Gordon Murray Provided the World with a Genuine Successor to F1 in the Form of the S1 LM.

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      As someone who grew up in the 80s, the McLaren F1 represents one of the high points in the automotive industry. Today, these vehicles can fetch over $20 million.

      While the McLaren P1 and W1 are impressive cars, and the Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA) T.50 can be seen as a contemporary F1, none truly match it. The GMSV S1 LM does. Murray describes the GMSV S1 LM as an “homage” to its predecessor.

      The GMSV S1 LM marks the inaugural creation from a new Gordon Murray Special Vehicles company, which is affiliated with GMA and will focus on bespoke commissions and limited-edition models. The S1 LM falls into the latter category.

      A GMSV client, likely a McLaren F1 owner, ordered five S1 LM models for an undisclosed sum. If you’re inquiring about the price, it’s probably more than you can spend.

      GMSV

      The design blends contemporary LED lighting with elements reminiscent of the McLaren F1. Every aspect is tailored for the S1 LM, featuring an aerodynamic kit that includes a specific front splitter, rear diffuser, and a large rear wing, all claimed to work in unison to deliver “significant downforce and stability,” though the exact downforce figure has not been revealed. It’s reasonable to assume this design carefully avoids infringing on copyright.

      “I appreciate timeless design. I don’t want us to participate in the quest to create the most outrageous supercar at the expense of balance, aesthetic, and proportion. Look at the result; the car is timeless and stunning,” Murray remarked.

      GMSV

      The S1 LM has the appearance of a retro-inspired restomod, yet it’s entirely modern. Underneath its sculpted carbon fiber exterior lies a modified version of the GMA T.50’s powertrain. The 4.0-liter V-12 engine has been enlarged to 4.3 liters, producing over 690 horsepower, and features a custom Inconel exhaust system with 18-karat gold-foiled heat shielding—much like the McLaren F1.

      In addition to the increased displacement, the engine boasts lighter components and a higher compression ratio for enhanced power, torque, and responsiveness, as noted by GMSV. The redline is an exhilarating 12,100 rpm.

      A manual transmission connects to this V-12 using the T.50’s casing and internals, along with revised linkage. GMSV describes the result as featuring “short rifle-bolt throws.”

      Although the foundational elements originated from the T.50, GMSV adjusted the suspension geometry to achieve a lower ride height for the S1 LM, paired with specific damper configurations.

      GMSV

      Similar to the T.50 and F1 before it, the interior includes a three-seat layout with a centrally positioned front seat.

      Just thinking about the sound this beast must produce is exhilarating. And the aesthetics? It’s everything one could imagine in a modern F1. This entire creation is fantastic, and I adore it.

      Take a moment to browse through the complete gallery and relish this modern take on a classic. And can you believe everyone claimed the future would be dull?

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