The automotive world has just been rocked by one of the craziest builds ever. Enter Mad Mac, a McLaren P1 GTR drift hypercar that’s been torn apart, reimagined, and reborn, thanks to the wild genius of Mad Mike Whiddett and the mad scientists at Lanzante. In just 100 days, these legends have turned the impossible into reality, debuting their creation at the iconic Goodwood Festival of Speed. Ready to dive into the madness? Let’s hit the throttle!
Mad Mike and Lanzante: A Match Made in Gearhead Heaven
When it comes to bonkers automotive builds, there couldn’t be a more perfect pairing than Mad Mike and Lanzante. Mad Mike, the New Zealand-born drifter, is renowned for his insane rotary-powered machines that leave jaws on the floor. Lanzante, on the other hand, takes supercars and sports cars to the next level of crazy (remember the 930 TAG Turbo, an F1-powered Porsche? Yeah, that was them). So, when these two forces joined hands, we knew something epic was on the horizon.
The Birth of Mad Mac: From Idea to Insanity
The idea for Mad Mac sprang from the desire to create something utterly unique and completely wild. Taking a McLaren (likely a 650S GT3) and transforming it into the world’s first McLaren P1 GTR drift hypercar was no small feat. But Mad Mike’s MadLab team pulled it off in a mere 100 days. Talk about burning rubber!
Rotary Engine: The Heart of the Beast
Now, let’s talk about the heart of this beast. The original 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8? Gone. In its place, a turbocharged three-rotor billet 20B engine. Why? Because rotary engines scream madness and power. This engine swap wasn’t just a simple plug-and-play job. It required a custom transfer case to fit the X-Trac six-speed sequential transmission, which boasts a massive quad-plate five-inch carbon clutch.
Shifting Gears: From GT3 Paddles to Gaming Style
Mad Mac doesn’t just roar; it’s got style too. The original GT3-style paddles were swapped out for a gaming-style shifter, adding a touch of fun to the fierce. Plus, a hydraulic handbrake was installed to easily initiate those breathtaking drifts. Wider front arches were fitted to accommodate the increased steering angles enabled by a custom rack and control arms, making sure this beast handles like a dream.
Suspension and Control: Stability Meets Power
Keeping this monster stable is crucial, especially when it’s tearing up the track. That’s where the Öhlins suspension comes into play, ensuring everything stays grounded. The Haltech Nexus RS ECU handles the boost from the Garrett GT45 turbo, controlled by twin Turbosmart wastegates. The result? A 1,000-hp peripheral port monster that shatters eardrums through a custom titanium four-inch exhaust.
Rocket Bunny Bodywork: A Feast for the Eyes
Once the mechanical elements were dialed in, it was time for Mad Mac to get a makeover. Enter Rocket Bunny, the masters of widebody kits. They crafted a custom kit that not only enhances the car’s aggressive stance but also ensures it looks as wild as it performs. Complemented by custom wheels from Rotiform and Work, measuring 19×9.5 inches in front and a whopping 20×14 inches at the rear, and wrapped in Toyo rubber, Mad Mac is an absolute stunner.
Shakedown and Testing: Mad Mac Proves Its Mettle
Mad Mike didn’t just build this car to look pretty; it’s built to perform. After the build, Mad Mac underwent several shakedown runs, which you can check out on Mad Mike’s YouTube channel. Suspension geometry, grip levels, power delivery—everything was fine-tuned to perfection. This beast is as happy sliding sideways as it is tearing down a straightaway.
Debut at Goodwood: A Showstopper
Mad Mac made its grand debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it wowed the crowds and stole the show. This build isn’t just about raw power; it’s about pushing boundaries, breaking norms, and redefining what’s possible. And with a two-year world tour planned, Mad Mac is set to leave its tire marks on tracks around the globe.
The Legacy of Mad Mac: Pushing the Limits
Mad Mac is a testament to what happens when creative minds refuse to be bound by convention. For Mad Mike and Lanzante, this build is a celebration of innovation, creativity, and pure automotive passion. It’s a nod to McLaren’s trailblazing spirit and a tribute to the art of drifting.
Rotary Power: A Love Letter to Rotary Engines
If you’re a rotary engine fan, Mad Mac is your new idol. This build showcases the sheer potential and power of rotary engines. The turbocharged three-rotor billet 20B engine is a marvel, delivering 1,000 horsepower and an ear-shattering exhaust note. It’s a reminder that sometimes, to create something truly unique, you have to think outside the (cylinder) box.
The Future of Mad Mac: What’s Next?
With Mad Mac set to embark on a two-year world tour, fans around the globe will get a chance to witness this beast in action. From drift events to car shows, Mad Mac is sure to turn heads and drop jaws. And who knows? This might just be the beginning of a new era of wild, rotary-powered drift builds.
Mad Mike and Lanzante: Masters of Madness
At the heart of Mad Mac’s success is the incredible partnership between Mad Mike and Lanzante. These two powerhouses have proven that when you combine unbridled creativity with engineering excellence, the results are nothing short of spectacular. Mad Mac is a shining example of what can be achieved when you dare to dream big and push the limits.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Drift Hypercar
Mad Mac is a phenomenon. It’s a blend of raw power, innovative engineering, and pure driving joy. From its rotary engine to its Rocket Bunny bodywork, every element of this build is designed to thrill and excite. As Mad Mac embarks on its world tour, it’s set to inspire a new generation of car enthusiasts and drifters. So buckle up, because the ride has only just begun!
