The McLaren F1 GTR Longtail was a Le Mans race car based off the road-going McLaren F1. Only 10 were ever built including the prototype, with it winning its debut Le Mans race. The F1 GTRs huge success in racing therefore means motorsport heritage is tightly linked with the Longtail name, so it has only been delegated to the highest performing road-going McLarens. The revival began with the 675LT which was the higher performing version of the 650S, then the 600LT which improves on the 570S and now, we have the 765LT.

Building on the already ground-breaking 720S, the 765LT employs the same formula as the 675 and 600 Longtails. Power is raised from 710bhp of the 720S to 755bhp (765ps) of the 765LT. Weight saving, as always, is key for the Longtails. In this case, 80kg has been shaved from the 720S, which means the 765LT sits at 1,339kg in its lightest spec. A tailored suspension setup, polycarbonate glass rear-window, lighter wheels and an abundance of carbon fibre all contribute to the eye-watering performance of the newest Longtail in terms of pin-point handling and weight saving measures. 0-62mph is dealt with in a blistering 2.8 seconds, with a maximum speed of 205mph. A redesigned titanium exhaust system has been manufactured for the 765LT, where it not only serves for lightweight performance but also adds to the menacing looks of the rear with 4 separate exhaust tips, which allows the twin-scroll twin turbo V8 engine to breathe, creating a very distinctive sound.

Features from the Senna have been brought over to cope with the increase in power. The brake calipers, forged pistons and stronger head gasket have been borrowed from the Senna with upgraded oil and fuelling systems, ensuring the 765LTs extreme capabilities are supported with reliability and safety.

The 720S already stands out for all the right reasons. The 765LT takes these looks to the extreme with aerodynamically sculpted body panels and intakes, all maximising efficiency, reducing the drag coefficient whilst looking similar to an object from another planet. A more defined front splitter scoops and channels air to where the car most needs it. Every curve, aero flick and channel not only serves to benefit the cars looks, but also has the very important function of reducing turbulence and to dissipate heat quickly.

This latest addition to the Longtail department is one that successfully completes the important job of keeping the name alive by delivering an experience that like other Longtails, is unique and a step above expectations. This is a car that must be driven in order to fully appreciate the hours of engineering that McLaren have applied to the 765LT. We see this car only building on the Longtails successful heritage.