2014 McLaren 650S Coupé McLaren Automotive will return to the International Geneva Motor Show this year with its fastest, most engaging, best equipped and most beautiful series-production supercar yet. The McLaren 650S joins the range as an additional model alongside the 12C and sold-out McLaren P1™, and learns from both...
McLaren 650S
An Apex Predator
2014 - 2017
The McLaren 650S, introduced in 2014, is a critical milestone in the evolution of McLaren's road-going supercar offerings. Positioned as a successor to the MP4-12C, the 650S forms part of McLaren's Super Series and represents a blend of track-focused performance with the daily usability of a luxury sports car. It many way the 650S fixed the issues with the 12C and made McLaren more of a competitor. Available in both coupe and spider, there were also some special 650S based cars like the 675LT.
The Ultimate Guide To The McLaren 650S: Every Variant, Specs, Pictures, Performance & More
The introduction of the McLaren 650S in 2014 marked a significant evolution in the prestigious lineage of McLaren’s road-legal supercars. Building on the platform of its predecessor, the 12C, the 650S was part of McLaren’s Super Series, featuring enhanced performance, refined aerodynamics, and more aggressive styling. This detailed blog post explores the McLaren 650S, its development, performance characteristics, as well as its sub-models and special editions, including the remarkable 675LT.
The McLaren 650S was unveiled at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show and was available in both coupe and spider variants. The design was heavily inspired by the then-flagship P1, especially noticeable in the front bumper and headlights, which not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal but also improved the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle. The 650S offered a more aggressive stance and a significantly revised look compared to the 12C, signaling McLaren's intent to refine and push the capabilities of its already successful platform.
At the core of the 650S's performance was the upgraded 3.8-liter twin-turbo M838T V8 engine, now producing 641 horsepower (650 PS, hence the name) and 500 lb-ft of torque. This engine was coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that enabled the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just under three seconds, with a top speed of 207 mph. The 650S also featured Proactive Chassis Control, carbon-ceramic brakes as standard, and an improved version of the McLaren Active Suspension system, enhancing both the handling and comfort of the drive.
The McLaren 650S's bodywork was not just about visual appeal; it was meticulously designed to manage airflow for both cooling purposes and to improve downforce, which was 24 percent greater than its predecessor at 150 mph. The integrated front splitter contributed to increased downforce, aiding in high-speed stability, while the dihedral doors were designed to channel air efficiently to the side radiators.
Inside, the 650S boasted a driver-focused cockpit, with luxury features and advanced technology improving both comfort and functionality. The interior was lined with high-quality materials, including leather and Alcantara, and featured an updated infotainment system that provided enhanced connectivity and navigation options. Despite its track-ready capabilities, the 650S did not compromise on everyday usability and comfort.
In response to demand for an even more extreme version of the 650S, McLaren introduced the 675LT in 2015, a lighter, faster, and more track-focused variant. The “LT” stands for “Longtail,” a name inspired by the iconic McLaren F1 GTR Longtail. The 675LT featured a more powerful iteration of the twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 666 horsepower, and extensive use of carbon fiber to reduce its weight by about 100 kg compared to the 650S. Only 500 units of the 675LT coupe were produced, making it a rare gem in the supercar world.
The 675LT also boasted significant aerodynamic enhancements, a stiffer suspension setup, and a more aggressive exhaust note. Its performance was further enhanced by the Super-Lightweight wheels and Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo R tires, making it one of the most exhilarating McLarens to drive on both road and track.
