Lanzante TAG Championship Porsche 911 Engine" srcset="https://hagerty-media-prod.imgix.net/2024/06/IMG_02.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&ixlib=php-3.3.0&max-h=517&max-w=640 600w, https://hagerty-media-prod.imgix.net/2024/06/IMG_02.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&ixlib=php-3.3.0 1536w" /> From 1984 to 1986, McLaren dominated the F1 World Championship, powered by TAG-branded, Porsche-built engines. Now, forty years later, the engineering masterminds at Lanzante are resurrecting three of those legendary engines and installing them into a trio of TAG Championship Porsche 911s.
A Legacy of Innovation
McLaren originally tested the 1.5-liter V-6 turbo engine in the Eighties, but Lanzante has taken this iconic powerplant to new heights. In 2019, the company built just 11 of these masterpieces and now believes it’s time for a few more. With the assistance of Cosworth, the TAG TTE P01 V-6 has been revamped, boosting its power from 503 to a staggering 625 horsepower, and pushing the redline to an ear-piercing 10,250 RPM.
To achieve this, a slew of upgrades has been added, including a new exhaust system, titanium turbochargers, new pistons, conrods, valve springs, and uprated cams. Additionally, it sports a new intake and cooling system. A 993 six-speed gearbox with revised ratios ensures the power is delivered smoothly to the custom 18-inch Dymag magnesium and carbon rear wheels.
Carbon Fiber Marvel
The starting point for this transformation is the iconic 930 Turbo, but almost everything has been upgraded to bring it into the modern era. F1-grade carbon fiber has been used extensively for the body panels, doors, front wings, roof, bumpers, and rear spoiler. The brakes now feature carbon ceramic discs, ensuring stopping power matches the newfound speed.
The interior has been stripped down to save weight, boasting carbon-backed Recaro seats with six-point race harnesses, and a roll cage. Even the electric windows and mirrors have been removed to shed a few extra pounds. A lightweight air conditioning system has been added, but an incredible 950 lbs have still been shaved off compared to the original 930 Turbo.
Honoring the Champions
Each of the three cars is a tribute to McLaren’s winning years and legendary drivers Niki Lauda and Alain Prost. The first example, which will make its grand debut at July’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, pays homage to Prost with a unique livery inspired by his MP4/2B and helmet design.
Click below for more about the thrilling revival of one of motorsport's most iconic powertrains, reborn in the shape of a classic Porsche 930 Turbo.