This could have been McLaren’s first road car: McLaren M6GT

Before the McLaren F1 was ever on the drawing board, Bruce McLaren dreamed of building a road car like no other. The result: a prototype McLaren M6GT based on the McLaren M6A Can-Am race car. Bruce drove the car himself, registered as OBH 500H; it was light, loud, and unbelievably quick for the time. Unfortunately, his tragic death in 1970 ended the project, and the prototype stood as a lone testament to his vision. 56 years later, McLaren Special Operations decided to finish what he started by recreating another M6GT from the ground up.

McLaren M6GT styling

The M6GT is built on the chassis of the McLaren M6A race car, the same as the prototype. The original moulds from the 70s were used, enabling McLaren to recreate the bodywork of the car to the exact dimensions. The car is finished in a bespoke cream white colour scheme named ‘Colnbrook’ to tribute the factory where Bruce initially developed his road car prototype. The design is influenced by the low and wide proportions that were used by the Can-Am endurance racing cars of the late 60s. The aerodynamic fibreglass bodywork would eventually influence the iconic McLaren F1.

McLaren M6GT interior

The cabin of the M6GT sets itself apart from the digital Instrument clusters found in modern cars. McLaren prioritised a completely analog race-derived instrument cluster straight from the 1970s. Featuring a hand-turned solid walnut gear knob that replicates the tactile feel of the original prototype, the seating arrangement features custom vinyl materials inspired by British Racing Green.

McLaren M6GT engine and powertrain

The M6GT is powered by a small-block V-8, which sits just above the rear axle and features the same camel-hump style cylinder heads. While McLaren has not quoted any power and top speed figures. The original prototype was powered by a 5.7Litre small-block Chevy V-8, made 365bhp and 501Nm of torque, paired to a five-speed manual transaxle. Helping it do 0-98kmph in 4.2 seconds with a top speed of 265kmph.

McLaren M6GT pricing and availability

The McLaren M6GT is a heritage build by the McLaren Special Operations team and is not for retail. It is set to be a part of the brand’s permanent heritage collection. The M6GT will be present at the McLaren display at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026.