The McLaren 720 has garnered significant attention in the supercar world, often lauded as a step above its predecessors. But how does it truly stack up in the real world, especially against models like the McLaren 570? One driver shares their firsthand experience, offering valuable insights for those considering the jump to a 720 Mclaren.
Unleashing Brutal Midrange Power and Torque in the 720 McLaren
Many enthusiasts point to the raw power of the 720 McLaren, and for good reason. The surge of power and torque in the midrange is undeniably intense. Having had the opportunity to drive a 720 as a loaner, while my own 570 underwent repairs, the difference in acceleration is immediately apparent. While the 570 is by no means slow, the 720 McLaren exists in a different realm of speed. Reaching 100mph in the 720 happens in what feels like the blink of an eye – it’s devastatingly quick.
Suspension and Handling: Is the 720 McLaren a Revolutionary Leap?
The “amazing trick suspension” of the 720 McLaren is often touted as a game-changer. While it’s undeniably an improvement over the 570, the upgrade might be more incremental than revolutionary. The enhanced suspension is noticeable, offering a refined ride, but it’s not a night-and-day transformation. Concerns about potential accumulator issues with the suspension system also linger, a reminder that even high-performance machines can have complexities. However, ignoring all negative press would mean missing out on the McLaren experience altogether.
In terms of handling at the limit, the 570 feels arguably more approachable. The 720 McLaren, when it reaches its handling limits, can snap more abruptly. For seasoned track drivers, this might be manageable, even desirable. But for drivers less experienced on the track, the 570 may offer a more forgiving and controllable experience.
Interior Space and Accessibility: 720 McLaren vs 570GT
The 720 McLaren is often described as having a more spacious interior. However, comparing it to the 570 GT, which features a glass roof, the difference becomes less pronounced. The GT’s glass roof enhances headroom and light within the cabin, mitigating some of the perceived space advantage of the 720. While the 720 McLaren interior might be slightly larger, the improved ingress and egress, thanks to doors extending into the roofline, are a more tangible benefit, especially for taller drivers.
The Upgrade Question: Is the 720 McLaren Worth It?
Moving from older sports cars to a 570 represents a significant leap in driving dynamics and excitement. The jump from a 570 to a 720 McLaren, while noticeable, is a smaller increment in comparison. The question then becomes: is the 720 McLaren worth the additional investment over a 570?
Unless a very specific, highly desirable 720 McLaren configuration becomes available, the value proposition might be debatable for some. The sheer speed of the 720 also raises the question of whether that extra performance would truly be utilized, or if it simply increases the potential for “stupidly higher speed” incidents.
While the driver in this account anticipates owning a 720 McLaren eventually, perhaps even considering stepping up to a 765 for a more substantial upgrade, the 570 continues to provide immense satisfaction. The ownership experience with McLaren, even with minor issues like panel corrosion, has been positive, highlighting the importance of professional and customer-focused service.
Ultimately, driving any McLaren is a rewarding experience. Whether the 720 McLaren justifies its premium over models like the 570 comes down to individual priorities, driving style, and budget. Both models offer exhilarating performance, but the 720 McLaren undoubtedly sits at a higher echelon of supercar capabilities.
