www.QV500.com - McLaren F1 Part 9: GTR ’97 ‘Long Tail’

But whereas the F1 GT and prior GTR's had retained the stock 6064cc displacement, GTR ’97's had their capacity dropped to 5990cc, despite still using engines designated Type S70/3 GTR. This was achieved thanks to a stroke reduction of 1.1mm (from 87 to 85.9mm) while bore went unchanged at 86mm. Power stayed at 600bhp but undoubtedly the most significant mechanical development surrounded the gearbox, GTR 97's featuring sequential six-speed transmissions to replace the traditional manual of previous variants. Other distinctive changes saw the most radical aero package of all, a stretched nose, tail and wheelbase making a big difference to the cars overall appearance. The GT's five-spoke magnesium wheels were exchanged for 20-spoke items and a huge fully adjustable aerofoil fixed upon the rear deck. 1997 saw BMW Motorsport take an impressive five victories against Porsche's 993 GT1 and the AMG-built Mercedes CLK GTR. Ten GTR '97's were constructed by McLaren, the chassis numbers of which and histories can be found in Part 9.

Major McLaren F1 GTR Victories - 1997