McLaren performance figures released

Iconic brand comes clean with all the nitty gritty on its all-new supercar... and the figures don't disappoint

McLaren has finally concluded its drip-feed release of information relating to its long-awaited MP4-12C by issuing full performance figures for the twin-turbo V8 coupe.

The figures are certainly eye-opening as the carbonfibre-chassis sportster posts claimed performance figures that match or exceed those of the Ferrari 458 Italia and Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4.

The 441kW/600Nm eked out by the force-fed 3.8-litre V8 combine with a relatively light kerb weight of 1434kg to yield a 0-100km/h dash of 3.3sec (or 3.1sec with optional Corsa tyres).

The 0-200km/h sprint is dispatched in 9.1sec and the standing 400m in 10.9sec at 216km/h, which is blisteringly fast by any measure. In fact, it eclipses even the legendary F1 and is only trumped by the latter on top speed. And, even then, a v-max of 330km/h isn't exactly sluggardly.

The data indicates the Mac has at least the straight-line credentials to make life difficult for its Maranello and Sant'Agata rivals (and Stuttgart, for that matter), but what remains to be seen is whether it stacks up convincingly as an all-round package.

For what it's worth, some of the overseas motoring mags that have snared first drives of the car are waxing lyrical about its ride, handling and grip levels.

Autocar's Steve Sutcliffe says the 12C is also "friendly near the limit, and supremely comfortable as well".

We'll form our own opinions when we manage to clap our mitts on the car, but the early signs seem to suggest the Woking crew has managed to nail the design brief -- no small feat when you consider this is their first road-going vehicle since the Mercedes SLR (which was generally perceived as a disappointment).


McLaren MP4-12C performance data
Power 441kW at 7000 rpm
Torque  600Nm from 3000-7000rpm
Weight DIN 1434kg
Dry weight 1336kg (1301kg with lightweight options)
Fuel consumption (combined) 11.7L/100 km
Power to weight 339kW/tonne
Maximum speed 330km/h
0-100km/h 3.3sec (3.1sec with Corsa tyre option)
0-200km/h 9.1sec (8.9sec with Corsa tyre option)
0-400m 10.9sec at 216km/h
0-1000m 19.6sec at 272km/h
Braking 200-0km/h   123 metres
100-0km/h 30.5 metres

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...