Skip advert
Advertisement

Ferrari 458 beats McLaren MP4-12C

The Ferrari 458 Italia wins supercar clash of 2011, beating the new McLaren MP4-12C

In the biggest clash of 2011, Ferrari 458 Italia beats McLaren MP4-12C. The 202mph, 562bhp 458 is resoundingly more emotive than the 205mph, 592bhp McLaren.  Contrary to predictions, the Ferrari lapped Bedford over a second faster than Woking’s baby with our own Roger Green at the wheel. With the hype surrounding the McLaren’s outright speed and efficiency we thought it would trump the Ferrari not only on pace, but also detailing and user-friendliness. At eight-tenths on the road, the Mac does not feel as thoroughly resolved as we expected it to be.  The MP4-12C is quicker in a straight line, rides better, is more economical and more stable. However, the brakes’ initial bite is hard to modulate, the gearbox’s paddle action is not to our taste and overall, the McLaren MP4-12C lacks the emotional pull of the Ferrari 458 Italia.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Uprated, faster versions of both cars will come along in due course and the balance may change. Huge picture galleries: Ferrari 458 and McLaren MP4-12C Video reviews: Ferrari 458 Italia and McLaren MP4-12C Track test video: Ferrari v McLaren v Porsche v Noble Buy evo’s McLaren v Ferrari issue in paper, iPad or Zinio form

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Audi R8 V8 (2007 - 2015) review – the Porsche 911’s equal is a bargain super sports car
Audi R8 V8
Reviews

Audi R8 V8 (2007 - 2015) review – the Porsche 911’s equal is a bargain super sports car

The Audi R8’s launch was perhaps one of the biggest moments in 2000s performance motoring. It’s as sweet today as back then
9 Sep 2025
£200k is a lot for a new 911 Turbo so here are some used options
Used Porsche 911 Turbo
News

£200k is a lot for a new 911 Turbo so here are some used options

The new 992.2 Turbo S has supercar-slaying performance and a bona fide supercar price. Pay less for a used one and get very nearly as much performance…
11 Sep 2025
Ferrari Testarossa returns after 30 years, but things have changed
Ferrari 849 Testarossa
News

Ferrari Testarossa returns after 30 years, but things have changed

Ferrari has launched the 849 Testarossa to fill the gap left by the SF90, taking inspiration from models of the past and its flagship F80 hypercar
9 Sep 2025