McLaren M2B

McLaren M2B
The M2B on display at the Donington Grand Prix Collection
CategoryFormula One
ConstructorBruce McLaren Motor Racing
Designer(s)Robin Herd
SuccessorM4B
Technical specifications
ChassisMallite-aluminium alloy monocoque, with steel bulkheads
Suspension (front)Upper radius arm and lower wishbone, with rocker-arm operated, inboard coilover spring/dampers
Suspension (rear)Upper transverse link and radius arm with reversed lower wishbone. Outboard coilover spring/dampers
EngineFord 406 3.0 litre V8, Naturally aspirated, mid-mounted
Serenissima M166 3.0 litre V8, Naturally aspirated, mid-mounted Mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive
TransmissionZF 4- and 5-speed manual transaxle
Power300–315 hp (224–235 kW) @ 9,600 rpm[1]
221 lb⋅ft (300 N⋅m) torque
Weight535 kg (1,179 lb)
TyresFirestone
Competition history
Notable entrantsBruce McLaren Motor Racing
Notable driversNew Zealand Bruce McLaren
Debut1966 Monaco Grand Prix
Last event1966 Mexican Grand Prix
RacesWinsPolesF/Laps
6000
Constructors' Championships0
Drivers' Championships0

The McLaren M2B was the McLaren team's first Formula One racing car, used during the 1966 season. It was conceived in 1965 and preceded by the M2A development car. Designed by Robin Herd, the innovative but problematic Mallite material was used in its construction. The car was powered by Ford and Serenissima engines but both lacked power and suffered from reliability issues.

Driven by team founder Bruce McLaren, the M2B had a short Grand Prix career, entering six races and starting only four. It scored the team's first point at the British Grand Prix and two more points at the United States Grand Prix.

  1. ^ "Engine Ford • STATS F1".