Is the Gordon Murray S1 LM a Masterpiece or a Missed Opportunity?
When you think of supercars, one name inevitably comes to mind: the McLaren F1. Revered by collectors, car enthusiasts, and engineers alike, the F1 has cemented its legacy since its debut over three decades ago. With its iconic three-seat layout, exhilarating V12 engine, and manual transmission, it set the benchmark for performance and design. Limited to just 106 units, the F1 remains a prized possession, not just for its speed but for its storied history, including a legendary win at Le Mans.
Fast forward to 2025, and the echoes of the F1 are still resonating throughout the automotive world. While many have tried—some more successfully than others—to capture its spirit, perhaps no one has done it quite like Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA). Founded by the very man who designed the F1, GMA has introduced the T.50, a modern successor that pays homage to its predecessor while bringing in fresh updates. Featuring a similar three-seat layout and a howling V12, the T.50 is a testament to Murray’s unwavering commitment to driving purity.
But now, the spotlight shifts to GMA’s latest creation: the GMSV S1 LM. Dubbed the “special one,” this ultra-exclusive model has been commissioned by a single customer with a deep-rooted passion for Gordon’s designs from the 1990s. With only five units being produced, the S1 LM promises enhanced performance and track capability, but it’s also raising eyebrows for its design choices.
Is This Just a McLaren F1 Copycat?
At first glance, the S1 LM’s design seems to be a blatant nod to the F1. While it boasts a host of upgrades and modern touches, many are left wondering if it truly innovates or merely recycles the iconic styling of its predecessor. Critics are quick to label it as “uninspired” and “corny,” with some even questioning its aesthetics. Unlike other retro-styled supercars that have successfully evolved their predecessors’ designs, like the Aston Martin Valour and Lamborghini Countach, the S1 LM appears to be treading familiar ground without making a significant departure from the F1’s silhouette.
Every body panel of the S1 LM is crafted from carbon fiber, and while GMA claims a lower roofline compared to the T.50, the overall aesthetic feels strikingly reminiscent of the F1. The front bumper, for instance, resembles a modern take on the F1 GTR, complete with slim LED headlights that mimic the original’s shape. And while the greenhouse retains a familiar look, there are some intriguing modifications, like the more unique roof scoop and rear window design.
In terms of performance, the S1 LM is no slouch. It houses the same Cosworth-designed V12 engine as the T.50, but this one has been bored out to a robust 4.3 liters, producing over 690 horsepower. That’s enough to place it comfortably between the road-going T.50 and its track-focused sibling. With a higher compression ratio and lightweight internals, along with a bespoke Inconel exhaust system wrapped in 18-karat gold-foil heat shielding, the S1 LM promises an exhilarating driving experience.
The Interior: A Nod to the Past with a Modern Twist
Stepping inside the S1 LM, you’re greeted by a truly unique interior that draws inspiration from fighter jets. The skeletal architecture showcases an abundance of carbon fiber, with new door panels and a distinctive dashboard design featuring pill-shaped air vents and a quilted pattern that stands out. The centerpiece remains the three-seat layout, with the driver positioned centrally—a hallmark of the F1 legacy.
The seats themselves are a blend of function and flair, designed for comfort and support during high-speed driving. The driver’s racing seat, with its intense bolsters and retro sci-fi vibe, is sure to make an impression, while the passenger seats maintain a similar level of enveloping comfort. While one variant boasts a silver quilted leather seat, another features a striking green, white, and red tartan design, paying homage to the racing heritage.
The Verdict: A Beautiful Tribute or a Tired Retread?
As Gordon Murray himself put it, “I love timeless design. I never want us to join the race to make the most outrageous looking supercar at the expense of balance, beauty, and proportion. Look at the result, the car is timeless and beautiful.” But therein lies the crux of the matter. For some, the S1 LM is a brilliant homage to an automotive icon. For others, it’s a missed opportunity to innovate further and create something genuinely new.
With an estimated price tag in the eight-figure range, one has to wonder: if you have the means to own an S1 LM, wouldn’t you rather just buy an original F1? Perhaps the only opinion that truly matters is that of the buyer who commissioned these limited editions. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and for one passionate enthusiast, this creation might just be the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern performance.
