MP4-12C GT3

The McLaren MP4-12C GT3, introduced for 2011 GT3 racing season, represents racing variant of MP4-12C road car featuring detuned 3.8-liter M838T twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing approximately 493-500 horsepower complying with FIA GT3 class regulations, representing unique turbocharged entry in GT3 category dominated by naturally aspirated competitors. Carbon MonoCell chassis carried from road car provides exceptional rigidity and safety while Ricardo six-speed sequential gearbox replaces road car seven-speed for weight savings and race-specific gearing. Braking system features six-piston monoblock calipers with 15-inch ventilated rotors front and four-piston calipers with 14-inch discs rear. Weight varies between 1,230-1,270 kg depending on specification and Balance of Performance adjustments. Track width increases 10mm while retaining road car signature scissor doors, slick racing tires, roll cage, and extensive aerodynamic modifications.

The MP4-12C GT3 represents McLaren return to customer GT racing providing privateer teams with competitive chassis demonstrating brand engineering excellence beyond Formula 1. Steering wheel adapted directly from McLaren-Mercedes MP4-24 Formula 1 car features extensive button, switch, and knob array for race systems control. Twin-turbocharged configuration provides unique characteristics compared to naturally aspirated GT3 competitors including different torque delivery and turbo lag management requiring distinct driving techniques. The combination of twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8 engine as sole turbo GT3 competitor, carbon MonoCell chassis providing Formula 1-derived construction, Ricardo sequential gearbox optimized for racing, and McLaren racing pedigree supporting customer programs makes MP4-12C GT3 technically sophisticated racing car offering competitive performance in international GT3 championships demonstrating McLaren commitment to customer motorsport beyond factory Formula 1 efforts.