McLaren makes the MP4-12C Spider 2013 official

Last weekend, McLaren revealed the updated MP4-12C live at the 2012 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Two days after the event ended, the British manufacturer has officially made its new creation official, the MP4-12C Spider, a supercar designed for enjoying open-air driving. It will be available at the brand’s dealerships starting today, while the first customer deliveries are scheduled for November of this year.

The McLaren MP4-12C Spider receives the same monocoque chassis as the coupé, with an additional weight of just 40 kg. No extra reinforcement was required, since the MP4-12C was originally designed as a convertible. The roof folding mechanism adds only 40 kg to the convertible and can be retracted at the press of a button. It takes just 17 seconds to complete this operation, and it can be performed at speeds of up to 30 km/h. The Spider also features an electronically operated rear windscreen that acts as a wind deflector. It can be raised or lowered.

In the mid-rear position sits the heart of this convertible. Just like its hardtop sibling, the Spider features a twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre V8 capable of delivering 625 CV of power to the rear axle through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Despite this added weight, performance remains impressive. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint is completed in exactly 3.1 seconds, and 0 to 200 km/h in 9 seconds. Its top speed is reduced by 4 km/h, reaching 329 km/h.

To protect the occupants, the British engineers have fitted steel structures to reinforce and improve the rollover protection systems. These are designed to absorb impact forces in accidents and maximise occupant safety.

When the roof is raised, the lucky owners can enjoy 52 litres of additional storage space. McLaren will offer bespoke luggage designed by the brand itself.

The McLaren MP4-12C Spider will offer 17 exterior paint options. The interior features numerous configurations, such as the option of fitting leather-and-Alcantara upholstered bucket seats. It also receives a new wheel design and diamond-cut finishes for the forged wheels. A lift system for the vehicle will join the options list, raising the convertible 40 mm at the front and 25 mm at the rear at speeds of up to 60 km/h.

As a side note, I must say it reminds me greatly of the Ferrari 458 Spider. The roofs are practically identical. The battle is on.

Source| McLaren