Introduced at the 2015 Geneva International Motor Show, the 2015 McLaren P1 GTR marked a milestone in McLaren’s racing heritage. Built to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the McLaren F1 GTR’s legendary Le Mans victory, this exclusive model was offered only to existing P1 owners. It was designed not for the road, but as a pure track machine, engineered to extract the maximum potential from McLaren’s hybrid hypercar platform.
Born for the Track
Every aspect of the P1 GTR was crafted for circuit dominance. Based on the roadgoing P1, it combined a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8 engine with an electric motor for a total output of 986 horsepower. The GTR’s titanium and Inconel alloy exhaust system enhanced flow and sound, while the electric boost system eliminated turbo lag. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission transferred power seamlessly to the rear wheels, launching the car from 0–60 mph in around 2.8 seconds and reaching a top speed of 217 mph.
Precision Engineering and Aerodynamics
The P1 GTR’s chassis retained McLaren’s Monocage carbon fiber structure but replaced the active suspension with a lighter, fixed racing setup. It rode on slick Pirelli tires mounted to lightweight wheels, offering exceptional grip and balance. Aerodynamics were significantly enhanced with a fixed, full-width rear wing, providing 10% more downforce than the standard P1. Even the side mirrors were repositioned to the A-pillars for improved airflow and visibility.
Lightweight Design and Racing Focus
Inside, the P1 GTR’s cockpit was stripped of all non-essential comfort features in pursuit of weight reduction. A single fixed carbon fiber racing seat, a Formula 1–inspired steering wheel, and a six-point harness brought the driver closer to McLaren’s racing DNA. The result was a 50-kilogram weight reduction compared to the standard P1, despite the addition of safety systems such as a car-to-pit radio, onboard air jacks, and a fire extinguisher.
Performance and Exclusivity
Only 58 units of the P1 GTR were ever produced, ensuring its rarity among hypercar enthusiasts. This particular example, chassis number 014, was finished in Iridium Blue with satin black accents and maintained exclusively through McLaren’s P1 GTR programme. With only 6,698 kilometres recorded, it remains in exceptional condition, its components showing minimal use from carefully managed track sessions.
A Modern McLaren Masterpiece
The P1 GTR stands as one of the most exhilarating machines of the 21st century. It embodies the perfect balance of power, precision, and engineering artistry. For collectors and drivers alike, it represents the ultimate expression of McLaren’s racing philosophy, a car that connects the spirit of Formula 1 technology with the visceral thrill of track performance. Even today, the P1 GTR’s blend of hybrid power and aerodynamic innovation continues to define what a modern track-focused hypercar should be.
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