We have seen more than a few extraordinary builds when it comes to drift cars, but the latest project from renowned driver Mad Mike Whiddett and engineering firm Lazante is a serious contestant for the top spot. The “MadMac” is based on a McLaren P1 GTR that will undergo the “full drift-spec treatment” just in time for the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024.
The first photos of the McLaren P1 GTR donor car were taken after it left Lazante’s UK workshop heading to Mad Mike Whiddett’s lab in New Zealand for the final modifications. The drift-focused hypercar looks even wilder than stock thanks to the wider fenders and the oversized canards on the front bumper. These are made of carbon fiber, matching the pronounced splitter, the engine cover, and the massive rear wing. It is safe to assume that the suspension and chassis setup will be overhauled, making it suitable for its new role.
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According to Dean Lazante, the idea for the project came up when Mad Mike visited their Goodwood stand last year prompting them to “explore what was possible”. The drifting expert said: “Lanzante has a reputation for creating some incredible cars. Being a proud Kiwi, I’m inspired to push this McLaren project to the absolute limit and then take it around the world… sideways!”
Lazante has plenty of experience with the McLaren P1, having converted several track-only GTR units to street-legal, and creating the gorgeous P1 Spider. On the other hand, Mad Mike Whiddett is known for his crazy builds including the Lamborghini Huracan “Nimbul”, the 5-rotor Mazda “787D”, the RWD-converted Mazda3, and many other uniquely modified examples.
We will learn more about the MadMac in the coming weeks as the development nears its completion. Following its forthcoming debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July, the unique McLaren P1 GTR drift car will participate in other events, curated by the O’Gara Coach luxury group which is based in Beverly Hills, California.
