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McLaren Elva: an open supercar without a roof or windscreen
The McLaren Elva is a limited-run open supercar that deliberately omits a roof and traditional windscreen. We explain what makes it special, what engine it has, and what you need to know if one of these cars hits the market.
The Elva in brief
The Elva was unveiled in 2018 and started deliveries to customers in 2020. A limited number of 149 cars were produced. The name pays homage to the 1960s McLaren Elva race car, and the modern model continues the idea of a light, open sports car.
The car has no roof, and instead of a traditional windscreen, it features a special air management solution that directs the airflow over the driver and passenger. Due to its limited production, the Elva rarely appears in regular listings.
The standard Elva and its variants
The standard Elva has no windscreen, and the airflow is managed by an active aerodynamic system. This results in a unique driving experience—much more air and noise than in a typical convertible.
Some cars can be optionally fitted with an additional windscreen or other bespoke solutions. Since many Elvas are personalised in the manufacturer's special orders division, two Elvas rarely look the same.
The engine and transmission
The Elva is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, producing around 800 hp. It's the same engine type used in other McLaren sports cars, but in the Elva, it's tailored to a light, open body.
Gearbox — seven-speed automatic with dual clutch, rear-wheel drive. The car is incredibly light, making acceleration breathtaking, but handling requires experience.
What to know if you're considering an Elva
Due to its extremely limited production run, each car has its own story — it's worth checking the full service history with the manufacturer, details of previous owners, and whether the car was used daily or just as a collector's item.
Before buying, inspect the car with a McLaren specialist: check the carbon fibre body (cracks, signs of repair), engine and gearbox condition, brakes, and tyres. It's crucial that all service work has been carried out according to the manufacturer's schedule.
Pay attention to the documents and whether the car hasn't been modified for another market or tampered with — such cars are often kept in collections, so even minor defects can affect its value.
Versions
The Elva didn't have traditional trim levels — we list the main versions based on equipment.
Standartinis Elva
2020–2021Base version, without the front windscreen.
- Open body without a roof
- Active Air Management System
- Rear-wheel drive and 4.0-litre V8
Elva su stiklu
to orderSome cars come with an optional front windscreen.
- Often — a front windscreen instead of an active air management solution
- Often — more comfortable highway driving
- A different driving feel
Individualizuotas Elva
2020–2021Cars with manufacturer's individualization packages
- Often — unique colours and upholstery
- Often — distinctive wheels and details
- Each example is unique
Comparing versions
| Standartinis | Su stiklu | Individualizuotas | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For the purist seeking open road driving | For faster, more comfortable driving | For the collector |
| Engine | 4.0-litre V8, around 800 hp | 4.0-litre V8, around 800 hp | 4.0-litre V8, around 800 hp |
| Gearbox | Seven-speed automatic | Seven-speed automatic | Seven-speed automatic |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ | €€€ |
The Elva is a collector's, rare car, not your everyday purchase. If one appears on the market, first assess its history, paperwork, and condition.
Pros
- Very rare — only 149 units produced
- An unusual open driving experience
- Powerful engine and very light body
- Carbon fibre construction
Cons
- Very rare and expensive to maintain
- No roof or windscreen — not ideal for bad weather
- Repairs and parts — only from the manufacturer or specialists
Frequently asked questions
How many Elvas were made?
A total of 149 cars were produced.
Does the Elva have a front windscreen?
Not in the standard version — airflow is managed by an active system. Some cars may have an optional front windscreen, so it's worth checking.
Is the Elva suitable for daily use?
Rare. Without a roof and with a powerful engine, it's designed for pleasure and collecting, not daily use.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
