The McLaren 570S GT4 is McLaren’s first dedicated customer racing machine for the GT4 category, and in iRacing it delivers a sharp, agile, and rewarding experience. Released in the 2017 Season 3 build (June 2017), the 570S GT4 brought mid-engine handling and British engineering flair to the sim’s GT4 roster.
Powered by a 3.8L twin-turbocharged V8 producing around 430 horsepower, the car pairs its turbocharged muscle with aerodynamic refinements and a lightweight chassis. The result is a GT4 entry that is nimble and responsive but requires precision and control to maximize performance.
Performance & Specs
- Engine: 3.8L twin-turbocharged V8
- Horsepower: ~430 hp (Balance of Performance dependent)
- Transmission: 6-speed sequential paddle-shift
- Layout: Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
- Weight: ~1,400 kg (BoP dependent)
- Top Speed: ~155–160 mph depending on track and setup
- Aero Package: GT4 splitter, diffuser, and adjustable rear wing
Handling Characteristics
The 570S GT4 is best known for its agility, but this sharpness comes with challenges.
- Cornering: Mid-engine balance allows quick rotation, especially in tight corners.
- Braking: Stable under light inputs, but twitchy if braking aggressively or trailing too deep into corners.
- Throttle: Twin-turbo power provides strong acceleration, but aggressive throttle stabs risk rear-end snap.
- Consistency: Requires discipline — smooth inputs are rewarded with pace, while sloppy driving can quickly overheat tires.
Difficulty Level
The 570S GT4 is considered an intermediate-to-advanced car in iRacing’s GT4 class. While its balance and agility are appealing, it is less forgiving than more stable front-engine GT4s such as the Aston Martin Vantage GT4 or BMW M4 GT4 Evo. Drivers who enjoy a sharper, more reactive car will find it rewarding, but beginners must focus on throttle and brake discipline.
Real-World Tie-In
The McLaren 570S GT4 has been a major player in global GT4 racing since its debut. It competes in:
- British GT Championship
- GT4 European Series
- IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge
- Regional and national GT4 categories worldwide
Its popularity comes from combining McLaren’s mid-engine DNA with a package that is competitive yet accessible for customer racing teams.
Why Drive the McLaren 570S GT4 in iRacing?
- Agility: Mid-engine layout gives it an edge in tight and technical corners.
- Precision: Smooth drivers can extract excellent lap times.
- Turbocharged Performance: Strong acceleration with careful throttle management.
- Distinctive Feel: Feels different from front-engine rivals, adding variety to the GT4 class.
Tips for Success
- Throttle Discipline: Smooth, progressive application keeps the car stable.
- Brake Carefully: Avoid overly aggressive trail braking to prevent instability.
- Aerodynamics:
- Higher Downforce → Best for technical tracks like Zandvoort or Suzuka.
- Low Drag → Effective at Monza or Daytona but requires throttle patience.
- Momentum Driving: The car rewards flowing lines and precision, not sliding or aggressive corrections.
The McLaren 570S GT4 is one of the most agile and rewarding cars in iRacing’s GT4 lineup. With its sharp handling, mid-engine balance, and turbocharged punch, it is a driver’s car that rewards precision and punishes sloppy inputs. While not as forgiving as some of its front-engine competitors, it remains a favorite for those seeking a more technical GT4 challenge.
It is agile, precise, and unmistakably McLaren — a car that delivers both excitement and competitiveness on the GT4 stage.
