There are many car enthusiasts who consider the McLaren F1 to be, simply put, the greatest car of all time. There’s no denying that it’s an absolute masterpiece of automotive engineering. It’s also one of the most incredible and exciting driving experiences in the history of the automobile. Almost all of that has to do with one man — Gordon Murray. Murray was the lead designer behind the F1 and almost all of its magnificence was his brainchild. Though, a large part of why the F1 is so widely beloved and so exciting also has to do with BMW, as the F1’s 6.1 liter V12 was designed by BMW M’s master engine builder, Paul Rosche.
Now, all these years later, Murray is at it again, launching his own automotive brand — Gordon Murray Automotive.
It seems like Murray’s new brand will be a very low-volume, probably one model manufacturer, similar to a brand like Koenigsegg or Pagani. However, don’t expect anything less than engineering magnificence, as Murray doesn’t know how to do anything else. So expect ultra lightweight materials and thrilling powertrains. “With our first new car, we will demonstrate a return to the design and engineering principles that have made the McLaren F1 such an icon.”
The only question that remains is whether or not Murray will again look to BMW for engine help. Developing a brand-new engine and powertrain is incredibly difficult and expensive for a small, upstart manufacturer like GMA. In fact, it wouldn’t make any business sense to do so. So Murray is going to have to outsource the engine and BMW actually makes a lot of sense.
Not only is Murray familiar with BMW’s M Division but it’s currently pumping out some great engines. The 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 in the upcoming F90 BMW M5 makes 600 hp, with the potential for much more, and is relatively compact and lightweight. Also, it seems as if BMW M has developed an all-new V8 for the upcoming BMW M8, as we’ve heard it bellow and roar like no BMW engine before it in several spy videos. And if Murray wants to go in a more high-tech, futuristic direction, not many companies have more performance hybrid know-how than BMW. Plus, the BMW/Murray relationship worked so well with the F1, why not try it again?
So it’s possible that BMW and Murray could be teaming up once again. If that’s the case, let’s hope they’re able to build another transcendent performance car that will be talked about for decades to come.
[Source: Car Throttle]