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Official McLaren press release from February 1991:
PRESS RELEASE
(For immediate Release)
New McLaren Sports Car to be Powered by BMW
In March 1989, McLaren Cars announced their plans for the limited annual production of a high performance road car. Design and development commenced in January 1990 and since then, alongside extensive aerodynamic testing in the Grand Prix team’s rolling road wind tunnel, considerable development work has been carried out to integrate the new car’s engine into the three and a half year programme.
Today, McLaren Cars are pleased to announce that this specially commissioned engine has been designed and developed by BMW Motorsport GmbH.
The exclusive, all new, purpose-built 6 litre aluminium V12 engine has already surpassed performance parameters agreed between BMW Motorsport and McLaren in establishing the design concept. With the performance criteria met, the 48 valve quad- cam engine is now entering its pre-production development programme. It is designed to exceed the most stringent emission control regulations in force in 1993 when production of the car is due to commence.
The engine’s outstanding levels of performance, fuel efficiency and driveability will complement the design philosophy which has been applied to driver controls and vehicle dynamics, aimed at creating the most satisfying driver’s car possible.
As a reflection of McLaren’s motor racing heritage, and the inherently high standards of engineering involved, the new car will be designated the McLaren “F1”.
Issued by McLaren Cars
15 February 1991
5538/150291