Legendary car designer Gordon Murray has unveiled his latest supercar, the S1, which draws inspiration from the iconic McLaren F1 he designed approximately 35 years ago. The S1 is positioned as a touring-focused evolution of the S1 LM platform, offering a distinct character and purpose from its race-inspired predecessor.
A key feature of the S1, echoing the McLaren F1, is its manual gearbox. Power comes from a bespoke 4.2-liter naturally aspirated Cosworth V12 engine producing up to 681 horsepower. Unlike many contemporary supercars, the S1 emphasizes a connection to the driving experience through its naturally aspirated engine and manual transmission.
The S1 shares design DNA with the S1 LM, but every body panel has been redesigned. Visually, it adopts a cleaner silhouette by removing the S1 LM's large rear wing, front splitter, and deep side skirts, opting for proportions reminiscent of classic cars. An active rear aerodynamic system is integrated into the bodywork to enhance grip and stability.
Weight reduction remains a central focus, with the S1's body constructed from ultra-lightweight carbon fiber and lightweight suspension components. The car features a 10mm increase in ride height compared to the S1 LM, and its power steering can be adjusted for either relaxed cruising or a more direct connection.
Subtle design cues include daytime running lamps integrated into the front clusters and auxiliary main-beam lights within the front air intake, referencing Murray's 1992 Monaco show car design. The A-pillar-mounted mirrors incorporate a rear-view camera system.
Interior and Exclusivity
The S1's engine bay is designed to showcase the V12 engine, complemented by a polished Inconel exhaust and a 24-carat gold-plated heat shield. The three-seat interior retains Murray's signature central driving position but offers a more refined and luxurious cockpit than the S1 LM, prioritizing touring comfort.
Buyers can expect premium materials, bespoke fabrics, tailored trims, enhanced acoustic isolation, updated infotainment screens, and a custom audio system. The S1 is part of an ultra-exclusive production run, with only 64 units to be produced worldwide.
Gordon Murray Special Vehicles (GMSV) has confirmed that the entire production run has already sold out. While pricing has not been disclosed, it is anticipated to be less than the S1 LM, which reportedly sold for over $20 million at auction in 2025. The S1 represents a more refined and usable iteration of Murray's driver-focused supercar philosophy.