McLaren resurrects Bruce McLaren’s own 1960s supercar vision with period-perfect M6GT tribute

McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has breathed new life into Bruce McLaren’s long-dormant road-going supercar concept by building the M6GT, a one-off tribute that stays true to the original 1960s blueprints. The project started with a deep dive into the brand’s archives, where MSO uncovered Bruce McLaren’s own drawings and original molds.

The result is a car that isn’t just a modern homage—it’s a meticulously recreated period piece, down to the smallest rivet. The M6GT’s body was formed using those original molds, and even the engine and gearbox were faithfully reproduced to match the late founder’s vision.

The chassis itself comes from a period-built McLaren M6A Can Am race car, reinforcing the car’s racing pedigree. The powertrain is a period-correct small-block V8 with “camel hump” cylinder heads, producing over 400 horsepower—likely derived from the M1B Can Am unit.

The transmission is a manual gearbox with a solid walnut shift knob, while the interior features vintage Jaeger gauges, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a green upholstery that screams 1960s race car. The exterior is all classic McLaren: super-low, mid-engine layout with sweeping front fenders, minimalist headlights and taillights, and a nose so low it could double as a bug catcher.

Even the rivets are period-authentic, installed by an aerospace specialist to ensure historical accuracy. The M6GT’s unique badge, featuring a vintage font and a tiny kiwi bird—a nod to Bruce McLaren’s New Zealand roots—adds the perfect finishing touch.

This isn’t just another hypercar; it’s a rolling tribute to McLaren’s heritage, built exactly as Bruce imagined it decades ago. The M6GT will make its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 9, where tweed-clad enthusiasts and petrolheads alike are sure to lose their minds over this meticulously crafted time capsule.