The McLaren Senna GTR is a track-only hypercar built by McLaren, taking its inspiration from the road-legal McLaren Senna but elevating performance, aerodynamics, and driving experience to extreme levels. Named after the legendary Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna, the Senna GTR is designed with one goal in mind: delivering the ultimate in track performance.
1. Overview
Production: Limited to 75 units.
Purpose: Unlike the road-going McLaren Senna, the GTR version is designed strictly for the track. It removes all road-legal constraints, allowing McLaren’s engineers to focus purely on performance.
Class: Hypercar (Track-only).
Inspiration: Ayrton Senna’s legacy, focusing on absolute speed, precision, and track dominance.
2. Engine and Performance
Engine:
The McLaren Senna GTR is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine (M840TR), the same engine as in the road-going Senna but tuned for even greater power output.
Power Output: 825 horsepower and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque.
Compared to the standard Senna, the GTR gains 25 more horsepower due to tuning, with no road regulations holding it back.
Performance:
The precise performance figures are track-specific, but it can achieve 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in approximately 2.8 seconds, with higher track-focused gearing and optimization for top speed and acceleration in racing conditions.
Transmission:
It uses a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission optimized for fast shifts and track driving, providing seamless power delivery and rapid acceleration.
Weight:
The Senna GTR has an unladen weight of 1,188 kg (2,618 lbs), which is slightly lighter than the road-going Senna, thanks to the removal of road necessities like airbags, and a further stripped-out interior designed for racing.
3. Aerodynamics
Downforce:
The GTR generates a mind-blowing 1,000 kg (2,204 lbs) of downforce, which is 200 kg more than the standard Senna.
The aggressive aerodynamics package is designed for maximum track efficiency, with an even larger rear wing, a more pronounced front splitter, and rear diffuser.
Active Aero:
The car features active aerodynamic elements like the massive rear wing and front splitter, which adjust dynamically based on speed, cornering forces, and braking to optimize downforce and reduce drag when needed.
Design Enhancements:
The GTR’s front splitter is much larger, and it has a wider track, with even more extreme aero work around the body to enhance cornering speeds and braking performance.
The rear diffuser and wing work in harmony to keep the car planted at high speeds, providing exceptional stability, especially in fast corners.
4. Chassis and Suspension
Race-Tuned Suspension:
The Senna GTR features race-ready suspension with double wishbones and pushrod dampers. The setup is designed to handle extreme forces on track, offering greater precision and responsiveness than the road-going version.
McLaren’s RaceActive Chassis Control II (RCC II) system is also employed, with bespoke tuning for track conditions. This system continuously adjusts the suspension to keep the car balanced and stable under high loads.
Braking System:
The GTR is equipped with carbon-ceramic brakes, specifically developed to withstand the extreme conditions of track driving. They offer tremendous stopping power and can endure prolonged sessions on the track without significant fade.
Tires:
The GTR rides on Pirelli slick tires, which are race-specific and designed to offer maximum grip on a dry racing surface. The wheels and tires are optimized for the car’s weight and aerodynamics, further enhancing performance.
5. Interior
Stripped-Out Cockpit:
The interior of the Senna GTR is completely focused on track performance. The creature comforts of the road-going version, like the infotainment system and soundproofing, have been removed.
It features carbon-fiber racing seats, a racing steering wheel with integrated controls for managing performance settings, and a full FIA-approved roll cage for safety.
Instrumentation:
The Senna GTR’s cockpit is equipped with racing telemetry systems to provide data in real-time for the driver and pit crew, allowing for optimal track performance. The central digital display provides essential driving information like speed, gear, and lap times.
Safety:
In line with its race car credentials, the GTR has FIA-compliant safety features, including a fire suppression system and a six-point harness.
6. Track Focus
The McLaren Senna GTR is not a road car—it’s a machine built specifically for track domination. Whether it’s endurance racing or hot laps, the GTR has been engineered to handle the most demanding circuits in the world.
It can also be used in private track events and non-competitive motorsports, and McLaren offers support for owners who want to participate in these events.
7. Limited Production
Only 75 units of the Senna GTR were produced, making it extremely rare and exclusive.
The high demand from collectors and track-day enthusiasts, combined with its limited production, ensures that the Senna GTR is a highly sought-after vehicle.
