McLaren's "Papaya c...
 
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McLaren's "Papaya cars"...

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Rich Sufficool
(@rich-sufficool)
Illustrious Member
Joined: 6 years ago
Posts: 5023
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One of the most successful designs in Indy 500 history before everyone had to share the Dallara body was the McLaren M16C powered by the venerable Offenhauser 2.9 liter 4 cylinder engine. In its DOHC turbocharged configuration, it put out an astounding 700HP... not bad for an engine developed around 1930 and sold as a marine engine until Miller used the early 2.5 liter version to break the land speed record in 1930. By 1933, Fred Offenhauser became sole owner of now "Offenhauser Racing"  After that, the 'Offy' sat on 4 wheels in every type of racing machines imaginable. Johnny Rutherford drove this car to great success with the #3 winning the 1973 and renumbered #2 coming in second the following year. The M16s were nicknamed the 'Papaya Cars' being painted Papaya Orange. ( the preceding McLaren cars were 'Kiwis', if that makes any sense). This is another excellent model from the late lamented Carousel 1.

McLaren 011 001
McLaren 014
McLaren 015
McLaren 026
McLaren 021 001
McLaren 005 001
McLaren 007 001
McLaren 006 001
McLaren 003
McLaren 004 001
McLaren 010 001
McLaren 018
McLaren 016 001
McLaren 017 001
McLaren 013 001
McLaren 024 001

 



   
john barry, Steve Jacobs, Jeff G and 3 people reacted
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(@chris)
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Joined: 29 years ago
Posts: 10620
 
Posted by: @rich-sufficool

2.9 liter 4 cylinder engine. In its DOHC turbocharged configuration, it put out an astounding 700HP.

I need one similar to this so I can say I have one in my collection. Super high-tech for the mid '70's.    Even by today's standards, this is staggering performance for a 4 banger!

Outstanding pics Rich.



   
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Gavin
(@gavin)
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Joined: 6 years ago
Posts: 1269
 

Great looking model & I LOVE the Papaya Orange!



   
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