McLaren reveals improved MP4-12C GT3 for 2013 racing

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McLaren reveals improved MP4-12C GT3 for 2013 racing

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Published: 17 January 2013

ARGUABLY one of the world's most technically advanced sports cars ever produced, the MP4-12C defied what was previously thought possible in automotive engineering.

While it is well known that the 493bhp supercar is eligible to compete in all FIA GT3 championships, McLaren GT have revealed details of an enhanced, more efficient and reliable version, which will this year also be able to compete in races across the globe.

McLaren MP4-12C GT3

The enhanced MP4-12C GT3 is expected to win up to twice the number of races it did last season.
Last year, the £325,000 car participated in 98 separate race meetings - achieving an impressive 19 victories and an additional 19 podium finishes for the 13 McLaren GT customer teams. A McLaren spokesman described it as 'a remarkable achievement for the car making its competitive debut'.

Last season, the left-hand drive 12C was only available for European-based GT teams and apart from standalone race events in Abu Dhabi, Azerbaijan and Macau, it raced in championships across Europe. It is now available worldwide for racing teams and, for the first time, collectors and non-race users.

McLaren 12C GT3 competitive debut season:

Benefitting from an upgraded cooling system - designed to optimise performance of the car in the more varied conditions and high temperatures found in global championships - the updated bonnet and ducting add a mean, stylish look to the 205mph McLaren 12C.

McLaren MP4-12C GT3

McLaren says the car will be more driveable, have greater reliability and be more efficient. It is a simpler car with a 'revised aerodynamic package' - designed to improve the balance and tyre management - and 'an upgraded ECU with a revised electrical system and alternative dampers'.

2013 McLaren 12C GT3 technical specification:

McLaren MP4-12C GT3

Chassis/Body:

- McLaren carbon fibre MonoCell with aluminium front and rear sub-frames - Bespoke lightweight carbon fibre body panels - Left hand drive - FIA approved safety roll cage

Aerodynamics:

- Front splitter - Rear wing, fully adjustable with gurney - Front and rear diffusers

Engine/Management:

- Race prepared 3.8L V8 twin turbo McLaren M838T - McLaren Electronics ECU interfacing with Bosch ABS and Shiftec transmission control units

Transmission:

- Six-speed sequential motorsport transmission pneumatically actuated via steering wheel mounted paddles

Electrical System:

- Lightweight motorsport specification wiring and connectors - Electronic power management system - Membrane type switch panel

Data System:

- McLaren Electronics 'ATLAS' data system - Digital dash display

Front/Rear Suspension:

- Double wishbone adjustable for ride height, camber and toe - Four-way adjustable dampers with coil over springs - Motorsport axles with single wheel retaining nut - Adjustable anti-roll bars - Forged aluminium wheels: Front 12" x 18", Rear 13" x 18"

Steering:

- Electro-hydraulic power assisted steering - Unique McLaren GT steering wheel developed from MP4-24 Formula 1 steering wheel

Fuel System:

- Motorsport 'bag tank' system with 120L capacity - Motorsport 'quick-fill' system

Lubrication: - Mobil engine and transmission lubrication

Brake System:

- Akebono monoblock calipers with ventilated discs: Front - 6 piston caliper, 378 x 36mm disc Rear - 4 piston caliper, 355 x 32mm disc - Bosch motorsport ABS