The 1982 M81 McLaren Mustang DSO, a rare and enigmatic vehicle, is a testament to automotive passion and the pursuit of performance. This particular model, owned by Derek Whitacre, is a dealer special order, meticulously tuned to deliver 400 horsepower and handle like a modern sports car.
Whitacre’s fascination with this car began in 1980 when he first saw it on a magazine cover, sparking a seven year quest to own a piece of automotive history. Contrary to many online myths, the M81 McLaren Mustang has a unique and well-documented origin story.
It all started with a prototype built in the early 1980s, painted in McLaren’s iconic Papaya Orange with silver bumpers. Ford, eager to re-enter themotorsports world, enlisted the help of Gary Kohs, who collaborated with artist Harry Whikes and designer Todd Gerstenberger to conceptualize the car.
To bring this vision to life, they turned to McLaren Engine of Livonia, Michigan, to develop the powerful engine that would propel this extraordinary vehicle. The tale of the McLaren Ford Mustang begins in the 1980s when Ron Fournier and Bob Fehan crafted a steel prototype, a vision of a high-performance Mustang.
Ford, impressed by the concept, greenlit a limited run of 250 units powered by a 2.3-liter twin-turbo engine, a marvel of engineering from McLaren Engine. However, the ambitious project was halted due to high costs and production complexities. Yet, the legacy of this groundbreaking car lived on.
A dealer, fascinated by the prototype’s potential, commissioned a unique Mustang. This special order featured a potent 5.7-liter V8 engine mated to a Tremec T56 manual transmission, delivering a thrilling 400 horsepower. The focus was on exhilarating performance and precise handling, a far cry from the original 150 horsepower.
Today, this rare McLaren Ford Mustang, showcased by Autotopia LA, continues to turn heads. Its striking red paint and 18-inch Rotiform wheels paired with 35-inch Toyo tires exude an aggressive stance. The interior, a testament to meticulous restoration, boasts reupholstered Recaro seats, new door panels, and a repainted dashboard.
The 1980s-era lever-operated horn and 160 mph speedometer add to the car’s nostalgic charm. Despite its vintage roots, this Mustang delivers a modern driving experience, offering exhilarating speed, precise steering, and impressive handling that puts a smile on every driver’s face.
