Here’s the Top Gear video:
I’m a McLaren F1 fan, as many are. As much as how this car looks good and probably better than the original due to its improved refinement, the sentiment that was attached to the original car cannot be replaced. This is like a good reboot of a classic movie, but it will never create the same level of impact that the original did given the era and context.
That said, while I was watching this video, I cannot avoid thinking if this project involved the original McLaren F1’s designer Peter Stevens, because of the obvious likeness of the aesthetic. If Mr. Stevens was not involved, I’d think there’s a bit of bitter taste… I don’t really know. I understand that designers don’t usually get to own the IP to their works, but their clients/employers to. What would McLaren think? Perhaps they’ve already cleared this design and given permission? Or perhaps by law this design is enough of a departure from the original that there’s no chance of infringement?
Either way, there have been way too many of these “revisits” of classics that drives my curiosity on IP rights.
Car wise, I think this is a sweet dream come true for Mr. Murray, to build a perfect McLaren F1 decades later with new tech and talents, as well as now being in full control over the decisions. It’s a dream project for any engineer or designer.
Lastly, Gordan Murray is the name that most people think of when the subject of McLaren F1 is brought up. The man who brought us the “Ultimate Road Car”. But few think about the man who gave us the first impression of the car that many fall in love with.
I’m sure some very wealthy collector will love putting it in his warehouse with 40-50 other oil burners.
