McLaren’s Rarest Designation Returns To Close Out A Legendary Series
McLaren just unveiled what it’s labeling the pinnacle of an era-defining series. 777 horsepower, bespoke treatment inside and out, and a limited run of only 200 examples already place this supercar in rare company, literally, though it isn’t all about the horsepower figure, as this new model comes with a slew of high-performance additions – as expected from the British brand – that make it worthy of its top-dog status among some of McLaren’s most visceral models.
The HS Name Returns For A Rare Run Of Bespoke Supercars
McLaren just pulled the covers off of its newest addition to the 720S, 750S, and 765LT supercar series, the 788HS. Those privy to the brand’s lineage will have noticed the 788HS carries the HS designation, which stands for “High Sport,” and is reserved for McLaren’s best examples of a series. This rare designation all but ensures the 788HS’ spot in McLaren history, as it has only been given to two other models in the brand’s 60+ year history. Being of such prestige, the 788HS will offer the option for buyers to completely customize their model through McLaren Special Operations.
The cabin is completely driver-focused, with carbon fiber additions that add to the supercar aesthetic while shaving weight.McLaren’s Infotainment System II is present, as is the Control Launcher (MCL). These additions ensure complete immersion, though they also make the 788HS livable to the extent any supercar could be. In other words, comfort and accommodation aren’t simply afterthoughts; they’re baked into the 788HS’ overall package.
Production will be limited to 200 examples globally, with equal split across Coupe and Spider variants. As mentioned, buyers will have access to bespoke customization options via McLaren Special Operations, so there’s a good chance that, if you’re able to get one, you’ll have a one-of-one example. Prices aren’t available yet, though, based on past models in the series, expect it to sit comfortably in the half-million-or-more ballpark.
The McLaren 788HS Features The Best Of What Made The Series Memorable
Like the rest of the series, the 788HS is named after the power it puts down: 788 PS, or 777 horsepower. This comes from the infallible M840T twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. If that engine code sounds familiar, it’s because it is the same platform used for the previous series models, albeit tuned and specced differently per model.
|
Engine |
4.0-Liter Twin-turbo V8 |
|---|---|
|
Horsepower |
777 @ 7,500 RPM |
|
Torque |
590 Lb.-Ft. @5,500 RPM |
The 788HS’ variant features many of the same aspects found in the 765LT, though it also gets a unique engine mount calibration that delivers enhanced engagement. McLaren was also able to coax more power out of the V8, allowing it to race to 60 MPH in 2.8 seconds with a top speed of 204 MPH. That 0-60 MPH time is .01 seconds slower than the 765LT, though road tests proved the 765LT’s factory figure to be conservative, so we’ll know more of the 788HS’ true ability once someone gets it on the track.
Once on the track, it will have all it needs to impress not only on the straightaways, but also in the corners, thanks to an advanced chassis that includes the brand’s Proactive Chassis Control III linked-hydraulic suspension system, which has been specifically recalibrated for the 788HS. Its ride height is also 5mm lower than the 720S, which makes it more dynamic and engaging, along with big brake discs derived from the McLaren Senna, six-piston front calipers, and race-inspired brake cooling ducts.
Formula 1-Inspired Aero That Makes A Statement Before You Start The Engine
The expertly sculpted exterior has a huge visual impact, though it’s all functional and grants the 788HS the most advanced aero package ever seen on the platform. Increasing the downforce by 10 percent is a new S-Duct hood, a raised active rear spoiler, and an intricate Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser.
Of course, these aren’t the only body mods at play, but these are the key specs that make the lightweight tuning even more effective. Speaking of, much of the aero and body parts are made of advanced carbon fiber, leaving the 788HS sitting at a dry weight of 2,789 pounds. With 777 horsepower on tap, the 788HS earns the series’ highest power-to-weight ratio of the entire series at 614 BHP-per-ton.
The new McLaren 788HS has been designed and engineered with a singular focus; to deliver a visceral experience and captivating drive through its precise balance of performance, sound, dynamism and individuality. It represents the ultimate expression of our supercar series that began with the 720S and becomes only the third McLaren to wear our HS designation – a fitting finale for a much loved and critically acclaimed car.
– Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer, Chief Commercial Officer, McLaren Automotive
Sources: McLaren, Classic.com
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