McLaren’s Longtail story continues with the reveal of the new 765LT, a Longtail variant of the 720S boasting improved performance, more downforce and lower weight.

Using McLaren’s familiar twin-turbo 4,0-litre V8, the 765LT pushes out 563 kW at 7 500 r/min and 800 N.m of torque at 5 500 r/min, which the Woking-based firm says results in a 0-100 km/h time of 2,8 seconds, a 0-200 km/h time of 7,2 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h. Optimised transmission gearing for the seven-speed dual-clutch, meanwhile, ostensibly results in 15 percent quicker in-gear acceleration than the 720S.

Thanks to the use of high-performance, lightweight materials throughout the carbon-fibre body, the overall mass of the vehicle has been cut to 1 339 kg (which makes it some 80 kg lighter than the standard 720S). These materials include a titanium exhaust system, F1-grade transmission materials and thinner glass with motorsport-style polycarbonate glazing.

Of course, aerodynamics are a key focus of the new 765LT. The package includes a carbon-fibre front splitter, bumper, floor, side skirts, rear bumper and diffuser. The active rear “Longtail” wing, with a surface area 20 percent greater than the item employed by the 720S, has a minimal effect on the car’s drag co-efficient, according to McLaren. Ultimately, the additions to the body result in a 25 percent increase in downforce compared with the 720S.

The new design, while lighter, is a bit larger than the base car. The nose is longer by 48 mm while the Longtail design stretches the rear out by 9 mm. In addition, the revised suspension setup lowers the car by 5 mm.

The chassis benefits from a stiffer set of springs and dampers with a widened front track and lower front ride-height. Controlling the suspension is the reworked Proactive Chassis Control II suspension software. A set of 10-spoke ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tyres is also included, along with carbon-ceramic discs borrowed from the McLaren Senna.

The cabin is far more track-focused than that of the 720S, adopting a set of racing seats and a centre tunnel finished in carbon-fibre. The floor is likewise finished in exposed carbon-fibre while Alcantara has been used to cover various items. The air-conditioning and audio systems have also been binned for the sake of weight saving, although these items can be put back in at no extra cost.

Just 765 units of the 765LT will be built, with customers also having access to optional MSO Clubsport and Clubsport Pro packages.

Original article from Car