In 1981, McLaren introduced the MP4/1, the world’s first carbon fibre Formula 1 car. The introduction of the carbon-fibre MP4 changed the face not only of racing but of supercar design to follow. Since then McLaren hasn’t made a race or road car that hasn’t been based around a carbon monocoque chassis.
John Barnard, the car’s designer, speaks to McLaren Automotive about the story of the MP4/1.
Source: McLaren Automotive