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Forum 18
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Topic starter
21/08/2026 10:01 am
Originally conceived as a street car engine, the engineers developed the S70/2 V12 that so exceeded expectations that it turned the boys at Ferrari on their heads. The horsepower potential along with it smooth delivery and unbreakable nature demanded it be used in Formula 0ne. When word got out to the FIA, they immediately looked for a way to ban it if only not to have it embarrass the competition. The 6.1iter DOHC naturally aspirated V12 was designed for McLaren to produce 627 HP @ 7400 rpm when over 1000 HP could have easily been achieved. Its torque was such that it twisted the initial drivetrain that had to be completely redesigned. The Henkel Corporation's Loctite Division partnered with McLaren in 1995 with this #41 car winning Le Mans that year overall and GT1 class with the other McLarens placing 3rd, 4th and 5th. For the BPR Global GT Series that year, McLaren and privateer teams won both the Team and Manufacturers Championships. As with the McLaren street cars, the engine bay was famously lined in 24kt gold foil to reflect the radiant engine heat. This #41 car soldiered on until the 1998 Le Mans (this model's marking) when it ended in a crash. I love the sleek and sinister look of this model.
21/08/2026 11:53 am
Great story, photos and diecast.
21/08/2026 4:32 pm
The 1995 Le Mans winner in its configuration and race number for that year.
Thank you Rich for the excellent post and images. McLaren was a surprise winner in 1995.
This post was modified 2 months ago by David Green