Geneva 2014: McLaren 650S

4 March, 2014

J-C Etter

The new McLaren 650S, a sharper, more focused version of the MP4-12C.

Available from spring 2014 as a coupe or spider, the 650S complements – but does not replace – the MP4-12C. The 3.8L twinturbo V8 puts out 650 hp at 7250 rpm (instead of 625 at 7500 rpm on the MP4-12C) and a peak torque of 678 Nm at 6000 rpm, sent to the rear wheels through a twin clutch 7 ratio SSG. Esthetic changes are concentrated around the new facia, derived from the P1 supercar. McLaren claims an increase of downforce of 24% at 241 km/h (150 mph). Rims (19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J) are specific and shod with specific Pirelli PZero Corsa MC1 tires (235/35 R19 front, 305/30 R20 rear). Dimensions are 4512 mm in length, 2093 mm in width and 1199 mm in height; wheelbase is unchanged at 2670 mm. Dry weight is claimed at 1330 kg.

McLaren announces the 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 8.4 seconds (vs 8.9s for the MP4-12C) and a top of speed of 333 km/h.

The Airbrake system has been revised to further increase stability in corners and deploys also when the electronic control unit detects a need for added downforce on the rear axle. The rear bumper is also specific and comes from the GT3 version. The options list includes carbon racing bucket sets from the P1 (6060 €), an electrically adjustable steering column (1630 €), a rear camera system (1220 €) and further carbon trim options inside.

McLaren has not communicated official pricing but leaks point to a 10% in comparison with the MP4-12C, or 232’500€, TVA included.