Gordon Murray Automotive, a manufacturer renowned for its exceptionally limited-production vehicles, has once again pushed the boundaries of automotive exclusivity. Following the success of its T.50 and T.33 supercars, each capped at 100 units, the company has unveiled an even more exclusive creation: the Le Mans GTR. This new masterpiece, celebrating the legendary endurance race, will see a production run of merely 24 units, symbolizing each hour of the grueling competition. It stands as a profound homage to the 1995 McLaren F1 GTR's triumph at Le Mans, a vehicle coincidentally also conceived by Gordon Murray himself. The Le Mans GTR, while retaining the V-12 engine and manual gearbox from the T.50, has undergone substantial modifications, transforming it into a machine primarily focused on aerodynamic efficiency and an unparalleled driving connection. Its design language is a deliberate nod to the longtail race cars of the 70s, 80s, and 90s, with performance enhancements extending to its chassis and interior, ensuring an uncompromising yet refined experience.
The Le Mans GTR’s engineering philosophy, though rooted in the existing T.50 platform, diverges significantly in its execution. The core powertrain—a V-12 engine paired with a manual transmission—remains, promising an engaging and visceral driving experience that harks back to a purer era of performance motoring. However, GMA has embarked on an extensive overhaul of virtually every other aspect of the vehicle. A new, purpose-built low-drag body is a prominent feature, drawing direct inspiration from classic longtail prototypes such as the Matra-Simca MS660, Porsche 917, and Alfa Romeo Tipo 33/3. This aesthetic choice is not merely cosmetic; it underpins genuine ground-effect aerodynamics, meticulously crafted through a sophisticated front splitter, sculpted side skirts, a comprehensive full-width rear wing, and an expansive two-channel diffuser. These aerodynamic refinements negate the necessity for the rear-mounted fan found on the T.50, streamlining the car's underbody airflow for optimal downforce and stability.
Further enhancing the vehicle’s track capabilities are larger air vents positioned at the front and strategically placed side-mounted intakes. These additions are crucial for ensuring superior cooling for the high-performance drivetrain, critical during sustained high-speed operation. The GTR also boasts a wider track, accommodating larger Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires that provide enhanced grip and handling precision. Complementing these changes is a significantly stiffer and lighter suspension system, designed to maximize responsiveness and feedback to the driver. Notably, Gordon Murray Automotive has implemented an innovative method for solidly mounting the engine to the chassis. This approach, while typically associated with increased noise and vibration in extreme performance cars, has been engineered to mitigate these issues, offering a more refined experience without compromising the direct connection between the driver and the powertrain. This commitment to both extreme performance and a degree of comfort underscores GMA’s dedication to a holistic automotive experience.
Executive Chairman Gordon Murray himself articulated the vision behind the Le Mans GTR, highlighting the harmonious blend of aerodynamic functionality and aesthetic appeal found in longtail racing machines. He emphasized how the GTR elegantly reinterprets these admired historical racers, integrating cutting-edge contemporary aerodynamics with GMA’s meticulously engineered chassis, engine, and transmission. A particular focus has been placed on the auditory experience, with a specially tuned dual-exit exhaust system delivering a rich and balanced soundtrack. This aural delight is further amplified by a roof-mounted ram air intake, positioned directly above the cabin, creating an immersive sound environment for the driver. Just like the T.50, the Le Mans GTR offers an exhilarating 12,100 rpm redline, promising a thrilling high-revving performance characteristic of naturally aspirated V-12 engines.
Despite its aggressive, track-oriented design and performance enhancements, the Le Mans GTR’s interior has been thoughtfully refined to maintain a surprising degree of livability. Key elements such as the dashboard, switchgear, seat cushioning, and pedal pads have all been revised or replaced with new components, reflecting a commitment to driver comfort and ergonomics even in such an extreme machine. This attention to detail ensures that the GTR, while capable of immense performance, remains an engaging and manageable car for its fortunate owners. Unsurprisingly, all 24 units of the Le Mans GTR have already been allocated, underscoring the immense demand for these rare and meticulously crafted vehicles. While specific pricing details were not disclosed, given the T.50’s price point of $3.5 million, the Le Mans GTR is expected to command an even higher figure. Production of this exclusive supercar is anticipated to commence in 2026, further cementing Gordon Murray Automotive’s reputation for producing automotive masterpieces that blend heritage, innovation, and unparalleled driving purity.