2011 McLaren MP4-12C: First
Look
Jay Williams - 20/October/2009
|
2011 McLaren MP4-12C
Check out the massive side air-vents
Sleek tail lights
The MP4-12C boasts a luxurious interior
|
Woking,
United Kingdom
- Through a rich history, McLaren’s automotive division has already
built the world’s most critically acclaimed supercar, the McLaren F1
(1993-1998) and the world’s best-selling luxury supercar, the
Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (2003-2009). McLaren Automotive now looks to
the future with its new latest creation – the 2011 McLaren MP4-12C.
The 2011 McLaren MP4-12C boasts a 3.8-litre V8 engine that produces
447kW of power and 600 Nm of torque. The variable valve-timed,
flat-plane crank, dry-sumped 90-degree V8 engine is developed by
McLaren.
Power is delivered via the seven-speed SSG dual clutch gearbox that
features 'Seamless Shift' technology. Seamless Shift offers variable
settings that include - normal, sport and high performance modes.
Wondering why McLaren have named their new model the MP4-12C?
Well dating back to 1981 all McLaren Formula 1 cars have used MP4 as a
chassis designation – which stands for McLaren Project 4. The
‘12’ refers to McLaren’s 'secret' internal Vehicle Performance Index.
And the ‘C’ refers to Carbon, highlighting the unique application of
carbon fibre used - Carbon MonoCell.
The McLaren MP4-12C has a 80 kg (176 lbs) one-piece carbon fiber
chassis - dubbed the Carbon MonoCell - which was specially designed to
be lightweight, strong, and durable.
The suspension is based on double wishbones with coil springs. The
dampers are interconnected hydraulically and provide adaptive responses
depending on both road conditions and driver preference.
The Proactive system features adjustable roll control which replaces
the mechanical anti-roll bars that have been a standard feature of road
cars. It allows the car to maintain precise roll control under heavy
cornering while decoupling the suspension in a straight line for better
comfort.
As well as the usual line up of electronic aids seen in modern
supercar's, the Mclaren MP4-12C features an advanced Brake
Steer system, which helps to cancel out understeer when entering
corners as well as providing improved traction on the way out. Other
performance features include forged aluminum brake hubs, an Airbrake
system and a Pre-Cog transmission function that "primes" the gearbox
for the next shift.
As far as styling is concerned the F1-inspired dihedral doors and air
scoops resemble the McLaren logo. Out back, the car features LED
taillights and unique centre-mounted dual exhaust tips.
Inside, the MP4-12C boasts a luxurious interior with a slim centre console
(with an "Active Dynamics" control panel), a 7-inch touch screen, and
attractive sport seats. Other design features include a low cowl for
improved visibility, a button-less sports steering wheel, and
door-mounted climate control knobs.
Pricing should be around $450,000, putting the McLaren MP4-12C firmly
in the sights of Porche's 911 GT2 and Lamborghini's Gallardo LP560-4.
Related Links:
- McLaren
Supercar (2010)
- Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 GT (2007)
- SLR McLaren 999 Red Gold Dream (2009)
- Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 GT (2007)
- Brabus
Mercedes SLR McLaren (2005)
- Mercedes-Benz
SLR Stirling Moss (2009)
- Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster (2007)
- Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Freeside Concept (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz F 700 Concept (2007)
|
