The McLaren M838T R is a 3,799 cc, twin‑turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2021. Developed in collaboration with Ricardo, it features a flat‑plane crankshaft, dry‑sump lubrication, and dual overhead camshafts per bank. In standard form for the 675LT, it delivered 496 kW (675 PS), with torque figures of 700 Nm, enabling exceptional track-focused acceleration.
Fitted exclusively to the limited‑edition 675LT and 675LT Spider, the M838T R was engineered for uncompromising track performance and driver engagement. Emissions compliance for road use was achieved through sophisticated engine management and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 6 standards.
One documented enhancement over the standard M838T was the revised turbocharger assembly, detailed in McLaren Service Bulletin MSB‑00838T‑R01. This revision, featuring optimized compressor wheels and revised wastegate control, reduced turbo lag and improved throttle response for circuit use.
Production years 2015–2021 meet Euro 6 standards for limited road use (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/MCL/675LT).
The McLaren M838T R is a 3,799 cc twin‑turbo V8 engineered for track-focused supercars (2015-2021). It combines a flat‑plane crankshaft with twin variable‑boost turbochargers to deliver explosive power delivery and high‑revving character. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards for limited road use, it prioritizes performance above all else.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,799 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve, flat-plane crank | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 69.9 mm | |
| Power output | 496 kW (675 PS) @ 7,100 rpm | |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 5,000–6,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV6) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with auxiliary oil coolers | |
| Turbocharger | Twin variable-boost units (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | McLaren C30 Spec (SAE 0W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 208 kg |
The twin-turbo setup provides immense, linear power ideal for track use but demands meticulous maintenance. McLaren C30 specification oil (0W-40) is mandatory for optimal turbo and bearing protection under extreme conditions. Extended high-RPM operation is within design parameters, but cool-down cycles are recommended post-track use. The dry-sump system requires specific procedures for oil level checks, detailed in the owner's manual. Engine health is continuously monitored; any fault triggers a protective limp mode.
Oil Specs: Requires McLaren C30 specification (0W-40) oil (McLaren Owner's Manual 675LT). This is a bespoke formulation.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 675LT/Spider models for limited road use (VCA Type Approval #VCA/MCL/675LT).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards at the crankshaft (McLaren Technical Brief TB-M838T-R).
McLaren Technical Information System: Docs TB-M838T-R, ER-675LT-01, SIB MSB-00838T-R01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/MCL/675LT)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The McLaren M838T R was used exclusively in the McLaren 675LT platform with longitudinal, mid-mounted installation. This engine received specific adaptations-lighter internals, revised turbochargers, and optimized cooling-for the 675LT's track focus, creating interchange limits with the standard M838T. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code 'M838T R' is laser-etched on the front face of the intake plenum (McLaren TIS Doc. M838T-ID). The 10th VIN digit is 'G' for 2016 models and 'F' for 2015 models. Visual identification: unique titanium exhaust manifold (standard M838T uses Inconel), specific orange/red engine bay accents on 675LT models. Critical differentiation from M838T: M838T R has a specific ECU calibration (part number ending in -R) and unique turbocharger part numbers. Service parts are specific to the 675LT and not interchangeable with other M838T variants without full system calibration (McLaren SIB MSB-00838T-R01).
The M838T R's primary reliability consideration is thermal stress on exhaust components under sustained track use. McLaren service data indicates a higher replacement rate for pre-catalytic converter oxygen sensors and turbocharger wastegate actuators in vehicles with significant track history. Aggressive driving and insufficient post-session cool-downs accelerate wear, making adherence to McLaren's specific track-day maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from McLaren technical bulletins (2015-2021) and internal service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MACLAREN M838TR.
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