Skip advert
Advertisement

McLaren MP4-12C

evo’s roster of serious drivers was genuinely staggered by the unsexily named McLaren when they first drove it, in particular by its startling acceleration, its grippy yet softly riding chassis and its uncanny ability to cover ground with security and confidence, whatever the weather. Chris Harris was so impressed he described it as ‘the best sports car – perhaps the best road car of any description – I have ever driven’ (evo 155).

Specifications

EngineV8, 3799cc, twin-turbo
Transmission7-speed, double clutch paddle shift, RWD
Peak power592bhp @ 7000rpm
Peak torque442lb ft @ 3000-7000rpm
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

McLaren MP4-12C (2011 - 2014) – Ferrari 458 performance for used Porsche 911 money
McLaren MP4-12C
Reviews

McLaren MP4-12C (2011 - 2014) – Ferrari 458 performance for used Porsche 911 money

McLaren's MP4-12C was the company's first step to taking on Ferrari, and what it lacked in emotional connection it made up for with searing performanc…
23 Sep 2025
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

VW Golf GTI Edition 50 v Toyota GR Yaris Aero v Honda Civic Type R: hot hatch stars go head-to-head
Golf GTI v GR Yaris Aero v Civic Type R
Group tests

VW Golf GTI Edition 50 v Toyota GR Yaris Aero v Honda Civic Type R: hot hatch stars go head-to-head

Volkswagen and Toyota have just released the best versions yet of the GR Yaris and Mk8 Golf GTI. Does either have what it takes to overcome the brilli…
2 Aug 2026
I put budget tyres to the test in the wet, and the results were terrifying
Cheap tyres
Opinion

I put budget tyres to the test in the wet, and the results were terrifying

Skimping on tyres may save you a few pounds, but at what cost, ponders Barker
30 Jul 2026
A week in a Porsche 911 GT3: why the world’s best sports car isn’t quite perfect
Porsche 911 GT3 Touring
Long term tests

A week in a Porsche 911 GT3: why the world’s best sports car isn’t quite perfect

A week in the Porsche 911 GT3 reveals why even the world’s best sports car can’t get it all right
3 Aug 2026