from Cena or the builder.

Original MGC GT and documented restomod

The most useful way to understand the car is to compare its original identity with the changes recorded in the auction listing and contemporary reporting. These details describe the build; they are not a verified before-and-after performance test.

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Area Documented details
Powertrain Bring a Trailer lists a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 and Tremec T-56 six-speed manual.
Reported output and weight Carscoops reported over 600 horsepower and a weight of about 2,100 pounds (952 kg). The research did not find a primary dyno sheet or weight record to independently verify those figures.
Suspension and steering The auction listing specifies adjustable coilovers, four-link independent rear suspension, and power steering. Carscoops describes Mustang II front suspension and a rear four-link setup.
Brakes and engine systems The auction listing specifies Wilwood disc brakes and Holley Sniper electronic fuel injection. Carscoops reported individual throttle bodies and chrome-plated trumpets.
Exterior The auction listing describes a custom Sebring-style body kit and metallic-gray refinish. Carscoops’ 2022 report described bright orange and blue paint, so the appearance differed between reports or over time.
Cabin and comfort The auction listing describes a blue leather interior, tilting steering column, Vintage Air climate control, and Bluetooth audio.
Wheels and exhaust The auction listing lists 18-inch US Mags wheels and tubular headers.

What engine is in John Cena’s MGC GT?

Bring a Trailer’s auction listing identifies a 6.2-liter Chevrolet LS3 V8 paired with a Tremec T-56 six-speed manual. Carscoops reported that the engine made over 600 horsepower, but no primary dyno record was found in the research, so that output should be treated as a reported figure rather than an independently confirmed measurement.

Why it was more than an engine swap

The recorded changes extend across the car. The suspension, brakes, steering, fuel-injection system, exhaust, bodywork, and cabin were all modified or updated. That scope helps explain why the build is better understood as a comprehensive restomod than as a stock MGC GT with a replacement engine.

The build also brings together two distinct visual and mechanical identities: a British classic fastback and an American V8 conversion. The available sources document the components and appearance, but do not provide a road test or verified measurements showing how the modifications changed handling or acceleration.

What happened to John Cena’s LS-swapped MG?

Bring a Trailer records a completed sale for $66,420 on October 13, 2023. That is the historical result for this auction, not a current asking price or a general valuation. The sale means it is more accurate to call the car Cena’s former MGC GT; the sources reviewed do not identify its current owner.

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FAQ

What year is John Cena’s MGC GT?

The auction listing identifies it as a 1969 MG MGC GT and says Cena acquired it in 2020.

How much horsepower does the LS-swapped MGC GT make?

Carscoops reported over 600 horsepower. The research did not locate a primary dyno sheet, so the figure is not independently verified in the sources reviewed.

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Who modified the car?

Bring a Trailer says Ekstensive Metal Works of Houston, Texas, modified the car while it was featured on Texas Metal.

How much did the MGC GT sell for?

Bring a Trailer records a completed sale at $66,420 on October 13, 2023. This is a past auction result, not a current price or valuation.

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Best Value
Sale
GM Performance Parts 12595365 Roller Lifter Guide, Plastic, Black, Compatible with GM LS-Series, Each
  • Gen III and IV LS-Series GM Engines (Except with Active Fuel Management)
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Is John Cena still the owner?

The documented auction sale took place in 2023. The sources reviewed do not establish who owns the car now.

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.

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