Gordon Murray Special Vehicles has unveiled the new S1 at Monterey Car Week — a modern reinterpretation of the road-going McLaren F1.
While the original F1 is considered one of the greatest cars in history, the S1 clearly aims to preserve its core philosophy: minimal weight, analog driving feel, and maximum focus on the driver. Unlike the extreme S1 LM, this version is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.
The S1 is based on the carbon monocoque of the S1 LM, but features an entirely new body. Its shapes are instantly recognizable, yet the designers have made them cleaner and more restrained.
At the front, there are large air intakes and modern headlights neatly integrated into the bodywork. The mirrors are mounted on the front pillars, and the design of the lightweight wheels is inspired by the rims used on the 1992 McLaren F1 show car.
The signature dihedral doors are retained, but now provide easier access to the cabin. The look is completed by a roof-mounted air intake, retro-styled rear end, and four exhaust outlets.
Unlike the S1 LM, the road-going S1 dispenses with the aggressive aerodynamic kit featuring a massive front splitter, side skirts, and a fixed rear wing. In its place is active aerodynamics integrated directly into the bodywork.
This system adapts to driving and braking conditions, prioritizing not maximum downforce but improved tire grip, balance, and confident behavior on public roads.
The interior retains one of the McLaren F1’s most distinctive features — the three-seat layout with the driver’s seat positioned centrally. In front of the driver is a three-spoke steering wheel, while the instrument panel combines a central analog gauge with two digital displays on either side.
At the same time, the cabin has become significantly more modern and comfortable. It features premium leather, exclusive fabrics, and individually selected trim. A lightweight audio system, additional sound insulation, and updated multimedia displays are also fitted.
The main attraction lies behind the cabin. The S1 is powered by a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V12 developed by Cosworth, featuring lightweight pistons, titanium valves and connecting rods, a dry-sump lubrication system, and a heat shield coated in 24-carat gold.
The engine revs to an incredible 12,100 rpm and produces 690 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This is slightly less than the S1 LM, but here the engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Thanks to a more direct cable routing, GMSV promises exceptionally precise shifts with a distinctive mechanical “rifle bolt” feel.
The suspension has also been adapted for everyday roads. Ground clearance has been increased by 0.4 inches compared to the S1 LM, and the dampers have been retuned to make the car more comfortable on long journeys while retaining steering precision, agility, and feedback.
According to Gordon Murray, the goal was to reveal the beauty and purity of the original design after removing the most extreme aerodynamic elements of the S1 LM. The result is a car you can comfortably drive along the coast from Los Angeles to Monterey, enjoying every gear, every corner, and the sound of the V12.
Only 64 examples will be built, each created to the individual specification of its owner. The price has not yet been disclosed, but given the exclusivity, hand assembly, carbon-fiber construction, and unique V12, it will almost certainly exceed $1 million.
