McLaren MP4/2C OW 1986

Specifications McLaren MP4/2C OW 1986 blueprint

The McLaren MP4/2C is a Formula One racing car which was used by the McLaren Racing team during the 1986 Formula One season. Designed by Gordon Murray and Steve Nichols, it was an evolution of the MP4/2B chassis, built by John Barnard and his team based on earlier successes with the TAG TTE turbo engine commissioned by Porsche. This was to be their most successful car yet, won five of the sixteen Grand Prixs it was entered including two 1-2 finishes. The MP4/2C was a complete ground-up design, taking in the lessons learned from the previous MP4/2B model, with a unique aerodynamic package that had its roots in the active suspension concept developed in the McLaren MP4/2A. The car also featured McLarens own in-house designed and built rear differential, in place of the out-sourced unit of its predecessor. The MP4/2C was powered by a TAG TTE turbocharged engine based on the Porsche 935 engine used in the Group C racing series. With a capacity of 1.5 liters, the TAG-Porsche engine was the smallest used in the 1986 Formula One season, yet it still put out 630 bhp. Its efficiency also attributed much to its success, with the MP4/2C passing the minimum weight limit of 540 kg without a ballast. With its modern aerodynamic package, efficient engine and light weight, the McLaren MP4/2C was the car to beat in 1986. It dominated the season, with Alain Prost taking the Drivers Championship and the McLaren team winning the Constructors Championship. Even to this day, the McLaren MP4/2C remains one of the most successful Formula One cars in history.