Sprinting into Goodwood.
Racetracks beware: there’s a new car that’s looking to hit every apex with 50 years of racing technology and know-how – the McLaren MP4-12C GT Sprint. The new MP4-12C GT Sprint is McLaren’s newest version of the 12C and is a track-only special that is slotted between the MP4-12C GT3 racer and the MP4-12C Can Am. Many of the amenities and comforts from the road-going, standard model are still present, but they’re surrounded by an array of track-focused technology that allows the supercar to go around the racetrack in the quickest time possible.
The new McLaren MP4-12C GT Sprint is based on the standard 12C model and utilizes much of its technology such as the carbon fiber MonoCell chassis, ProActive Chassis Control (PCC), Brake Steer, McLaren Airbrake, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V-8. But, that’s where the similarities start to end. The entire car was developed by the McLaren GT racing division of the British company. The 3.8-liter V-8 was pumped up to 625 PS (616 hp) and given a unique oil and cooling system that utilize a 12C GT3-style front radiator for efficient and reliable cooling.
The entire chassis of the McLaren MP4-12C GT Sprint was optimized for the racetrack. The suspension was lowered by 40 mm and calibrated with the PCC system. Drivers can alter between three handling modes that adjust the damping, ESP, and stiffness settings for a given track or situation. A new track-spec set of carbon ceramic (CCM) brakes provide unrelenting, fade-free stopping power. TMP4-12C GT Sprint was also equipped with an on-board air jack system to allow the center-locking OZ wheels and Pirelli racing slicks to be removed as fast as possible.
Just like its GT3 racecar sibling, the MP4-12C GT Sprint was given a full array of aerodynamic upgrades. An aggressive bumper with more pronounced intakes sits up front while a new GT3-style hood boasts air outlets to cool the radiator. As an option, the McLaren Orange supercar can be outfitted with a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) aerodynamic package with carbon fiber front splitter, rear wing, and lightweight components including a polycarbonate windshield.
Inside, the MP4-12C GT Sprint is designed for safety. The cabin is protected by a FIA-approved roll cage and fire extinguisher system while a fully-adjustable HANS-approved lightweight racing seat with six-point harness safeguards the driver. McLaren also gives drivers a bit of comfort with a lightweight air conditioning system. Decorating the dashboard is a coat of carbon fiber covering the race-developed digital display that is integrated with the McLaren GT steering wheel.
The new McLaren MP4-12C GT Sprint will make its worldwide debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Production of the new track-only special will be limited to 20 cars initially and be priced under GBP £200,000.
McLaren MP4-12C GT Sprint Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 3.8 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-8
Aspiration: Twin-turbocharged
Maximum Horsepower: 625 PS/616 HP
-New oil system
-New cooling system with GT3 radiator
Wheels, Tires, Suspension, and Brakes:
Wheels: OZ Racing wheels with central-locking system
Tires: Pirelli racing slicks
Suspension: 40 mm lower with adjustable ESP, roll, and damping
Chassis: Standard air jacking system
Brakes: Carbon ceramic
Exterior:
-More aggressive bumper
-GT3-inspired hood with vents
-Front fender louvres
-Optional CFD aero package with carbon fiber front splitter and rear wing
-Optional lightweight polycarbonate windshield
-McLaren Orange Paint
Interior:
-FIA-approved roll cage
-FIA-approved fire extinguisher system
-HANS-approved lightweight composite racing seat
-Full six-point racing harness
-Lightweight air conditioning system
-Carbon fiber dashboard
-Digital racing display
-McLaren GT steering wheel
McLaren MP4-12C GT Sprint Gallery
Source: McLaren
What track are you taking the new McLaren MP4-12C GT Sprint for a drive on?
