When we saw the first photos of the McLaren X-1, we thought that, even though the car's design is extremely special, in a good way, it certainly won't manage to suit all tastes.
Well, the styling of the McLaren X-1 doesn't have to suit all tastes, as this is not a new "model", but a one-off. The vehicle was created by McLaren Special Operations (MSO) the bespoke projects division of the carmaker and is destined for a customer who, three years ago, requested a car with a classic elegance and a timeless design. The man's identity hasn't been revealed to the public.
It all started with the MP4-12C's carbon monocoque and other technical goodies, such as the twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine.
Building on that, MSO fitted the car with a custom body made from carbon fiber, which made it 7.4 inches (18.8 cm) wider and 4.3 inches (10.9 cm) longer than the MP4-12C. The new body was painted in Piano Black and gifted with exterior details made of nickel-plated machined aluminum, while the car rides on a set of wheels that uses a tinted finish.
The inspiration? Everything classy and retro, from a 1959 Buick Electra and a 1971 Citroen SM, through an Airstream trailer, to the architecture of buildings such as the Guggenheim museum in New York, as well as other elements, such as a black & white photo of Audrey Hepburn.
Climbing aboard, we find a layout that follows that of the MP4-12C, but the cabin now uses Harissa Red Nappa leather, as well as a trimming that gives the impression of using 3D design thanks to the use of titanium weave carbon fiber.
It all started with the MP4-12C's carbon monocoque and other technical goodies, such as the twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine.
Building on that, MSO fitted the car with a custom body made from carbon fiber, which made it 7.4 inches (18.8 cm) wider and 4.3 inches (10.9 cm) longer than the MP4-12C. The new body was painted in Piano Black and gifted with exterior details made of nickel-plated machined aluminum, while the car rides on a set of wheels that uses a tinted finish.
The inspiration? Everything classy and retro, from a 1959 Buick Electra and a 1971 Citroen SM, through an Airstream trailer, to the architecture of buildings such as the Guggenheim museum in New York, as well as other elements, such as a black & white photo of Audrey Hepburn.
Climbing aboard, we find a layout that follows that of the MP4-12C, but the cabin now uses Harissa Red Nappa leather, as well as a trimming that gives the impression of using 3D design thanks to the use of titanium weave carbon fiber.