Gordon Murray S1 LM: Road-Legal Tribute to the McLaren F1 GTR

Combining T.50 engineering with a Cosworth-built V12 producing over 700 hp, it blends racing heritage with cutting-edge innovation.

Here’s why this remarkable machine matters.

The S1 LM is more than just a tribute to the F1 GTR's historic Le Mans victory.

Gordon Murray has taken his T.50 philosophy of extreme lightness and pure driving experience and created a road-legal homage that proves analog performance still matters.

For collectors and enthusiasts, this one-off car represents the perfect blend of racing heritage and modern engineering excellence.

Built on T.50 Foundations

The S1 LM borrows heavily from Murray's T.50 program. It keeps the iconic three-seat layout and six-speed manual transmission that made the original McLaren F1 legendary.

The bodywork uses the same lightweight composite panels from the T.50s, reducing weight while improving strength. Visually, it channels the F1 GTR with racing-inspired proportions and aerodynamic details.

The 700bhp Cosworth V12

At the heart of the S1 LM is its rebuilt V12 engine, reworked by Cosworth. Displacement increases from 4.0 to 4.3 liters using lighter internals and strengthened components.

The result? Over 700bhp and a redline that screams past 12,000rpm. This naturally aspirated powerplant delivers the kind of visceral experience that turbocharged engines simply can't match.

Technical Specifications

Design and Driving Experience

The silhouette draws from the F1 GTR but adds Murray's signature touches: functional aerodynamics, tight packaging, and a driver-focused cockpit.

Despite its track-focused appearance, the car remains road-legal.

Murray balanced raw performance with usability through accessible controls and suspension tuning suitable for both roads and circuits.

Why It Matters

In an era of electrification, the S1 LM proves that specialty manufacturers can still create compelling, driver-focused cars.

It's a statement that hypercar engineering and lightweight design still produce uniquely rewarding vehicles.

This approach contrasts with modern hybrid offerings like the McLaren W1, showing there's still demand for pure, analog performance.

The Verdict

The S1 LM isn't just a copy of the F1 GTR. It's a thoughtful homage that preserves the original's spirit while offering modern engineering and road legality.

For purists, it's a technical masterpiece. For collectors, it's proof that analog custom hypercars remain valuable and relevant.

Thirty years after the McLaren F1 GTR's Le Mans victory, the S1 LM ensures that legendary performance remains drivable. Like the McLaren 750S Le Mans Edition, it's a fitting tribute to motorsport history.