The 1981 season marked a turning point for McLaren as teams pushed chassis and materials development to gain advantages on track and in endurance. That year’s lineup reflects both the end of an older design era and the start of a new one in construction and aerodynamics.
There are 2 1981 McLaren Car Models, ranging from the M29 to the MP4/1. Data are organized by Variant / Chassis,Type,Key specs (engine cc | power hp | weight kg) so you can compare construction, power and weight at a glance — for each model you’ll find below.
What’s the key difference between the M29 and the MP4/1?
The M29 follows McLaren’s earlier chassis approach and setup philosophy, while the MP4/1 introduced McLaren’s first carbon-fibre monocoque, improving stiffness and weight distribution; that structural change affected handling, development potential and how teams set up each car.
Where can I verify chassis numbers and detailed specs?
Authoritative sources include McLaren’s historical archives, period race entry lists, FIA records and specialist books or club registries; the table you’ll find below consolidates Variant / Chassis,Type,Key specs (engine cc | power hp | weight kg) to make cross-referencing quick and reliable.
1981 Mclaren Car Models
| Model | Variant / Chassis | Type | Key specs (engine cc | power hp | weight kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MP4/1 | MP4/1 (chassis 01-06; carbon-fibre monocoque) | Formula 1 car | 3,000 cc | 500 hp | 585 kg |
| M29 | M29 (aluminium monocoque; used as spare/early-season chassis) | Formula 1 car | 3,000 cc | 485 hp | 585 kg |
Images and Descriptions
MP4/1
John Barnard’s groundbreaking MP4/1 introduced McLaren’s carbon-fibre monocoque to F1 in 1981. Raced by McLaren throughout the season, it married a Ford-Cosworth DFV 3.0L engine with improved aerodynamics, marking a major step in chassis technology.
M29
The McLaren M29 served as the team’s conventional aluminium-frame car retained into 1981 as a stopgap while MP4/1 development progressed. Running the Ford-Cosworth 3.0L DFV, it provided reliable if unspectacular results and spare-car duties.
