‘Longtail’ is McLaren’s badge of distinction for the ultimate high-performance versions of their standard models. The badge pays homage to the legendary McLaren F1 GTR ‘Longtail’ race car, and therefore, any model carrying its name must have its traits: Increased power, reduced weight, optimised aerodynamics, absolute driver engagement, track-focused dynamics, and limited availability. The McLaren 600LT is only the fourth McLaren to earn the ‘Longtail’ badge because it sets the new benchmark as the fastest, most powerful and most track-focused, yet road legal car McLaren has ever created.
“The McLaren 600LT is only the fourth ‘Longtail’ McLaren in more than two decades. The McLaren F1 GTR ‘Longtail’ that began the lineage was one of the purest race cars in modern motorsport history. The 675LT resurrected the revered name, creating the purest distillation of the sheer driving pleasure embodied by all McLaren cars. Now we are further extending our very special LT family –albeit in limited numbers.” – Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive.
Extreme weight-saving measures were at the heart of the McLaren 600LT programme from its outset. The lightweight yet tough carbon fibre monocoque chassis forms the base around which new carbon fibre bodywork has been added. These include the new front splitter, side sills, extended diffuser and the fixed rear wing which is lighter and produces greater downforce. The result is a dry weight of just 1,247 kg, that is a total reduction of 96 kg compared to a standard 570S Coupé on which the LT600 is based. It has a longer body than the other models by 74mm.
The increased power is delivered by the 3.8-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine. It can crank out 600 PS and 620 Nm of torque which means a power-to-weight ratio of 481 PS per tonne. The 600LT features a distinctive exhaust system with top-exit pipes. It serves the dual function of substantial weight saving coupled with a distinct aesthetic appearance particularly when the “afterburners” come on. Custom-made Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tyres designed for the track add to the cars handling.
The interior is, not surprisingly, minimalist and track-focused with Carbon Fibre Racing Seats first seen on the McLaren P1. The standard trim is lightweight Alcantara. As an option, customers can choose the super-lightweight carbon fibre seats developed for the McLaren Senna. McLaren Special Operations also offers a range of other options such as a carbon fibre roof and cantrails, and vented carbon fibre front fenders.
Production of 600LT will be strictly limited although the exact number has not been announced. Production is scheduled to begin in October 2018 and last for around 12 months. Like all McLaren cars, the 600LT will be all-hand-assembled at their Production Centre in Woking, Surrey, England. It is priced from £185,500 with taxes in the UK, which includes a ‘Pure McLaren Road Owner Track Day’ experience with driver training.
