British sportscar manufacturer McLaren has taken the covers off its most extreme model since the P1.
Named after famous McLaren Formula One driver and triple world champion Ayrton Senna, the Senna is a lightweight, 789bhp monster that is fitted with a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine and plenty of aerodynamic bodywork.
Weighing just 1,198kg, the Senna has a power-to-weight ratio of 658bhp per tonne – making it the lightest road model since the F1 hypercar – and by utilising rear-wheel drive, it offers top-end track and road performance.
Mainly constructed from carbon-fibre, the Senna is one of the most outrageous-looking road cars McLaren has built – with the bloated bodykit, giant rear wing and multiple air inlets all being used to create as much downforce as possible.
With racing suspension, Pirelli P Zero tyres specially-engineered for the Senna and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with wheel-mounted paddles, the car is built to be quick and has all the components to attack corners on race tracks.
The interior continues that dynamic ethos with only the bare-essentials fitted, such as a central infotainment display and sports seats that are built into the chassis, which can be covered in either alcantara or leather. There isn’t much storage space though, as this car is built for performance and little else.
Performance figures are yet to be announced, but as it was based on the 720S – a fellow member of the McLaren Ultimate Series – expect the acceleration to 60mph to be over in 2.8 seconds and a top speed north of 200mph.
McLaren Automotive CEO, Mike Flewitt, said: “The McLaren Senna is a car like no other: the personification of McLaren’s motorsport DNA, legalised for road use but designed and developed from the outset to excel on a circuit.
“Every element of this new Ultimate Series McLaren has an uncompromised performance focus, honed to ensure the purest possible connection between driver and machine and deliver the ultimate track driving experience in the way that only a McLaren can.”
Ayrton Senna’s nephew and McLaren ambassador, Bruno Senna, added: “Our family is extremely proud of the naming of the new Ultimate Series McLaren Senna. This is the first project that really connects with Ayrton’s racing spirit and performance.
“The McLaren Senna honours my uncle because it is so utterly dedicated to delivering a circuit experience that allows a driver to be the best they can possibly be.”
Prices for the Senna start from £750,000 and only 500 units will be produced. Deliveries will begin in the third quarter of 2018.
