McLaren F1 successor heading for Monaco F1?

Reports have started surfacing on the internet that McLaren will launch its F1 successor at this year's Monaco Grand Prix Formula One race (27 May). It is unclear if it will be a private event for a selected audience or if it will be shown to the masses.

Ever since McLaren showed us the MP4-12C, motoring enthusiasts have wondered when, or if, McLaren will unveil a possible follow-up model to its much-vaunted F1 supercar.

Apparently code named P12, this successor will have big shoes to fill. Not only was the McLaren F1 the fastest accelerating supercar of its time, but it still holds the record for the highest top speed (more than 370 km/h) for a naturally aspirated engine. Even today it will still be able to show most supercars its tailpipes.

To be able to trounce this performance, it is rumoured that the new car will make use of highly tuned version of the 3,8-litre turbocharged V8 engine found in the MP4-12C. Said to develop around 600 kW and with a target weight of less than 1 150 kg, performance should be shattering, to say the least.

Picking this Monaco event is clever move by this Woking (UK) based manufacturer. McLaren will be in a position to show the car to a concentration of some of the richest people in the world, and at the same time people with an interest and passion for fast – and expensive – cars.

Should the car be shown at this event, expect full details and pictures to be released shortly thereafter.