McLaren F1 Engine Power: Specs, Performance, and Legacy
Bottom line: The McLaren F1’s 6.1‑liter BMW S70/2 V12 delivers 627 hp, pushes the car past 240 mph, and still defines what a super‑car engine can be.
McLaren F1 Engine Power: Specs, Performance, and Legacy
Image: McLaren F1 Engine Power: Specs, Performance, and Legacy – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The engine lives in a honeycomb‑shaped aluminum and magnesium cradle, a design that keeps weight down while looking futuristic. Its exposed V12 is a visual centerpiece, and the engine cover is painted the same carbon‑fiber black as the body, giving the car a clean, purposeful look.
Performance & Mileage
With a 5‑speed manual gearbox, the engine revs to 7,800 rpm and launches the F1 from 0‑60 mph in just 3.2 seconds. On the highway you’ll see about 20 mpg, while city driving drops to roughly 12 mpg – numbers that feel generous for a 6‑liter V12.
Key performance figures:
- Peak power: 627 hp at 7,800 rpm
- Torque: 479 lb‑ft at 5,600 rpm
- Top speed: 240.1 mph (official)
Price & Rivals
When it launched in 1992, the F1 cost about $815,000, making it the most expensive production car of its time. Today, original examples sell for several million dollars, out‑pricing most modern hypercars.
Its closest rivals back then were the Jaguar XJ220 and the Porsche 959, but none matched the F1’s blend of raw V12 power, lightweight construction, and driver‑focused ergonomics.
| Engine | Mileage | Price (1992) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW S70/2 6.1 L V12 | ~12 mpg city / 20 mpg highway | $815,000 |
|
FAQ
- What is the fuel economy of the McLaren F1? It averages about 12 mpg in city driving and 20 mpg on the highway.
- How much horsepower does the McLaren F1’s engine produce? The BMW S70/2 V12 makes 627 horsepower.
- Is the McLaren F1 still worth buying today? For collectors, its rarity, historical importance, and unmatched driving experience keep it highly desirable, though the price reflects that premium status.
Feel free to share your thoughts or memories of the F1 in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
