The Mirage M2 stands as a striking testament to the ingenuity and ambition of John Wyer Automotive Engineering during a pivotal era of motorsport history. Constructed in 1968, the M2 was crafted with precision and innovation for the 1969 World Sportscar Championship (WSC), showcasing the hallmarks of advanced engineering and cutting-edge design. This remarkable race car, sponsored by Gulf Oil, exemplifies the synthesis of technology and performance that defined the golden age of endurance racing.
The Mirage M2’s core is its aluminum monocoque chassis, a structure that combines lightweight construction with exceptional rigidity. This innovative chassis design, paired with fiberglass bodywork, allowed the M2 to achieve a fine balance between strength and weight reduction, essential for the rigors of endurance racing. The sleek, aerodynamic body not only enhanced its aesthetic appeal but also contributed to its performance, reducing drag and improving stability at high speeds.
Underneath its striking exterior, the M2 housed a formidable powerplant: a BRM Formula One 3-liter V-12 engine. This engine, capable of developing approximately 370 horsepower, was a marvel of engineering, embodying the high-performance ethos of Formula One technology. Equipped with original two-valve heads and Lucas mechanical injection, the V-12 engine delivered robust power and reliable performance, characteristics that were crucial for the grueling demands of endurance racing.
The M2’s power was managed through a ZF five-speed transaxle, a component known for its precision and durability. This transmission allowed drivers to harness the full potential of the BRM engine, ensuring seamless power delivery and optimal performance across varied racing conditions. The combination of the powerful engine and sophisticated transmission made the M2 a formidable competitor on the racetrack.
The Mirage M2’s racing credentials were further bolstered by its association with some of the most illustrious names in motorsport. Tested by renowned drivers Jacky Ickx and Jackie Oliver, and raced by the legendary David Hobbs and Mike Hailwood, the M2 demonstrated its capabilities in the highly competitive environment of the 1969 Nürburgring 1000 km. Despite the intense competition, the M2 secured a respectable seventh-place finish at Spa, underscoring its performance and reliability.
Of the three M2 chassis produced, only the ’03’ chassis was fitted with the original two-valve engine, enhancing its historical significance. This rare configuration makes the ’03’ chassis a unique artifact, embodying the technical and historical heritage of the Mirage M2. The preservation of this original setup allows enthusiasts and historians to appreciate the car in its authentic form, a direct link to the innovations of the late 1960s.
The Mirage M2 is not just a race car; it epitomizes John Wyer Automotive’s excellence and innovation. Its design showcases a deep understanding of aerodynamics, engineering, and performance, highlighted by an aluminum monocoque and a BRM V-12 engine. As a rare example of racing heritage, the Mirage M2 captivates enthusiasts with its exotic design and significant performance credentials, securing its place in motorsport history as a tribute to an era that celebrated technological advancement and the relentless pursuit of speed.
