McLaren has begun track testing its new 720S GT3
racer, at locations across Europe, the U.S. and Middle East. The car is
currently being prepped for its competition debut in 2019 when it will be
eligible for all GT3 grids globally.
Before its track debut, the car underwent extensive
computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Now, it will endure a punishing
test regime that’s mean to validate computer data and assumed long-distance
durability.
The 720S GT3 also features a
light and very stiff carbon fiber MonoCage II chassis structure. Meanwhile,
power is provided by a race-prepped version of the 720S’ M840T 4.0-liter
twin-turbo V8 engine, albeit with an improved torque curve and new electronic
shift actuator for the six-speed sequential paddle gearbox.
More than 90% of the regular 720S‘ components were
changed or optimized for the GT3 version. Features include changes to the
bodywork (bespoke splitter, floor assembly, dive-planes, GT3-spec wing etc),
aerodynamics and suspension, a revised transmission, new braking system and
loads more. McLaren has confirmed that the price of the 720S GT3
is £ 440,000 (US$ 565,407) Ex-Works.
