The written world is running out of superlatives as the motor industry continues to produce limited run stratospheric cars. The latest is the McLaren 600 LT. Based on the 570S, the 600LT is the fastest and most powerful model in the history of the entry-level Sports Series range.
McLaren has boosted power for the 3.8 liter twin-turbo V8 by 22 kW/20 Nm to 441 kW/620 Nm, thanks to an uprated cooling system and reduced back pressure in the exhaust system, which is shorter than that in the McLaren Senna.
As the name would suggest, the 600LT’s body length has been increased by 74 mm, and features an extended front splitter, lengthened rear diffuser and a fixed rear wing.
Much attention has been given to weight saving and the 600LT checks in at 1247 kg dry, 96 kg lighter than the 570 S Coupe, with 23 percent of parts changed for the 600LT.
Weight saving is achieved with new carbon-fiber bodywork and the special exhaust system, which exits on top of the 600LT’s rear, in front of the fixed wing spoiler. Options from McLaren Special Operations (MSO) such as vented carbon-fiber front fenders and a carbon-fiber roof to further reduce weight.
To enhance on-road performance, the 600 LT gains the aluminium double-wishbone suspension and lightweight brakes borrowed from the 720S, sharper throttle, brake and steering response, firmer engine and exhaust mounts and Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo R rubber.
The weight-saving measures continue inside with a minimalist cabin featuring carbon-fiber racing seats borrowed from the P1 hybrid supercar, and extensive Alcantara trim throughout. Those looking to further reduce weight can option super-light carbon-fiber seats taken from the Senna.
McLaren has described the production of the 600 LT as “strictly limited”, so Thailand allocation will be very slim. Local pricing is yet to be determined, but a price tag somewhere between the 570S Coupe ($395,000 before on-road costs) and the 720S ($515,080) is likely.
Production of the 600 LT will begin in October and last for 12 months, meaning the new model will likely be released in 2019.
The LT badge began in 1997 with the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail, a GT racecar based on the F1 GTR that was over 100 kg lighter compared to the original, and finished the 1997 Le Mans 24 Hours GT1 class in first and second place.
The nameplate was revived at the 2015 Geneva motor show with the 675 LT, based on the 650 S Super Series model which was followed by a drop-top Spider version due to the demand of the coupe.
As such, the creation of a 600 LT Spider is not out of the question.
