Gordon Murray Automotive’s S1 represents a deeply considered return to the philosophy that made the original McLaren F1 such an enduring benchmark. Conceived as a more road-oriented counterpart to the extreme S1 LM, the S1 combines a central driving position, a three-seat cabin, naturally aspirated V12 power, and an uncompromising focus on mechanical purity. Murray himself describes the car as a product of everything learned through decades of developing the F1, T50, T33, and subsequent GMA projects.
At its heart is a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated Cosworth V12 producing 690 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. The engine retains its spectacular 12,100-rpm redline, while its torque delivery has been recalibrated to provide stronger response from as low as 2,000 rpm. Power reaches the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission, with the S1 receiving a longer sixth gear to enhance its touring capability.
Unlike the S1 LM, the S1 abandons the prominent rear wing, oversized splitter, and aggressive side skirts in favor of a cleaner aerodynamic profile. Its philosophy is centered more heavily on mechanical grip, although ground-effect aerodynamics remain an important part of the car’s performance strategy. Active aerodynamic elements integrated into the rear diffuser help balance front and rear downforce and maintain the desired center of pressure.
The road-focused brief also brings greater suspension compliance, a 10-millimeter increase in ride height, switchable power steering, and redesigned doors with conventional drop-down glass. Inside, Murray remains committed to analog interaction: there are no touchscreens, with physical rotary controls, an analog tachometer, and two compact digital displays providing essential information and infotainment.
Production is limited to 64 examples—significantly more than the five-unit S1LM run, but still exceptionally scarce. According to Murray, the S1 is effectively a one-off chapter for GMA’s Special Vehicles division, created in response to customer demand and unlikely to be repeated.
More than simply another hypercar, the S1 is Murray’s modern interpretation of the ultimate analog road car: a machine that channels the spirit of the McLaren F1 while incorporating more than 30 years of engineering knowledge and development. In that respect, it may be the closest thing yet to a new-generation F1 philosophy.
Source: Top Gear
