What engine is used in the McLaren 540C?
4 Answers
The McLaren 540C is equipped with a 3.8T V8 engine, with the engine model being M838TE. The M838TE engine features 8 cylinders arranged in a V-type configuration, with a DOHC valve train. The engine delivers a maximum power output of 397 KW, a maximum horsepower of 540 PS, and a maximum torque of 540 NM. Below are some relevant details about the McLaren 540C: 1. The McLaren 540C adopts a family-oriented design inspired by its elder sibling, the P1. Its iconic curved front end, logo-shaped headlights, butterfly doors, and futuristic rear end all contribute to its striking appearance. Like other sports cars, it is impossible not to turn your head or pause when you see it on the road. 2. The McLaren logo-shaped headlights are highly distinctive, featuring dual LED light sources—LED headlights and LED daytime running lights. The headlight assembly is also blackened, enhancing its sporty appeal. 3. The car features a two-door design, with the doors adorned not just with simple paint but also with a black lacquer finish that extends from the front wheel arches to the rear wheel air intakes, adding significant flair to the side profile. 4. The rear end is finished in black, with willow-leaf-shaped taillights, jet-style exhaust pipes, and a bumper design that together create a highly futuristic and sci-fi aesthetic.
The McLaren 540c is equipped with a 3.8-liter V8 twin-turbocharged engine, delivering around 540 horsepower and 540 Nm of torque. This powerhouse is derived from their M838T series. I've seen the actual car disassembled; the mid-engine layout design allows the engine to directly drive the rear wheels, resulting in exceptionally linear power delivery. The turbo kick-in provides an exhilarating push-back sensation, far beyond what any ordinary small-displacement car can offer. Engineers also fine-tuned the cooling system to ensure stable operation under high temperatures, making acceleration and overtaking effortless on the road. Coupled with a deep and powerful exhaust note, every hard press of the throttle feels like driving a race car. However, fuel consumption is something to watch out for, averaging around 15L in city driving.
What got me most hooked during the test drive of the 540c was its engine response - instant throttle reaction the moment you step on it. The 3.8L V8 twin-turbo design delivers explosive power even at low revs, remaining smooth in city traffic with barely noticeable turbo lag. When chatting with friends about this car, everyone agrees its engine tuning strikes a perfect balance between daily drivability and sportiness - neither too aggressive to control, yet capable of sub-4-second century sprint performance with an exceptionally thrilling exhaust note. But don't forget this is a high-maintenance product requiring regular oil changes to maintain peak condition.
The 540C is powered by McLaren's in-house developed 3.8-liter V8 twin-turbo engine, which is considered the signature powerplant in the Sports Series, delivering precisely 540 horsepower as its name suggests. Its tuning leans towards neutral driving dynamics, making it ideal for urban cruising while still offering exhilarating performance on the track.
