Legendary automotive designer Steve Nichols has taken a nostalgic turn. The Nichols N1A draws from the McLaren alum’s iconic Can-Am racer, the M1A, as well as the McLaren MP4/4. The lightweight two-seater is powered by a mid-mounted 7.0-litre V8 engine, producing over 600 bhp. Power is fed to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.
Limited to 15 examples — one for each of the McLaren MP4/4’s Formula 1 victories — the Nicholas N1A is a sight to behold. Taking on a more dynamic stance than its inspirations, the N1A uses a carbon fibre and aluminium chassis with double wishbones at each corner. A wider and longer wheelbase and a how-low-can-you-go nose contribute to its aggressive appearance. The bodywork seemingly moulds itself to the 19” and 20” wheels — at the front and back, respectively — with the alloys almost the same height as the car.
The roadworthy N1A clocks in at an ultra-lightweight 900kg — and that’s after fluids. The interior is kept intentionally sparse, with the main controls machined from solid aluminium. The driving position is bespoke to each driver, with the N1A allowing for a fully reclined driving position akin to what Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost experienced in the McLaren MP4/4, albeit on the open road.
The Nichols N1A can be ordered in various paint colours and with bespoke livery. For a more contemporary driving experience, owners can opt for power steering and switchable ABS. No more than 100 examples will be produced; the first 15 launch-spec vehicles will be fitted with the 600 bhp V8, while the following 85 cars will employ a smaller Chevy LT1 engine.
Words by Henry Blake
