McLaren Automotive, officially established in 2010, may seem like a newcomer, but it built on a legacy dating back to the iconic McLaren F1 of the early ’90s. Their first production car, the MP4-12C, launched in 2011 with cutting-edge aerodynamics and a powerful twin-turbo V8. The follow-up, the P1 hypercar, arrived in 2013, cementing McLaren’s status in the “Holy Trinity” of hybrids alongside Ferrari and Porsche. McLaren Special Operations (MSO) emerged to deliver bespoke models, driving customer demand.
At the upcoming Mecum Auctions Indy 2025, a rare opportunity arises for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire four of the most remarkable and exclusive McLarens ever produced. These include a 2020 McLaren Sabre, a prototype Speedtail, the Formula 1-inspired track-only Solus, and the open-cockpit Elva. Each one offers staggering performance and bespoke design and rarity—hallmarks of McLaren’s elite MSO (McLaren Special Operations) division.
2020 McLaren Sabre
The McLaren Sabre, inspired by the Senna, pushes the hypercar envelope further with a factory-rated 824 HP from its 4.0L twin-turbo V8—making it McLaren’s most powerful non-hybrid road car at the time. While built primarily for road use, it sacrifices nothing in performance, achieving a top speed of 218 MPH. Limited to just 15 units and tailored specifically for U.S. homologation, the Sabre was a product of McLaren Special Operations (MSO) and sold exclusively to a select group of American clients.
This particular Sabre, number 7 of 15, has only 2,463 miles and is uniquely outfitted with bespoke GT comfort seats—unlike any other in the series. The car features MSO Modica Blue paint, exposed carbon fiber bodywork, and aerodynamic elements enhanced with Paris Blue pinstripes.
Its lightweight carbon monocoque chassis houses a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and 4-wheel carbon-ceramic disc brakes. Standout design elements include dihedral doors, Gorilla Glass, a fixed rear wing with active aero, a blue-tinted carbon dash, and diamond-milled center-lock wheels wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero tires.
2020 McLaren Speedtail XP3
Introduced in 2020, the McLaren Speedtail is the brand’s fastest and most aerodynamically advanced model to date. It combines a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 and an electric motor to generate 1,035 horsepower, managed by a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Its lightweight aluminum suspension and carbon ceramic brakes enhance handling, while testing included over 30 runs exceeding 250 MPH, including one at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. The Speedtail’s streamlined carbon fiber design eliminates excess body gaps, boosting aerodynamic efficiency. It features a central driving position with a three-seat layout, dihedral doors, and camera-based side mirrors. Customization is offered through the MSO program, making each car unique.
This particular Speedtail, showing 2,212 miles, is a standout example, equipped with over $1 million in options. It features ultra-rare 1K titanium-infused carbon fiber—a $560,000 option—and is the only one with matching contour packs. As XP3, or Experimental Prototype 3, it played a key role in developing several key components. Additional highlights include blue brake calipers, 24K gold heat shielding, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and platinum badging, making it one of the most exclusive Speedtails ever built.
2023 McLaren Solus GT
This 2023 McLaren Solus GT, chassis No. 6 of only 25 produced by McLaren Special Operations, is a track-only hypercar built for pure performance. Inspired by Formula 1 technology, the Solus features a naturally aspirated 5.0L V10 engine producing 858 horsepower and 829 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0–62 MPH time of just 2.5 seconds.
Power is channeled through a racing-spec 7-speed sequential gearbox with cut gears and a carbon fiber clutch. The engine and gearbox form part of the car’s structure, reflecting true motorsport engineering. Aerodynamically, it boasts a front splitter, Venturi tunnels, and a twin-element rear wing.
Its carbon fiber monocoque and 3D-printed titanium Halo system ensure structural strength and safety. The suspension setup features pushrod and pull rod architecture for precision handling. Inside, the single-seat cockpit includes adjustable pedals, a six-point harness, air conditioning, and a carbon fiber steering wheel with an integrated display.
2021 McLaren Elva Roadster
The McLaren Elva is a striking homage to the brand’s racing legacy, inspired by Bruce McLaren’s M1 series. Its open-cockpit design, minimalist styling, and advanced aerodynamics reflect this heritage.
As the lightest road-legal McLaren, it features a carbon fiber monocoque and forgoes a traditional windscreen, instead utilizing the Active Air Management System to optimize airflow and enhance driver comfort. Powered by a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine delivering 804 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, it’s paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
This particular Elva was customized by its original owner with over $102,000 in options, including the $37,898 Pacific Colourstream paint that shifts between violet, magenta, and blue. Other upgrades include purple calipers, carbon fiber mirror caps, bespoke interior details, and an AAMS system ($8,489).
These cars will be available for bidding on May 17 and will surely racked up a ton of interest at the auction considering their rarity and exclusivity.
Source: Mecum Auctions
