McLaren Automotive has officially begun shakedown testing of its so-called “mega-Mac” model. The mega-Mac – which will adopt an alphanumeric nameplate more in line with the MP4-12C for production – is intended to be the spiritual successor to the automaker’s original F1.
McLaren revealed to Autocar that testing of the firm’s new range-topper began in Spain last month and ha since shifted to Germany for further tweaks. If the car’s development continues as planned, it should hit the market sometime during 2014.
The new-age F1 will adopt some styling cues from the MP4-12C, but McLaren insiders say the new car will be “bigger, angrier and more functional looking” than its little brother. A few throw back cues to the original F1 are expected.
The mega-Mac will lean heavily on carbon fiber for most its construction and will utilize a pushrod suspension like the system first seen on the Lamborghini Aventador. Hydraulic anti-roll control, adaptive dampers and an advanced traction control system will also be part of the car’s handling package.
Power for the McLaren flagship will come from a new 5.0L V8. Despite its relatively small displacement, the new mill will crank out an astonishing 799 horsepower, with all that power going to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
That kind of power means the reborn F1 will be able to accelerate for 0-60 in 2.8 seconds and from 0-100 in just 5.5 seconds. Amazing, the car will be able to go from a standstill to 200mph in 20 seconds.
McLaren will likely cap production at 500 units over a four-year run, with prices reflecting that exclusivity. Early estimates peg the mega-Mac’s starting price at $1.56 million.
References
1.’New McLaren F1…’ view
