The McLaren 720S GT3: My Perfect Looking Race Car

If I were to personally name the best-looking race car, it would undoubtedly be the McLaren 720S GT3. This model, the motorsport-homologated version of the 720S, is meticulously designed for the GT3 program. Beneath its hood lies a potent 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, a motorsport-prepared M840T producing over 700 hp with almost 4000cc of displacement. The mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive marvel features a six-speed sequential transmission, adjustable dampers, and coil-over springs, all supported by the lightweight McLaren carbon fibre MonoCage II chassis, tipping the scales at just over 1300kg. Its aerodynamics are equally impressive, boasting a bespoke front splitter, floor assembly, dive planes, and a GT3-spec rear wing that ensures exceptional grip in braking zones and around corners.

Constrained by GT3 specifications and BoP, the 720S GT3 has achieved notable success, securing 8 wins, 14 additional class victories, and participating in over 190 GTWorld events worldwide. A recent advancement is the McLaren 720S GT3 Evo, the first GT model crafted in-house by McLaren Customer Racing. Rooted in the 720S series, this evolution builds on the 720S GT3's triumphs, positioning it at the forefront of international GT racing. Key enhancements include optimised aerodynamics for increased downforce, improved suspension adjustability, and enhanced serviceability and robustness, particularly in wheel-to-wheel encounters during endurance races.

The McLaren 720S GT3X

Before the release of the Evo GT3, McLaren's engineering team undertook a unique project: the construction of a GT3-style race car with a distinctive feature, it is ineligible for participation in established racing events. Yes, you read that correctly. The innovative minds at McLaren chose to build a car not tied down by the usual racing rules.

While sharing the same engine as its GT3 counterpart, the 720S GT3X differentiates itself by affording an additional 30 horsepower boost, activated at the press of a push-to-pass button. This model was designed for enthusiasts seeking an immersive track day experience, offering a glimpse into the potential of GT3 racing, only better. Distinguished by a revised roll cage design and interior layout, the 720S GT3X goes a step beyond by accommodating an optional passenger seat, probably intended for a track guide. Lighter than the GT3 and equipped with refined aerodynamics that enhance traction through corners, it exhibits remarkable acceleration and speed on the track.

Outperforming the GT3 consistently by seconds on any track at any racing condition, this beast of a race car demonstrated its prowess by securing victory in the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed hill climb timed shootout final with a time of 45.01 seconds, over a second faster than the nearest competitor.

I didn't know about the GT3X before researching for this article, but it seems like the McLaren 720S GT3X is the race car I never knew I wanted. With its captivating aesthetics and exceptional performance, it truly sets itself apart.