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F1: Animation comparing the 2010 McLaren to the 2011 MP4-26

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Khatir Soltani
Auto123.com’s graphic artist produced a very interesting comparison between the 2010 McLaren MP4-25 and the 2011 MP4-26 unveiled Friday in Berlin, Germany.

The two images were carefully overlapped, but note that there’s a slight difference between the shooting angles. This animation is nothing scientific, but it helps to understand the basic differences between the two race cars.

The McLaren engineers worked hard in trying to recuperate some of the downforce lost due to the ban of the infamous blown diffuser.


The flat engine cover that enclosed the F-Duct on last year’s MP4-25 has been totally revised.

The front splitter, located under the knees of the drivers, will play a crucial role this season in correctly directing the flow of air underneath the car.

The side pods of the MP4-26 are more curvaceous than last year, and they are “L” shaped to increase the amount of air that feeds the rear wing. This is very important with this year’s moveable flap destined to facilitate overtaking.

The 2011 car sports two unique air boxes located on top of the engine cover. There’s still the traditional air box feeding the engine, which is located above the drivers’ helmet. These two additional air boxes could be used to direct a distinct flow of air to the top portion of the rear diffuser.

Will this new McLaren be faster than the old one? We’ll get the answer next week as testing resume at Circuito Jerez de la Frontera in Spain.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada