1972 | McLaren M8F

“The ultimate Laxative”
McLaren M8F “Cuddy”
Chassis 72-8
FIA HTP until 2035
Ready to Race

The McLaren M8F, designed by Gordon Coppuck and the McLaren team, represented the pinnacle of Can-Am racing in the early 1970s. Built for the 1971 season, the M8F was a focused evolution of the successful M8 series, featuring an 8.1-liter (later 8.3-liter) Chevrolet V8 producing over 700 horsepower. Its aluminum monocoque chassis, extended wheelbase, and refined aerodynamics—including full-length side fences—delivered both stability and raw speed. The M8F dominated the 1971 Can-Am championship, with Peter Revson and Denny Hulme securing victories, and François Cevert claiming the last Can-Am win for the M8 series in 1972. Engineers and drivers alike praised the M8F for its balance of power and handling, cementing its reputation as one of the most formidable machines in Can-Am history.

Chassis M8FP-08, affectionately known as "CUDDY," holds a storied place in American Can-Am racing. Originally sold to Bill and Frank Kahlick, the car was campaigned in the 1973 Can-Am series before being acquired by Bill Cuddy.

Under Cuddy’s ownership, the car was further developed with input from Sam Posey and Carroll Smith, and it competed in several Can-Am races during 1974. Cuddy later sold the car to Bud Romak, who set a track record at Riverside—briefly holding the top spot before the Porsche 917-30 surpassed it. Tragedy struck in 1976 when the car caught fire at Sears Point while owned by Romak. The burnt remains were sold to Hal Whipple and later to Chuck Lamb who in 1989 commissioned a full restoration by John and Graham Collins in Santa Ana. 

In the Nineties Chuck Lamb had George Follmer drive it competitively winning most races during which period it obtained the nickname “The McLaren from Hell”.  

In more recent years the car was brought back to its original “CUDDY” livery and sold to a Dutch Gentleman racer who entered the car in selected historic races in Europe. 

In 2023 Jos Verstappen drove the car at the Red Bull ring in front of a cheering “Orange Army” and in 2024 the car was invited for a CanAm demo during the Goodwood Members meeting. 

Some Highlights

• Maintained to the highest standards
• All previous owners and drivers on record
• Original SCCA Logbook when owned by Kahlick, Cuddy and Romak included as well as the more recent HSR Logbook
• All invoices from the restoration by Collins and later are included
• 3 hours on engine and gearbox
• Spare set of wheels
• FIA HTP valid until 2035
• Ready to race