What’s New For 2016?
After going on sale last year, the 2016 McLaren 650S adds several newly standard features that were formerly optional, including a backup camera, a front axle lifter, a premium sound system and a host of carbon-fiber accessories that buyers can now choose at no additional cost.
What We Like
Amazing performance; head-turning styling; lots of high-tech gadgets
What We Don’t
Impractical; expensive; not as much name recognition as rivals like Ferrari and Lamborghini
Overview
The 2016 McLaren 650S is an exotic sports car offered in two versions: a hardtop coupe and a retractable-roof convertible model dubbed the 650S Spider. The two models replace the McLaren MP4-12C, from which the similar-looking 650S carries over a large number of parts.
An example of a shared part between the MP4-12C and the 650S? The engine, which is McLaren’s excellent 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8, the same basic powertrain that’s also used in McLaren’s high-performance P1 supercar. But while the engine made 616 horsepower in the MP4-12C, it’s now up to 641 hp and an impressive 500 lb-ft of torque. The result is a 0-to-60 time of just 3 seconds and top speeds as high as 205 miles per hour.
Another striking similarity between the MP4-12C and the all-new 650S: exterior styling. The 650S boasts much the same bold design as last year’s MP4-12C, albeit with a few minor updates, including a revised front end, a new rear end and redesigned wheels. The general profile is similar, though, and we suspect most non-enthusiasts will have a hard time telling apart the two sports cars.
As for pricing, the 650S plays in the high-dollar world of Ferrari, Lamborghini and other exotic car brands. Even with several newly standard features this year, the exotic 2-seater starts around $266,000 with shipping for the coupe, while the open-top 650S Spider is closer to $281,000 including destination. Those are huge figures, but the price tag is backed up by one of the most amazing performances of any modern car in existence.
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