The McLaren M860 GTR is a 3,994 cc, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine, co-developed with Ricardo and produced between 2018 and 2021. It features a flat-plane crankshaft, dry-sump lubrication, and direct fuel injection, delivering outputs exceeding 600 kW (816 PS) in track-focused configurations. The use of a flat-plane crankshaft enables a higher, more aggressive engine note and faster revving character, suited to its motorsport-derived purpose.
Fitted exclusively to the limited-edition Senna GTR, the M860 GTR was engineered for uncompromising track performance and driver engagement. Emissions compliance for road-legal variants (where applicable) was managed through sophisticated engine management and catalytic conversion systems, meeting Euro 6 standards for its production period.
One documented engineering focus was managing extreme thermal loads under sustained track use. This is addressed in McLaren Service Bulletin M860‑GTR‑01, which details the calibration of the advanced cooling and oil systems to maintain component integrity during high-stress operation. The engine represents the pinnacle of McLaren’s internal combustion development before their hybrid transition.
Production years 2018–2021 meet Euro 6 standards for applicable road-legal derivatives (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/MCL/860).
The McLaren M860 GTR is a 3,994 cc twin-turbocharged V8 engineered for ultimate track performance (2018-2021). It combines a flat-plane crankshaft with dry-sump lubrication and bespoke turbochargers to deliver explosive power delivery and high-revving character. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards for road derivatives, it prioritizes performance above all else.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,994 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve, flat-plane crank | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 73.6 mm | |
| Power output | 600–675 kW (816–918 PS) | |
| Torque | 800–900 Nm @ 5,500–7,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV6) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 (for road-legal derivatives) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Dual-circuit water-cooled with auxiliary oil coolers | |
| Turbocharger | Twin mono-scroll turbochargers (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven, dual overhead camshafts | |
| Oil type | McLaren MTF-94 (SAE 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 205 kg |
The flat-plane crank and high boost pressure deliver an aggressive, high-revving character ideal for track use but demand meticulous maintenance. McLaren MTF-94 (10W-60) oil is critical due to its specific high-temperature film strength protecting bearings under extreme loads. Extended track sessions require cooldown laps to prevent heat soak damage to turbos and electronics. The Bosch HDEV6 injectors demand high-octane (RON 98+) fuel to prevent pre-ignition. Engine health is monitored via telemetry; any fault codes should be addressed immediately by authorized McLaren technicians.
Oil Specs: Requires McLaren MTF-94 (10W-60) specification (McLaren Owner's Manual). This is a bespoke formulation.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to road-legal derivatives only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/MCL/860). Track-only GTR models are exempt.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards at the crankshaft. Peak figures require 98+ RON fuel (McLaren TIS Doc. M860-FUEL-003).
McLaren Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M860-ENG-001, M860-COOL-002, M860-FUEL-003
McLaren Service Information Bulletin (SIB) M860-GTR-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/MCL/860)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The McLaren M860 GTR was used exclusively in the McLaren Senna GTR platform with longitudinal mid-engine mounting and is not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations as it was bespoke for a single model, and no facelift occurred during its production run. All technical specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the engine block, adjacent to the right-hand cylinder bank (McLaren TIS M860-ID-001). The 10th digit of the VIN will be 'K' for 2019 model year Senna GTRs. The engine is visually identified by its carbon fiber intake plenum, twin top-mounted intercoolers, and exposed titanium exhaust manifolds. Critical differentiation from the road-going M840T: The M860 GTR has a unique ECU calibration, larger turbos, and a flat-plane crankshaft producing a distinct exhaust note. All service parts are specific to the Senna GTR and not interchangeable with other McLaren V8s.
The M860 GTR's primary reliability consideration is thermal management under extreme track conditions. McLaren's internal telemetry data indicates that sustained high loads without proper cooldown can stress auxiliary systems, while UK DVSA records for road-legal variants show no systemic failures. Adherence to post-drive cooldown procedures and using the specified fuel/oil are critical for long-term component health.
Analysis derived from McLaren technical bulletins (2018-2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MCLAREN M860-GTR.
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