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Technical Specification Highlights
McLaren is a carbon pioneer. In 1981 McLaren gave a debut to a carbon fiber
monocoque chassis in Formula 1 with the launch of the MP4/1 race car, and in
1992 the legendary McLaren F1 introduced the advanced composite technology to
the world of road cars. It was natural then for McLaren Automotive engineers to
apply its carbon expertise when developing the groundbreaking one-piece moulded
chassis of the 12C. With the 12C designed originally as a convertible, its 75 kg
'MonoCell' requires no additional strengthening for it to feature in the 12C
Spider. The result is a sports car almost identical to its fixed roof equivalent
in performance terms, and weighing only 40 kg more with the addition of a
convertible roof system.
The Retractable Hard Top of the 12C Spider is operated using a switch in the
lower section of the centre console inside the cabin, taking less than 17
seconds to raise or lower. Unlike many other convertible models, the roof can be
operated whilst the 12C Spider is moving at speeds of up to 30 km/h (19 mph).
Behind driver and passenger sits a rear windscreen which may also be
electronically lowered and raised. With the roof lowered this acts as wind
deflector to minimize disturbance to the 12C Spider's occupants. With the roof
raised the rear window can be lowered, allowing the exhilarating noise of the
12C Spider's V8 twin turbo engine to flood the cabin on demand at any time.
With the roof raised the area under the tonneau can be used as an additional
luggage area which provides 52 liters of useful storage space. Bespoke luggage
has been designed specifically to fit this space and is supplied as standard
with every 12C Spider.
The 12C Spider also features a passive Roll Over Protection System to maximize
occupant safety. Each buttress contains a steel structure designed to absorb
impact energy and protect both driver and passenger.
12C Spider Personalization Highlights
Launched in Volcano Red - one of 17 exterior paint finishes currently available
for the 12C and 12C Spider- both 12C derivatives will also be available in
optional Volcano Yellow, a striking new high quality paint which features in the
'Elite' range of exterior finishes.
Inside, an exclusive new interior trim has been developed for the 2013 model
year 12C and new 12C Spider. High quality semi-aniline perforated leather and
Alcantara may be selected in a variety of combinations to suit an owner's
personal taste.
A new wheel design, and 'Diamond Cut' finishes for existing lightweight and
super lightweight forged wheel designs may be selected for the 12C Spider.
Standard Silver or Stealth finishes are offered for all wheel designs.
Vehicle Lift will be available as an option on 2013 model year vehicles. The
system allows the 12C Spider to be raised front and rear for improved ground
clearance. This technology permits the vehicle to be raised by up to 40mm at the
front and 25mm at the rear of the 12C Spider, and may remain in position at up
to 60kph (37mph).
Prospective customers and sports car fans alike are encouraged to visit the new
12C Spider online configurator, and discover a range of exciting options that
may be specified in literally millions of unique combinations.
The McLaren 12C Spider is now available to order at all of McLaren's 38
retailers in 22 countries worldwide, with deliveries to first customers planned
for November 2012.
McLaren MP4-12C Spider: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications
