SpeedSUVs.com — Gordon Murray Special Vehicles has officially unveiled its third supercar, the S1, marking another significant milestone for the engineering visionary behind the iconic McLaren F1. While the firm has previously gained recognition for the T.50 and the T.33, the introduction of the S1 represents a pivot toward creative freedom through ultra-low production projects. Based on the mechanical foundation of the S1 LM, this new model is specifically designed for touring rather than pure track performance, offering a unique blend of high-end engineering and road-going usability.
Refining the Design for Touring
The development of the S1 began with a straightforward concept: removing the extreme aerodynamic elements of the S1 LM, such as the prominent fixed rear wing, front splitter, and deep side skirts. What started as a simple aesthetic exercise quickly evolved into a comprehensive redesign. According to Gordon Murray, nearly every body panel on the S1 is entirely new, with the roof being the only component retained from the S1 LM. This transformation was driven by the desire to create a vehicle that is more approachable and visually balanced for road use.
Dario Franchitti, who collaborates closely with the development team, emphasizes the distinction between the two models. While the S1 LM serves as a machine for short, intense track sessions, the S1 is engineered for long-distance travel. To achieve this, the team implemented a more compliant suspension setup and increased the ride height by approximately 10 millimeters, ensuring the car can handle varied road conditions without compromising its sporting character.
Comfort and Cabin Enhancements
Inside, the S1 maintains the signature center-driving position and three-seat layout that has become a hallmark of Murray’s designs. However, significant modifications have been made to prioritize driver and passenger comfort. The seats feature thicker padding, and additional sound insulation has been integrated throughout the cabin to mitigate noise. Furthermore, the introduction of new engine mounts helps dampen vibrations, creating a more refined atmosphere for extended journeys.
One of the most practical changes involves the vehicle’s entry and exit points. The S1 is equipped with dihedral doors and roll-down windows, a departure from the fixed Lexan windows found on the LM version. These design choices illustrate the commitment to making a high-performance machine more suitable for daily or grand touring applications, such as a morning drive from London to the scenic roads of Scotland.
Mechanical Mastery of the V12
At the heart of the S1 lies a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V-12 engine, a masterpiece of modern engineering. It delivers 681 horsepower and is designed to rev up to 12,100 rpm, with a fuel cut-off at 12,400 rpm. The engine features advanced internal components, including titanium valves, connecting rods, and lightweight pistons with a silicon carbide coating. Despite its high-revving nature, the engine has been tuned to provide exceptional low-down torque, with 80 percent of its peak torque available at just 2,500 rpm.
The power is managed through a six-speed manual transmission, maintaining the tactile and engaging driving experience that enthusiasts associate with Gordon Murray’s work. Despite the inclusion of extra comfort features, the vehicle remains exceptionally lightweight, utilizing carbon fiber body panels to ensure it remains lighter than the T.50.
Production and Market Context
The production run of the S1 is limited to 64 units. While this may seem high for a specialized vehicle, the demand was significant enough to necessitate an increase from the initial plan of 15 to 20 units. All 64 cars have already been allocated to loyal brand supporters. While official pricing remains undisclosed, the recent sale of an S1 LM at auction for over $20 million provides a glimpse into the high valuation of these bespoke machines.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Exceptional naturally aspirated V12 performance, refined interior for touring, engaging manual transmission, and unique, lightweight carbon fiber construction.
- Cons: Extremely limited availability, potential high cost, and lack of modern automated driver assistance systems that some touring buyers might expect.
Ultimately, the S1 represents the successful realization of Gordon Murray’s vision for a more touring-focused hypercar. By stripping away aggressive track aero and focusing on long-distance comfort without sacrificing the soul of a high-revving V12, the firm has created a machine that bridges the gap between raw track performance and road-going elegance. For the 64 owners, it offers a rare opportunity to experience legendary engineering in a package designed for the joy of the drive itself.
