New McLaren 650S Sprint
Published Date: 22nd Aug 2014
This is a new track version of the 650S and has a stripped-out cabin, new chassis technology and extra downforce and is not road legal.
Similar to the very impressive 650S GT3 racer, the new McLaren 650S Sprint uses a quick-fill fuel cell, enhanced cooling with huge intakes and radiators, and comes fully loaded with a mean aerodynamics package. Also the pop-up airbrake has been ditched in favour of a fixed rear wing, while the front splitter erects an extended lip to cut through the on rushing air.
For the average McLaren enthusiast, who finds the 650S a little like a diet coke and missed out on the McLaren P1 hybrid Supercar, McLaren has developed the 650S Sprint for such a person. This is a track-only version of the new 650S supercar. The 650S essentially adds racing-spec downforce and lightness to the 641bhp coupe, without the unattractive drawbacks of engine and chassis regulations.
At its beginnings, the 650S sprint uses the same MonoCell carbon tub as the original road car, reinforced with a roll cage. A full racing seat has been installed, and also a very impressive all-carbon dashboard. The only creature comfort you get is manual air-conditioning, and a fire extinguisher is now standard-fit on this stripped down racing McLaren.
The 650S GT3, which has to comply with strict FIA regulations and the Sprint doesn’t and keeps its ProActive Chassis Control active suspension system, and its BrakeSteer gadget which nips the inside brakes on corner entry to pivot the 650S sharply into the turn. Race-spec add-ons you won’t find on the regular 650S’s options list include an on-board air-jacking system for fast pit stops, 19-inch centre-lock wheels, slick Pirelli tyres and a weight-saving polycarbonate windscreen.
If the 650S Sprint sounds appealing and like your sort of track day toy, you’ll need to pay £198,000 – that’s £2750 more than its numberplate-wearing sister. It was seen first seen at the Pebble Beach Concours show this month, where the Sprint will have its work cut out trying to upstage the new McLaren P1 GTR.
