VEHICLE ARCHIVE | 1973 McLaren M16C

1973 McLaren M16C

ENGINE: Turbocharged 2.6-liter Offenhauser inline-4 (original engine)
HORSEPOWER: 780 (est. original engine)
NUMBER BUILT: 6
RACE SERIES: Indianapolis 500/USAC Racing

One of the most successful designs at the Indianapolis 500 in the period, and the second car McLaren developed for the race, the M16 was inspired by the low, wedge-shaped design of the Lotus Type 72 Formula 1 car. Though based on the M15, the M16 incorporated its radiators into pods on either side of the vehicle to accommodate a lower front profile. Continuously improved and adapted to new safety regulations throughout the mid-1970s, the M16’s design was refined through multiple variations. The M16C proved to be the most effective version, achieving the first victory for the McLaren factory team at the Indianapolis 500 in 1974.

COURTESY OF MOUSE MOTORS
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