McLaren recently unveiled the JC96, a limited-production variant of its 750S supercar, crafted to commemorate the brand's historic triumph in the 1996 All-Japan Grand Touring Car Championship. This exclusive model celebrates the McLaren F1 GTR's victory in the Driver's Championship almost three decades ago.
The JC96 is limited to just 61 units, exclusively for the Japanese market, each boasting a distinctive 'Tiger Stripe' exterior livery that echoes the original F1 GTR. Beyond the striking paintwork, the car features bespoke interior elements and ultra-lightweight 15-spoke forged alloy wheels, all inspired by its racing predecessor. Exterior details include unique accents on the front splitter, rear wing, and door mirror casings. Customers can select from various colors like Memphis Red, Titanium Silver, Ice White, and Graphite Grey, with additional personalization available through McLaren's bespoke paint program. The design is completed with gloss black roof and rear diffuser elements, and gold brake calipers adorned with a red McLaren logo. Inside, an Alcantara-clad cabin is accented with embroidered 'JC96' branding on the headrests and gold commemorative plaques, including on the pedals, celebrating the championship win.
Available as both a coupe and a Spider, the JC96 offers an optional Special Operations High Downforce Kit for the open-top version, a first for this model. This kit enhances aerodynamics with a redesigned front bumper, a larger splitter, an active rear spoiler, and a louvred under-wing panel, resulting in a 10 percent increase in downforce. Mechanically, the JC96 retains the formidable twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine, delivering 740 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, ensuring a top speed of 206 miles per hour. While an exact release timeline remains unconfirmed, it's anticipated that deliveries will commence in 2026, aligning with the tribute to McLaren's 1996 racing season.
This special edition McLaren JC96 is more than just a high-performance vehicle; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of McLaren's racing prowess and its deep respect for motorsports history. By blending cutting-edge engineering with nostalgic design cues, McLaren reminds us that true innovation often honors its roots while striving for future excellence. The dedication to crafting such a unique tribute underscores the passion and precision that define the brand, inspiring enthusiasts and celebrating the pursuit of automotive perfection.