Unmistakably, this new super lightweight from Mclaren hearkens back to the nineties  when Mclaren was producing the “F1″ model.  But can we call it retro?

No.  Not really.

The original F1 that was sold until 1998 had an asking price of around $970,000.00 US (and can pull almost double that today).  This more recent example “only” begs for around $265,000.00 US.

This version intends to stand toe-to-toe with its closest priced competitors and beat them in each part of the elaborate engineering process that is involved with creating such a beast.  First things first, weight.  Built entirely of carbon fiber and other composites, the tub alone only weighs 175 pounds.  Carbon ceramic brakes?  Nope, too heavy, so billet steel pieces are used instead.

A Mclaren developed 600 HP / 433 ft-lbs, dry sump, twin turbo 3.8L V8 sits behind the driver and is triggered by a 7-speed dual clutch transmission that will ensure break-neck shifts at the engines 8500 RPM redline.

Mclaren has not released any final performance numbers but they have said it is lighter than the Lamborghini LP560-4 and the Ferrari 458 Italia.

You can bet that this British unit will be featured on the upcoming edition of Top Gears 14th season and I cannot wait for it.

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