Fantasy Junction

Description

1972 McLaren M8FP
s/n 11-72
Papaya with Aluminum Interior

The Canadian American Challenge Cup series was a unique experiment in almost complete freedom of design. So often in motorsports strict limitations imposed, but in the case of Can Am, just about anything went. Engines could be any displacement or design, with forced induction, outlandish aerodynamic aids, and even four wheel drive permitted. The resulting cars were very wild, and very fast, faster than even the contemporary Formula One cars, in fact.

McLaren`s own efforts were very successful in the series, amassing more victories than any other manufacturer (43) by the time the series ended in 1974. Their tremendous success began with their first monocoque car, the M6A of 1967. This car evolved into the M8A with the addition of a big block motor for 1968, and the M8B and M8D with further refinements for 1969 and 1970 respectively. The M8F was the ultimate development (aside from a pair of M20`s which were factory cars only and not available to the public) of McLaren`s successful Can Am cars, and featured a lengthened and strengthened chassis, 17-inch wide rear wheels, and revised aerodynamics. The intake stacks were staggered to smooth out the power delivery, and the combined effect of the 1520 pound curb weight and 8.3 liter engine were nothing short of spectacular, earning the moniker of `the ultimate laxative` as coined by the folks at Trojan Cars. Despite the massive displacement, the engine redlined at 7000 rpm, a remarkable feat for an engine with `pistons like flower pots` and `valves like umbrellas`, as characterized by Autosport Magazine.

According to Charles Agg, this particular car was built as a display car and was not raced in period, but was displayed in the Trojan museum. It was campaigned in the United Kingdom for many years in the Super Sports Cup, and then purchased by an owner in the United States, who used the car on a number of American tracks where the races were originally run, including Watkins Glen and Road America. While at Road America in 2006, the car was involved in a low speed accident while being driven on the street in the annual parade drive from the track to the town of Elkhart Lake itself. The car was expertly repaired by Northdown Racing and there is a photo album of the process included with the car. Part of this work included a complete aluminum monocoque by Harold Drinkwater. Prior to the accident, almost $70,000 had been spent on mechanical work and preparation, and at the present, the car has zero hours on both the motor and transmission. The engine tune is reported to be mild (for a wider torque band), if such a term can be used for an aluminum 8.3 liter V8. The car has FIA papers, and is now ready to be enjoyed.

It is in excellent cosmetic condition with no wear to the paint since it has not been used since being repainted. The period graphics have been faithfully replicated and the aluminum monocoque is excellent, having been recently polished so that it shines. The remainder of the chassis and mechanical components are in excellent order as well, displaying very fine historic race car cosmetics, as well as some very remarkable engineering.

This car is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire one of the finest cars from a genuinely historic time. Never before or since have drivers, designers, or enthusiasts had such a free hand to really explore the potential of the automobile, and these cars truly do represent a heroic and unrepeatable time period. This particular car, with its recent and thorough preparation, excellent cosmetic condition, importance, and rarity, is an extremely attractive way to pay homage to and recapture this important and exciting period.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608