McLaren Re-Enters the Ring

When McLaren’s name first appeared in the supercar market, it decimated everything in its path. Still among the fastest cars ever created, the F1 was the most driver-oriented car on the market... and still is, in many ways. From its racing inspired centre seat arrangement to its gold-lined engine bay, every single detail was designed to provide the driver with the most alluring experience.

And just like that, McLaren disappeared into the depths of the automotive marketplace. Relegated to simple tuning, McLaren was content to produce powerhouse engines for whomever could pay. At least that’s what everyone thought, until now. Having just announced the first in what will supposedly be “a range of high performance sports cars from McLaren Automotive,” the boringly-named MP4-12C will enter the market directly across from Ferrari’s equally new 458 Italia, Aston’s Vantage, and Lamborghini’s LP560-4. But, if the release is any indication, the McLaren looks like it’ll easily handle the inevitable magazine comparisons with a plethora of new technology.

First, there’s the rigid carbon fibre tub. Although that may not be anything special in this day in age, the McLaren’s is of a single piece, weighing substantially less... as in 176 pounds worth of light. Outside, every single panel is also made of the lightweight composite material. Of course, that has ramped up the price, which is expected to fall into the $256,000 range; more than both the Ferrari and Lamborghini.

Then, there’s the engine. A 3.8 litre, twin turbocharged V8. With a flat-plane crank, dry sump oiling, and an ability to rev to 8,500 rpm. Making 600 horsepower and 433 lb-ft of torque, the engine is the highest horsepower-to-emissions ratio engine available, and provides 80% of the torque at just 2,000 rpm. Backed by a seven-speed twin-clutch gearbox that allows the driver to pre-load the next available gear by half-depressing the paddle to speed up upshifts, the entire powertrain package should slingshot the McLaren to 60 in three seconds or less and be good for at least 200 miles per hour.

And then there’s the handling. With the engine in the middle, it’s expected to be good all by itself, but McLaren has fitted standard brake discs (ceramic is too heavy) and a braking system that drags the inside corner’s brake to combat understeer.
All in all, it sounds amazing, but we’ll have to wait to see for ourselves!