McLaren’s new 650S model now comes in three flavors, the standard road going 650S, the competition-spec 650S GT3 for serious racers, and now there’s the 650S Sprint which is aimed at track enthusiasts who still want a little bit of comfort. The 650S Sprint also replaces the MP4-12C-based 12C Sprint as McLaren’s track toy for the super-rich.
Compared to the road model, the 650S Sprint features increased downforce and better cooling airflow to the 3.8 litre twin-turbocharged V8. It also features a competition-spec fuel tank and quick-fill cap, a larger radiator borrowed from the GT3 car, a new hood with additional cooling ducts for the radiator, front wing louvres for improved airflow, reduced ride height and recalibrated damping and spring rates, 19-inch center-locking race wheels with either Pirelli slicks or wet tires, onboard air jack system, and an upgraded braking system.
On the inside the McLaren 650S Sprint features a stripped-out design with a FIA-approved rollcage, a carbon fiber HANS-approved racing seat with six-point harness and an integrated fire extinguisher system. To make sure the car can be flogged around the track whatever the weather, McLaren have left the air conditioning system in place.
Powering the 650S Sprint is the same 3.8 litre twin-turbocharge V8 engine used in the road car, however McLaren say both the engine and transmission have been calibrated to improve on-track driveability – without mentioning any numbers regarding power output or performance.
Options for the car include the addition of a passenger seat, a lightweight polycarbonate windshield, and carbon fiber aerodynamic components including a rear wing and front splitter.
Interestingly, unlike the GT3-spec car, the 650S Sprint is not homologated for any particular race series, nor is it road legal. That basically leaves it as a very expensive track toy for non-competitive racing.
Pricing for the car starts at £198,000 ($332,000).
