McLaren P1- From Clear Protection to a One-of-One Stealth Paint Protection Film Statement

At First Class Autosports, certain projects go far beyond protection. They become a design decision, a transformation, and a statement of intent. This McLaren P1 project is a perfect example.

The vehicle arrived with an aging clear paint protection film that had reached the end of its lifecycle. Rather than simply refreshing what was already there, the client chose a more ambitious direction: a complete reset and a full conversion to XPEL Stealth PPF, creating a truly unique, one-of-one finish.

The Car: A Modern Hypercar Icon

The McLaren P1 needs little introduction. Produced in extremely limited numbers, the P1 represents McLaren’s no-compromise philosophy: Formula 1–derived aerodynamics, lightweight carbon-fiber construction, and a hybrid powertrain engineered for instant torque and relentless performance.

Every surface on the P1 is functional. The flowing bodywork channels air, manages heat, and generates downforce at speed. Carbon fiber is not just a visual element—it is the backbone of the car’s structure and identity. Any protection or restyling work on a P1 must respect this engineering while elevating its presence.

A Globally Recognized Example

This exact McLaren P1 is not only rare by production numbers—it is also recognized well beyond enthusiast circles. Approximately one year prior to its transformation at First Class Autosports, this vehicle was reviewed in detail by renowned automotive journalist and content creator Doug DeMuro.

Known for his methodical walk-throughs and attention to the smallest details, Doug highlighted this P1’s specification, condition, and defining characteristics in a review seen by millions worldwide. Very few hypercars receive that level of documented exposure, and even fewer continue to evolve after being so thoroughly cataloged.

This project represents the next chapter in the life of that very same car—moving from global recognition to a fully reimagined, one-of-one configuration. While the engineering and performance remain untouched, its visual identity has been elevated to reflect its stature.

Phase One: Full Removal of the Original Clear PPF

Before any transformation could begin, our team performed a complete removal of the existing clear paint protection film. On a vehicle of this caliber, this process demands patience, experience, and absolute precision.

Each panel was carefully stripped to preserve the original paint and exposed carbon fiber beneath. This step ensures there is no adhesive residue, no surface compromise, and a perfectly clean foundation before any new material is applied.

Phase Two: XPEL Stealth PPF — Protection Meets Design

Rather than reinstalling a traditional gloss film, we applied XPEL Stealth PPF across the entire vehicle. While Stealth is widely known for its protective capabilities, on this P1 it served a dual purpose: protection and a complete visual transformation.

The satin finish fundamentally changes how light interacts with the car. Carbon fiber becomes more pronounced, body lines appear sharper and more aggressive, and reflections are intentionally subdued—creating a motorsport-inspired aesthetic that feels purposeful and restrained.

The result is not simply a protected P1, but a re-imagined one.

A True One-of-One Result

What defines this project is restraint. There are no graphics, no loud colors, and no distractions. The Stealth finish amplifies what McLaren originally engineered while ensuring the car stands apart instantly—even among other P1s.

This McLaren P1 now exists as a true one-of-one configuration, protected against road debris and wear, while presenting a visual identity that is as rare as the car itself.

The First Class Approach

Projects at this level are treated like precision surgery. We intentionally limit behind-the-scenes documentation, focusing instead on results and discretion. Our techniques, processes, and standards are the foundation of what allows us to deliver flawless outcomes on the world’s most significant automobiles.

At First Class Autosports, every hypercar is handled with discipline, respect, and an understanding of what it represents.

Not Our First McLaren P1 Stealth Project

This McLaren P1 is not the first example entrusted to First Class Autosports for a full XPEL Stealth PPF transformation.

Prior to this project, our team completed a full Stealth installation on a yellow-painted McLaren P1, delivering the same level of precision, surface preparation, and restraint required at the highest level of automotive protection.

Working on multiple P1 platforms provides a unique advantage. Each car presents different challenges—paint versus exposed carbon fiber, panel geometry, light interaction, and film behavior across complex aerodynamic surfaces. That experience allows us to approach each new P1 project with deeper understanding, refined technique, and proven processes.

For collectors and hypercar owners, repeat experience on the same ultra-rare model matters. It ensures consistency, confidence, and outcomes that respect both the engineering and the long-term value of the vehicle.

Final Thoughts

The McLaren P1 is already a legend. This transformation elevates it further—into a curated, protected, and unmistakably unique expression of modern automotive design.

Protection was the requirement.Exclusivity was the goal.The result speaks for itself.

Why This McLaren P1 Project Matters

This McLaren P1 project clearly demonstrates how Paint Protection Film (PPF) can serve both as a preservation tool and a design choice. By removing aging clear PPF and installing XPEL Stealth PPF, First Class Autosports transformed a globally recognized hypercar into a one-of-one satin-finished example while maintaining factory paint and exposed carbon fiber integrity.

For collectors and hypercar owners, this approach balances:

• Long-term vehicle preservation

• A reversible, non-invasive aesthetic transformation

• Increased visual exclusivity without permanent modification

This philosophy defines how First Class Autosports approaches high-level vehicles.

Is XPEL Stealth PPF safe for hypercars like the McLaren P1?

Yes. XPEL Stealth PPF is specifically engineered to protect high-value vehicles, including carbon fiber body panels and complex aerodynamic surfaces found on hypercars such as the McLaren P1.

Can PPF completely change the appearance of a car?

Absolutely. While PPF is primarily designed for protection, satin and matte films like XPEL Stealth can dramatically alter how light interacts with the paint or carbon fiber, creating a completely different visual presence without repainting the vehicle.

Why remove old PPF instead of layering over it?

Old PPF degrades over time. Removing it ensures there is no adhesive contamination, discoloration, or compromised adhesion before installing new film. This step is critical on exotic and collector-grade vehicles.

Is this McLaren P1 the same one reviewed by Doug DeMuro?

Yes. This exact McLaren P1 was reviewed by Doug DeMuro approximately one year prior to its transformation at First Class Autosports, making it both a globally documented and now visually reimagined example.

Where is First Class Autosports located?

First Class Autosports is located in South Miami, Florida, and specializes in high-end Paint Protection Film, ceramic coatings, and vehicle restyling for exotic, luxury, and performance vehicles.