The 650S Can-Am is based on the British supercar company's flagship convertible and will be limited to just 50 examples worldwide.
The Canadian American Challenge Cup, or Can-Am for short, was one of the most exciting and challenging race series of its time. From its inception in 1966, it drew world famous drivers to its ranks and was the series that introduced the McLaren name to the North American public.
Therefore, McLaren has decided it's only fitting to mark the race series' upcoming 50th birthday and its role in the company's stature with a modern-day interpretation of its Can-Am racer, the 650S Can-Am, which will be specially built by its bespoke division.
"Can-Am racing is a major part of McLaren heritage, and this latest model from McLaren Special Operations pays homage to the cars and the racers who played a key role in making the championship such a spectacle during the 1960s and 70s. The championship was a true test of the engineering ability, driving talent and bravery of Bruce and his teammates, which led them to secure five consecutive championships," said Paul Mackenzie, Executive Director of McLaren Special Operations.
The 650S Can-Am is the first McLaren to feature a retractable carbon fiber roof. It also has a set of specially developed forged alloys that cover carbon ceramic brakes. Other features that will ensure the car stands out from a production 650S include louvered front wings for improving downforce and a set of stainless steel exhaust pipes.
Inside the sports seats are wrapped in leather and Alcantara, and each example will carry an individually numbered plaque on the driver's door.
"The 650S Can-Am is a modern-day interpretation with a mixture of functional design features taken from the all-conquering models, combined with the lightest and most pioneering materials available, as was the case with the race cars. The extensive use of lightweight visual carbon fibre, including for the retractable hard top, adds to car's dramatic appearance and with the roof down, drivers are treated to a stirring V8 soundtrack," said Mackenzie.
That 3.8-litre V8 is the only thing that is carried over completely from the standard 650S without an upgrade, but that's no bad thing. Capable of outputting 641bhp, the car will accelerate from a standstill to 100km/h in three seconds and on to a top speed of 329km/h.
Deliveries will start next spring, exactly 50 years on from the first Can-Am race at Mont Tremblant, Canada and prices will start at £255,850 (Roughly US$392,000).
