The McLaren MP4-12C Spider in 72 new images

Following the official presentation of the McLaren MP4-12C Spider at Pebble Beach, California, last August, the English firm led by Ron Dennis has released a huge gallery of images of its first convertible, along with detailed specifications for the model.

Compared with other convertibles based on a coupé, the MP4-12C Spider does not increase its weight considerably, mainly because it was originally designed without a fixed roof. This can be folded away by an automatic system in less than 17 seconds and the operation can be carried out at speeds of up to 30 km/h.

When the compartment housing the roof is empty, it can be used to accommodate extra luggage that does not fit in the small front boot. In addition, the Woking two-seater convertible features a heated glass rear window that can operate independently of the roof’s position, improving the sound inside the cabin produced by the powerful engine.

The Spider comes equipped with two bags specially designed for this version, which fit in the 52-litre storage space behind the seats, while the climate control and audio systems adapt when the roof is down. In this way, it is possible to undertake, if the suspension allows, a weekend trip without having to worry about whether our belongings will fit.

In order to save weight, McLaren has opted for an active roll-bar system instead of using a steel structure at the rear formed by buttresses to absorb any impact and protect the occupants in the event of a rollover. With these measures, the weight increase over the coupé amounts to only 40 kg, a ridiculously small figure for these cases.

The mid-rear mounted engine remains the same twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre V8 capable of producing 625 CV of power. It is connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that transmits power to the rear wheels. Thanks to a compact unit, fuel consumption is rated at 11.4 l/100 km.

Performance matches the figures the powertrain delivers. It goes from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds with the optional Pirelli PZero Corsa tyres. In seventh gear with the throttle fully open it could reach 329 km/h. The first few metres are just as quick as the coupé, but as it progresses, acceleration and top speed gradually fall off.

Source | McLaren