What's going on?
McLaren has released a set of images and most of the tech specs of its next new model, the 600LT. We're smitten.
LT means 'Longtail', right?
Indeed it does, and the new 600LT is only the fourth McLaren ever to bear that name. Given the outrageous success of the McLaren 675LT twins, it's no surprise to see the same treatment for a car to top the Sports Series, hence the 600LT. In this case, it lives up to its billing with a 74mm increase in length, but McLaren hasn't just glued on a bit of carbon; no, instead, there's a longer splitter up front and a bigger diffuser in the back. Those work with the fixed rear wing and new carbon body panels to create 'substantially increased downforce' according to McLaren. That's in comparison to the McLaren 570S, and thanks to a focus on weight reduction, the 600LT can be as much as 96kg lighter than that car depending on options.
Yet more powerful?
Yes, as the 600LT name suggests, this car has 600hp at its disposal (and 620Nm of torque), produced by another development of the twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre V8 (uprated cooling is mentioned). Throttle response is said to be enhanced, as is brake pedal feel, while the engine is held in place by firmer mounts, too. On top of that, the steering is quicker, there are bespoke Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tyres and a few choice components (suspension and brakes) from the Super Series. I've not yet mentioned what is probably one of the most interesting aspects of the car...
Which is...?
The exhaust system. There are two top-exit outlets ahead of the rear wing, which give the car a unique look and sound, but also save weight and reduce back pressure on the engine. McLaren says they're even more extreme than those fitted to the Senna.
Lovely. Any bad news?
The small matter of limited production time (the 600LT will be available from October this year for about 12 months, though build slots will be few and far between as it's a hand-assembled vehicle) and the less small matter of its price, which is £185,500.
Shane O' Donoghue - 28 Jun 2018
