McLaren MP4-17D

Active: 2003
Team: McLaren International Ltd

At McLaren they started two projects during the winter. One lead by Neil Oatley was to further develop the MP4 -17 to drive during the first 5 races (or more, as the new car might be introduced in Canada). Another under the lead of Newey was the design of the new car, where all McLaren hopes lays on. The new MP4-18 however never really came in action during a race, as it appeared in tests that the brand new car was faster, but far from reliable. The chassis failed a crash test twice, and suffered severe heating problems in the back. Therefore, the MP4-18 will be used as the base of the 2004 contender, while the whole 2003 season was completed with an MP4-17D

Specifications

Chassis: McLaren moulded carbon fibre/aluminium honeycomb composite incorporating front and side impact structures. Contains integral safety fuel cell
Front Suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a double wishbone arrangement
Rear Suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a double wishbone arrangement
Electronics: TAG Electronic Systems control units incorporating electronics for chassis engine and data acquisition. TAG Electronic Systems also supplies the electronic dash board, ignition coils, alternator voltage control, sensors, data analysis and telemetry systems
Bodywork: Construction: One-piece sidepod and engine cover. Separate floor section, structural nose with integral front wing
Dampers: Penske/McLaren
Tyres: Michelin
Race Wheels: Enkei
Fuel: Mobil Unleaded
Lubricants: Mobil 1 products
Adhesives: Loctite
Radios: Kenwood