Just like a feminine presence knows how to generate attraction by getting one confused, the McLaren MP4-12C stirs interest thanks to its totally unconventional place in the supercar world.
This is one of the few machines of its kind that comes with an important name, but doesn't have a history. The MP4-12C didn’t care about this, as it came to the market as a no-compromise promise. However, things become a bit more complicated when talking about the Spider.
It’s easy to get confused when trying to understand who the McLaren MP4-12C Spider works. Ask an engineer about putting “no compromise driving” and an open top in the same sentence and he’ll slap you. However, McLaren’s alchemists brag that they have found the formula that allows the two to mix.
And there’s more to the MP4-12C Spider. Developing a supercar from scratch also meant that McLaren missed a few spots with the Coupe and it seems that the company has found a very sweet way of fixing this - the 12C Spider.
This isn't just an MP4-12C that has blown its top off, it also features a number of revisions that make up a full-size facelift. This is McLaren's way of saying "we actually listened when the customers had something to say and now we've changed things". If you look closely, you'll notice the McLaren has even revised the name of the car. Yes, its official designation is the MP4-12C Spider, but they call its the 12C Spider on most occasions.
Thrill seekers will only have eyes for the 25 hp boost, but there are also more practical additions, such as the optional vehicle lift system. While owners of MP4-12C around the world won't be entirely pleased to hear that only a part of these changes are retrofitable, those who buy a Coupe built after the Spider was launched will benefit from the complete list of additions.
Armed with the memories from the
McLaren MP4-12C test drive, we invited the Spider over for a drive in order to see if the Brits were lying when they said they could build a driver’s convertible.