The McLaren P76 is a 3,799 cc, 90‑degree V8 twin‑turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2017. Developed in partnership with Ricardo, it features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), dry sump lubrication, and direct fuel injection. This engine powered McLaren's inaugural road car, delivering outputs from 592 PS to 650 PS, establishing a benchmark for high‑performance, everyday supercars.
Fitted exclusively to the MP4‑12C and its derivatives (including the 650S and 625C), the P76 was engineered for explosive acceleration, refined high‑speed stability, and surprising daily drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise engine management and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 5 standards for its entire production run.
One documented engineering focus was managing heat soak in the compact engine bay, addressed through specific coolant routing and heat shielding per McLaren Engineering Report #MP4‑ENG‑001. The engine's architecture, with turbos mounted within the ‘hot vee’, was designed from inception to minimize lag and maximize packaging efficiency.
All production years (2011–2017) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/MCL/MP412C).
The McLaren P76 is a 3,799 cc 90-degree V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance supercars (2011-2017). It combines a flat-plane crankshaft with twin-turbochargers mounted in the ‘hot vee’ to deliver instant throttle response and immense power. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances track-focused performance with road usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,799 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 69.9 mm | |
| Power output | 592–650 PS (435–478 kW) | |
| Torque | 600–678 Nm @ 3,000–7,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (Bosch) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Dual-circuit water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin IHI turbochargers (hot vee) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | McLaren Supercar 5W-40 (or equivalent) | |
| Dry weight | 190 kg |
The ‘hot vee’ turbo layout provides near-instantaneous throttle response but generates significant heat, requiring the dual-circuit cooling system to manage temperatures under sustained load. Using the specified 5W-40 oil is critical for protecting the flat-plane crank and turbo bearings. The dry sump system allows for low engine mounting but requires specific pre-start procedures if the car has been idle for extended periods. Regular inspection of heat shielding around the exhaust manifolds and turbos is advised to prevent damage to surrounding components.
Oil Specs: Requires McLaren Supercar 5W-40 or equivalent meeting McLaren specification (McLaren Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all P76 engines (2011-2017) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/MCL/MP412C).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards at the crankshaft (McLaren Technical Publication TP-001).
McLaren Technical Publication TP-001
McLaren Engineering Report #MP4-ENG-001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/MCL/MP412C)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The McLaren P76 was used exclusively in McLaren Automotive's first generation of road cars with mid-engine, longitudinal mounting. This engine powered the foundational MP4-12C platform, with minor ECU and boost revisions for the 650S and 625C variants, maintaining full mechanical interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code 'P76' is cast into the engine block on the front left bank, near the alternator (McLaren Service Manual SM-001). The 8th digit of the VIN is '8' for all P76-powered vehicles. All P76 engines feature twin IHI turbochargers mounted centrally between the cylinder banks (‘hot vee’). Differentiation between MP4-12C and 650S/625C variants is primarily via ECU software and boost pressure; core engine hardware is identical. Service parts for the long block are generally interchangeable across all model years and variants.
The P76's primary reliability focus is managing heat in the ‘hot vee’ configuration, with elevated thermal stress noted in track use. McLaren service data indicates the water pump and related coolant hoses are common service items, while UK DVSA records show no systemic emissions failures. Sustained high-RPM operation and track use make cooling system integrity and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from McLaren technical bulletins (2011-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MCLAREN P76.
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UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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