1966 was a pivotal year as McLaren transitioned from small-run sports prototypes into purpose-built single-seaters, testing ideas that would shape its racing identity. The models from that season reflect experimental chassis layouts and a handful of notable drivers who campaigned them across regional and international events.
There are 3 1966 McLaren Car Models, ranging from the M1A to the M2B. Data is organized as Variant / chassis,Engine (cc),Notable races/drivers so you can quickly compare chassis numbers, displacement figures and key race appearances—you’ll find below.
How do the M1A and M2B differ in design and racing use?
The M1A was built as a sports-prototype/Can-Am–style car with a focus on larger displacement and endurance-style events, while the M2B was McLaren’s 1966 single-seater intended for Formula racing with a different chassis layout and tuning. Expect the M1A entries to emphasize engine capacity and sports races, and the M2B to show single-seater setups and F1/Formula outings.
How reliable are the chassis, engine and race details provided here?
Specs and race entries come from period records and chassis registries but can vary due to restorations, engine swaps, or incomplete documentation; use the listed Variant / chassis,Engine (cc),Notable races/drivers as a starting point and cross-check with primary sources or official registries for restoration or ownership decisions.
1966 Mclaren Car Models
| Model | Variant / chassis | Engine (cc) | Notable races/drivers |
|---|---|---|---|
| M2B | M2B (works chassis M2B/1) | BRM V8, 3,000 cc | 1966 Formula One season; Bruce McLaren |
| M1B | M1B (works chassis various) | Chevrolet small-block V8, 4,942 cc | 1966 Can-Am and sports races; Bruce McLaren, Denny Hulme |
| M1A | M1A (earlier works chassis; occasionally campaigned) | Chevrolet small-block V8, 4,942 cc | Occasional 1966 sports races and tests; Bruce McLaren |
Images and Descriptions
M2B
The McLaren M2B was Bruce McLaren’s first self-built Formula 1 car, debuting in 1966. It proved McLaren could build and contest F1 machinery, appearing in selected 1966 Grands Prix and driven mainly by Bruce McLaren.
M1B
The M1B was McLaren’s early sports-racing car used heavily in 1966 Can-Am and international sports events. Lightweight, Chevrolet-powered, and campaigned by Bruce McLaren and teammates such as Denny Hulme, it helped establish McLaren as a sports-prototype force.
M1A
The M1A preceded the M1B and remained in McLaren works service through occasional 1966 sports races and tests. It used a Chevrolet small-block V8 and offered a proven chassis for the team’s early North American campaigns.
