Wild track-only McLaren 720S GT3X revealed
British supercar-maker reveals even faster take on its 720S GT3 racer for wealthy track day fansMcLaren has unleashed a new track-only version of the McLaren 720S supercar that features more power and track-honed aerodynamics.
Created to sit above the already-unhinged 765LT in the McLaren Super Series, the new 2021 McLaren 720S GT3X is best viewed as an even faster version of its 720S GT3 race car without any FIA-mandated restrictions.
Developed by the car-maker's motorsport division, the standard racer's twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 has had its FIA-required air restrictors deleted, while a pair of larger turbos, bigger manifolds and a pair of blueprinted heads see power top 530kW.
This figure can be boosted a further 20kW to 550kW via a push-to-pass button in the heat of battle.
To cope with endless hot-lapping, McLaren has enhanced the GT3X's cooling system, while the brakes have been upgraded.
Externally, the 2021 McLaren 720S GT3X looks near identical to the standard GT3 racer, with a huge rear wing, enormous rear diffuser, dive planes and numerous intricate elements designed to maximise downforce while minimising drag.
Beneath its skin, it's thought the track-bred GT3 race suspension carries over, while the chassis is likely to feature a configurable traction control and ABS system.
Inside, the interior has been stripped to save weight, although a roll cage has been added. There's also space available for a passenger seat to be fitted.
McLaren has not yet announced how much or how many 720S GT3X models it plans to make. Instead, it's asked its customers to register their interest with the Woking-based car-maker.
Given the slower 720S GT3 race car costs £440,000 ($A790,000), McLaren is expected to charge a premium for its faster 720S GT3X.
Sadly, its extreme aero and more powerful engine means the 720S GT3X is strictly for track use only and isn't road legal.
Commenting on the extreme 720S, McLaren Automotive's motorsport boss Ian Morgan said: "We’ve already got a very good GT3-based car.
"We wanted to make it faster, so [there’s] more power, more acceleration, better braking and overall lap times considerably faster than the GT3."
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