McLaren 788HS Bids Farewell to Legendary V8 with 788 Horsepower

McLaren is closing one of the most significant chapters in its supercar history with the introduction of the all-new 788HS model. More than just a more powerful version of the 750S, this vehicle marks the final appearance of a lineage that began with the 720S and progressed through the 765LT.

The M840T Legacy

The new model wears the 'HS' badge, which stands for 'High Sport,' a designation McLaren reserves for an extremely limited number of its most exclusive cars. Previously, this badge only appeared on the MP4-12C HS and the MSO HS. Under the rear hood, the British manufacturer has placed an upgraded version of its famous M840T engine – a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 – producing 788 metric horsepower and 800 Nm of torque.

Weight-Dominated Performance

This power becomes even more impressive when compared to the car's dry weight, which is just 1,265 kilograms. The 788HS delivers a power-to-weight ratio of 623 horsepower per ton, the highest among the series that includes the 720S, 765LT, and 750S. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds and needs only 7 seconds to reach 200 km/h, before pushing on to a top speed of 330 km/h.

Comprehensive Chassis and Aerodynamics

McLaren didn't stop at boosting engine power; the car features a Proactive Chassis Control III hydraulic suspension system with sharper settings, and the front ride height has been lowered by 5 mm compared to the 750S, improving response and stability at high speeds. The company has also completely redesigned the airflow around the body using a carbon fiber aerodynamic package. This includes a new front splitter, an S-Duct air intake, an active rear wing, and a rear diffuser inspired by Formula 1 technology.

These modifications increase downforce by 10% compared to the 765LT, enhancing grip on the track, especially during fast corners and hard braking. The 788HS also uses carbon-ceramic brakes derived from the McLaren Senna, lightweight wheels with a center-lock system used for the first time in this family, and a titanium quad-exit exhaust system developed to give the engine a sharper sound. Through the McLaren Special Operations division, the company will offer clients the ability to customize their cars with exclusive finishes and materials, representing the final touches on this extraordinary engineering legacy.