1997 McLaren F1 GTR

For 1997 McLaren Automotive developed the GTR to meet major regulation changes made for both the FIA GT Series and the Le Mans 24 Hour race. These design modifications were aimed at further engine improvement, all new sequential transmission and radical aerodynamic changes. But most important of all was a substantial overall reduction in weight.

Weight reduction concentrated upon the chassis and powertrain although weight savings were achieved throughout the car. In its first development year the F1 GTR weighed 1050kg which was reduced to 1000kg for ’96. The 75kg target weight reduction for ’97 resulted in a car kerb weight of only 915kg.

These developments for 1997 improved average lap times by some four seconds from the previous season’s pace.

Three teams fielded six ’97 specification GTRs in both the FIA GT Championship and at Le Mans. In the FIA GT Championship Team BMW Motorsport took second place. Whilst at Le Mans, Gulf Team Davidoff won the GT Category and also finished second overall.

A testament to McLaren's magnificent GT car is the continued success of the ’97 GTR. With an established record for superb reliability, 1998 saw the Team Davidoff GTR conquer Ferrari to win the Monza 1000km. The EMKA Racing GTR not only won its GT1 category in the Privilege British GT Championship but took fourth place at Le Mans and established a new all-time record for the shortest time in the pits during the 24 hour classic.

Source : McLaren