Gulf McLaren Elva is a retro-modern speed racer
McLaren has unveiled a special Gulf Oil-liveried Elva supercar at Goodwood SpeedWeek.
It’s a well-known fact that almost any car looks better in Gulf’s trademark orange and blue colors, but the Elva really does look awesome. Styled like a 21st century take on the Mach 5 from Japan’s favorite motor manga Speed Racer, the two-seater, exposed Ultimate Series McLaren appears even more racy with Gulf logos and paintwork. The Elva has been built by McLaren Special Operations and follows a Gulf-themed edition of the Le Mans Senna GTR.
The Elva is powered by an 815-horsepower version of the company’s tried-and-tested twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V-8. Its doorless, glassless design means driver and passenger will have to hop over the high scuttle to get in. However, once settled inside McLaren promises that its Active Air Management System creates a virtual canopy over the cockpit. Nonetheless, this isn’t a car to drive without a helmet.
The Elva is already one of the most exclusive McLarens ever made, with just 149 examples due to be built. Adding this glorious Gulf livery can only make it more collectible.