This also makes the MP4-12C heavier than the F1, but heavy is a relative term — the entire vehicle weighs only 2,866 lbs.
The front hood, roof, and front fenders (or “wings”) are also constructed of aluminum. The other panels are fiberglass (SMC).
Powertrain
The 3.8-litre 90-degree V8 was designed by McLaren and is built by a supplier in England. It features all aluminum construction, dry sump, direct injection, and twin turbos. It produces 592 hp at 7,000 rpm and 443 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm.
The stainless steel exhaust is mounted high on the engine, to facilitate a short and direct exit strategy — straight out with no kinks. There is also an optional alloy exhaust system.
Freiberger said 80 percent of torque is available at 2,000 rpm and 100 percent at 3,000 rpm. This should make for lively performance; McLaren figures 0-60 mph in less than four seconds, and a top speed over 200 mph.
The engine is mated to a seven-speed double-clutch transmission. No clutch pedal. Automatic or manual shifting, the latter via an F1-style aluminum rocker paddle that pivots in the centre of the steering wheel.
Dynamic Personality
There are many dynamic-focused systems and engineering solutions: Here's a sampling:
The front hood, roof, and front fenders (or “wings”) are also constructed of aluminum. The other panels are fiberglass (SMC).
 |
| Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre/Auto123.com |
Powertrain
The 3.8-litre 90-degree V8 was designed by McLaren and is built by a supplier in England. It features all aluminum construction, dry sump, direct injection, and twin turbos. It produces 592 hp at 7,000 rpm and 443 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm.
The stainless steel exhaust is mounted high on the engine, to facilitate a short and direct exit strategy — straight out with no kinks. There is also an optional alloy exhaust system.
Freiberger said 80 percent of torque is available at 2,000 rpm and 100 percent at 3,000 rpm. This should make for lively performance; McLaren figures 0-60 mph in less than four seconds, and a top speed over 200 mph.
The engine is mated to a seven-speed double-clutch transmission. No clutch pedal. Automatic or manual shifting, the latter via an F1-style aluminum rocker paddle that pivots in the centre of the steering wheel.
Dynamic Personality
There are many dynamic-focused systems and engineering solutions: Here's a sampling:
- Fully enclosed, under panel design, including front splitter and rear diffuser;
- Side mounted air intakes allow for a narrower back end than other vehicles with similar high-performance mid-mounted engines;
- McLaren Airbrake is an active rear spoiler-like device, that helps settle the car under braking;
- Launch control;
- Brake steer to reduce under steer;
- Optional ceramic discs and rotors;
- Front and rear wishbone suspension bolted directly to chassis;
- Hydraulic-controlled dampers with three settings (normal, sport and track);
- Damper system shares fluid and pump with power steering, to save weight;
- Other weight savings solutions include lithium-ion battery and magnesium dash beam (the latter features etched-out McLaren logo, saving an additional 2.1 grams).
 |
| Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre/Auto123.com |