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Saturday, July 21, 2012

McLaren MP4-12C

I went to the McLaren dealership in Newport Beach today and had a look around and I have to say I'm really impressed with the MP4-12C. They have a rolling chassis display which has the hydraulically linked dampers displayed along with the monocell (monocoque to the purists) and a bunch of other flashy bits like the magnesium instrument cluster carrier.

Being in Newport Beach, I'm guessing this is one of the few places that has almost as many of these cars as the factory in Woking does. I counted at least 7 of them all brand new waiting for owners. One car that was missing was the chrome example

While driving a few hours later we managed to find the chromed one broken down on the side of the road. The gentleman waiting with the car told us it was some sort of electrical or engine issue. Bummer.



This did give us a chance to open the door though which produced two interesting facts.

  1. To open the door, you swipe your hand across a sensor under the side inlets. There's no movement. Good one McLaren. I'm impressed.
  2. When parked next to the curb, the doors are not able to open. The doors first move perpendicular to the body then swing up but the car is so impressively low that the door hits even a low curb. Sounds like a small compromise on an otherwise incredible car.