The 500-limited run 675LT Coupe sold out as soon as it was announced. To give those who missed out on one a second chance, they’ve launched the convertible Spider version. And I want one, immediately.
McLaren call the 675LT Spider “the most focused, fastest and exhilarating open model to wear a McLaren badge.” Looking at the numbers, there’s no denying that.
As the name suggests its essentially a topless version of the 675LT. That means it’s powered by the same 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 675bhp/497kW, 700NM of torque. The aptly numbered bhp power is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
As the Long Tail Spider (LT, not some kind of poisonous arachnid) carries over the same folding hardtop roof as the 650S, it weighs 40kg more than the fixed roof LT. But it is still some 100kg lighter than the 650S Spider.
Despite the increase in weight over the Coupe, 0-100 km/h remains at 2.9 seconds. 0-200 km/h is done in 8.1 seconds, two-tenths slower than the Coupe. Top speed is also reduced to 325 km/h. But really, these are a small price to pay for that ‘wind-in-your-hair’ experience. Especially if you’re able to take it past 320 km/h, which is something only a handful of convertible cars can do.
Mechanically, the Spider is identical to the Coupe. The suspension is 27 percent stiffer at the front and 60 percent stiffer at the rear compared to the 650S. There’s Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tyres wrapped around bespoke 20-spoke lightweight alloys (235/35 R19s front, 305/20 R20s rear). The alloys are said to be lighter than the ones on the Coupe, which were already lighter than those found on the P1 hypercar.
The more aggressive front with a military-grade diffuser and winglets, along with the airbrakes that’s 50 percent bigger, work together to increase downforce by 40 percent. My mouth literally started watering as I was typed all that. What a car!
Expect the 675LT Spider to be pricey. Only two units of the Coupe were destined for NZ, so expect around the same allocation for the Spider. First deliveries in Europe are expected in the summer/mid-next year. If you want one get your order in quick. While you’re at it, order one for me too. Maybe not in this Solis Green colour seen in the photos though.
