This is the race-spec version of the new McLaren MP4-12C. Woking is working on a GT3 version in association with Donington-based race team CRS and these are the first spy photos of the new McLaren MP4-12C GT3.
The GT3 Macca is expected to see the light in late 2011, but CAR understands that McLaren is also working on a GT2 MP4-12C for a possible entry at Le Mans in 2013.
McLaren MP4-12C GT3 race car: the spy photos
These first grainy scoop pictures of the MP4-12C track version reveal the roadgoing supercar with a host of aerodynamic addenda.
There’s the enormous rear wing, sported by most entries in the GT3 class, plus a new front splitter and other aero winglets peppered around the bodywork. The weird front Hammerhead shark-fins on the wing are work-in-progress and unlikely to feature on the race car.
It’s impossible to tell from these scoop shots, but the engineers are undoubtedly fiddling with the mid-engined Macca’s hardware too. The 3.8-litre V8 is turbocharged, which lends itself to easy tweaking with an upboost to power; the same engine is likely to underpin the entire McLaren road car range, so we know it has plenty of poke left in reserve for the more expensive models to come.
Who are CRS?
They’re based at Donington in the Midlands, and they have plenty of experience racing Ferrari 430s in the GT3 class.
And in an intriguing twist, McLaren F1 racer Chris Goodwin has raced Ferraris for McLaren in the GT3 championship. He’s the man responsible for much of the tuning of the MP4-12C road car.
McLaren yesterday announced the price of the roadgoing MP4-12C; it’ll cost £168,500 in the UK – before the first registration fee and VED.