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McLaren Senna

McLaren

McLaren Senna: McLaren's most extreme road-legal car. Track-focused with aggressive aerodynamics, 789 horsepower, and 1,100+
Photo: Alexander Migl / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

McLaren's most extreme road-legal car. Track-focused with aggressive aerodynamics, 789 horsepower, and 1,100+ kg of downforce.

The McLaren Senna is a track-focused road-legal supercar produced from 2018 to 2020. The Senna was named after Ayrton Senna, the legendary Formula One driver who won three world championships with McLaren before his death in 1994. The car was specifically designed for track use with aggressive aerodynamics generating 1,100+ kg of downforce, prioritizing track performance over visual aesthetic. The Senna uses M840T 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 making 789 horsepower. Carbon fiber MonoCage chassis. Active aerodynamics including hydraulically actuated rear wing. Production was limited to 500 cars globally. The Senna has been polarizing visually due to the aerodynamic-focused styling. Some find the design ugly; others appreciate the function-over-form approach. The performance is undeniable; the Senna posted lap times competitive with much more expensive cars. On WhipJury, Senna submissions are rare but always memorable. The aggressive styling and track-focused engineering generate strong voter reactions.

Senna specifications

M840T 4.0L twin-turbo V8, 789 horsepower at 7,250 rpm. Carbon fiber MonoCage III chassis. Curb weight around 2,640 pounds (lighter than 720S). Active aerodynamics. Production: 500 cars total.

Frequently asked questions about McLaren Senna

Why is the Senna so polarizing visually?
The styling prioritizes aerodynamic function over visual aesthetic. Aggressive aerodynamic surfaces, dramatic intake ducts, and unconventional proportions create a polarizing appearance. Some find the design ugly; others appreciate the engineering-focused approach. The function-over-form design is intentional.
How much does a Senna cost?
Original MSRP was around $1 million. Used pricing has appreciated to $1.2-2 million+. Senna LM (a limited 5-car variant) is worth significantly more. The Senna is a recognized blue-chip collector car.
Is the Senna street legal?
Yes, in original specification. The Senna was certified for road use as a road-legal supercar. The street legality was a deliberate decision; the car is designed for track use but maintains road compliance. Many owners do track days regularly with their Sennas.
How fast is the Senna?
0-60 in around 2.8 seconds. Top speed 211 mph. The Senna is not the fastest McLaren in straight-line acceleration, but it has the most aggressive cornering capability and the most extreme aerodynamics. Lap times at most circuits are exceptional.
Why is the Senna named after Ayrton Senna?
Ayrton Senna won three Formula One World Championships with McLaren in 1988, 1990, and 1991 before his death in the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. McLaren chose to name their most extreme road car after Senna in tribute. The naming was approved by Senna family.

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