McLaren M26

McLaren M26
CategoryFormula One
ConstructorMcLaren Racing
Designer(s)Gordon Coppuck
PredecessorM23
SuccessorM28
Technical specifications
ChassisAluminium monocoque.
Suspension (front)Double wishbone, with inboard coilover shock absorbers.
Suspension (rear)Double wishbone.
Axle trackF: 65 in (165 cm)
R: 64 in (163 cm)
Wheelbase108 in (274 cm)
EngineFord-Cosworth DFV 2,993 cc (182.6 cu in) 90° V8, naturally aspirated, mid-mounted.
TransmissionHewland DG400 6-speed manual gearbox.
Weight585 kg (1,290 lb)
FuelTexaco
TyresGoodyear
Competition history
Notable entrantsMarlboro Team McLaren
Notable drivers Jochen Mass
James Hunt
Patrick Tambay
Bruno Giacomelli
Debut1976 Dutch Grand Prix
RacesWinsPolesF/Laps
31331
n.b. Unless otherwise stated, all data refer to
Formula One World Championship Grands Prix only.

The McLaren M26 was a Formula One racing car designed by Gordon Coppuck for the McLaren team, to replace the aging McLaren M23 model. The car was designed to be a lighter and lower car than its predecessor, with a smaller frontal area and narrower monocoque. Coppuck began design work in early 1976, with a view to introducing the car in the mid season.