Cosworth GMA V12: A New Era of Engine Performance

Gordon Murray believes the Cosworth GMA V12 will stand as one of the most iconic engines in automotive history. This ultra-light, compact, naturally aspirated V12, developed by Britain’s Cosworth Engineering to precise specifications, will power the driver-focused, lightweight three-passenger hypercar known as the T.50, designed as a successor to the groundbreaking McLaren F1 that captured attention in the 1990s.

Design and Specifications

Set to make its public debut on August 4, the GMA has already provided extensive details about the extraordinary engine that will drive it. Murray’s vision for the T.50 engine was clear: “To be truly remarkable, an engine needs to have the right character. It must be highly responsive, sound amazing, deliver engaging torque, be free-revving, and naturally aspirated.” For these reasons, the T.50 was destined to feature a V12 engine.

Engine Characteristics

A pivotal aspect of the design was minimizing engine size. Murray drew inspiration from the 3.0-liter V12 found in the legendary Ferrari 250 GTO, along with the 3.5-liter Honda RA121E V12 that powered Ayrton Senna’s McLaren F1 racers. Additionally, the BMW S70/2 V12 from the McLaren F1 road car also influenced the design.

Performance Metrics

The Cosworth GMA engine boasts a displacement of 3.9 liters and a 65-degree vee angle, featuring a remarkably low crank positioned just 3.4 inches from the bottom of the engine. This engine weighs in at just 392 pounds, making it 143 pounds lighter than its predecessor engine from the McLaren F1.

• Power Output: 654 horsepower at 11,500 rpm, with the ability to rev up to 12,100 rpm.
• Torque: Peak torque of 344 lb-ft at 9,000 rpm; provides 245 lb-ft from 2,500 rpm for everyday drivability.
• Responsiveness: Capable of accelerating from idle to 12,100 rpm in just 0.3 seconds, almost three times as responsive as the F1’s V12.

Engine Sound and Experience

Murray emphasized that the GMA engine would be naturally aspirated for a reason: “You can never get a great sound from a turbocharged engine.” The T.50 incorporates a cold-air ram induction intake located above the driver’s head, utilizing carbon fiber to amplify the engine sound within the cabin.

“The T.50 engine sound will be phenomenal,” Murray explains, highlighting how the noise dynamics will change with throttle position, creating an engaging and immersive driving experience.

Engineering Excellence

Unlike other hypercars, the T.50’s engine will function as a semi-structural unit. It will reduce negative factors such as noise and vibration through a complex arrangement of mounts while also supporting the rear suspension. The six-speed transmission is designed for maximum efficiency, featuring a lightweight cast aluminum housing.

With the Cosworth GMA V12 engine, Gordon Murray leverages his extensive experience as an engine designer to craft what he describes as the world’s best, highest-revving, and most aesthetically pleasing engine, making it a dream project realized after years of anticipation.