McLaren 650S Basics
Manufacturer: McLaren Automotive
Production: 2014–2017
Assembly: Woking, Surrey, England
Designer: Frank Stephenson
Body style: 2-door coupé, 2-door spider
Layout: Rear mid-engine, RWD
Doors: Dihedral
Engine: 3.8 L twin-turbo M838T V8
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
Wheelbase: 2,670 mm
Length: 4,511 mm (650S), 4,547 mm (675 LT)
Width: 1,895 mm (650S), 2,093 mm (675 LT)
Height: 1,199 mm (650S), 1,189 mm (675 LT)
Kerb weight: 1,428 kg - 1,469 kg
Predecessor: McLaren 12C
Successor: McLaren 720S
650S Performance
Power: 666 hp at 7,100 rpm
Torque: 516 ft/lbs at 5,500 rpm
0–62 mph: 2.9 s
0–124 mph: 7.9 s
0 - 186 mph: 25.9 s
0 - 200 mph: 31.2 s
1/4 mile: 10.3 s @ 141.1 mph
Top Speed: 330kph (205mph)
Did You Know?
The "650" in the name represents the horsepower output in PS (metric horsepower), roughly equivalent to 641 bhp.
The 650S uses a carbon fiber "monocell" chassis, making it exceptionally light and rigid - a key to its incredible performance.
McLaren's Formula 1 experience inspired features like 'Brake Steer', a system that subtly brakes the inside rear wheel during cornering for improved agility.
To maintain the 650S's sleek lines, the door handles are integrated into airflow channels on the side of the car - press a button and they pop out.
The 675LT was a track-focused version of the 650S - Lighter, more powerful, and sporting even more aggressive aerodynamics.
"A benchmark supercar that seamlessly blends ferocious performance with surprising everyday usability."
Car and Driver
McLaren 650S Variants
Production Models
McLaren 650S (2014 – 2017)
McLaren 650S Spider (2014 – 2016)
McLaren 625C (2015 - 2016)
McLaren 675LT (2015 - 2017)
McLaren 675LT Spider (2016 - 2017)
Special Models
McLaren MSO Coupe (2014)
McLaren MSO Spider (2014)
McLaren 650S Can-Am (2015 -2016)
McLaren 650S Le Mans (2015 - 2016)
McLaren MSO 650S (2014)
McLaren MSO Carbon Series (2017)
McLaren MSO HS (2016)
Race Models
McLaren 650S Sprint (2015)
McLaren 650S GT3 (2015)
McLaren 650S Models
McLaren 650S
Years: 2014 - 2017
Engine: 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8
Power: 641 bhp @ 7,250 rpm
Torque: 500 ft lbs @ 6,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.0 sec
0-124 mph: 8.4 sec
Top Speed: 207 mph
When 12C sales took a nosedive, McLaren went to work quickly creating its successor, the 650S. The front bumper gives the McLaren 650S a dramatic, yet clean appearance that makes the 12C look plain. It is also quicker, more assertive and dynamically better than the 12C. At 150 mph, downforce levels were 24 percent higher than the 12C. The steering reveals more feel than the 12C and the engine also sounds (much) better too.
McLaren 650S Spider
Years: 2014 - 2017
Engine: 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8
Power: 641 bhp @ 7,250 rpm
Torque: 500 ft lbs @ 6,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.0 sec
0-124 mph: 8.6 sec
Top Speed: 204 mph
Mechanically identical to the 650S Coupé, fitted with the M838T twin turbo V8 engine, producing 641 bhp and 500 lb ft. This means a sub 3.0 second sprint to 60 mph, identical to the Coupé. It drives just as well as the coupe, but the open top just gives the car so much more drama and it makes it feel more special. The weight penalty for the convertible is only 80lbs, which is nothing in the scheme of things.
McLaren 625C
Years: 2015 - 2016
Engine: 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8
Power: 616 bhp @ 7,250 rpm
Torque: 442 ft lbs @ 3,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.3 sec
0-124 mph: 9.1 sec
Top Speed: 204 mph
Woking introduced a road-legal iteration specifically tailored for the Asian market. Dubbed 625C, with "C" standing for "Club", the 650S-based model represented McLaren’s idea of a sports car that focuses on day-to-day usability and comfort without compromising the performance and race-bred feel of the original car. The 625C is fitted with new dampers and a revised suspension setup, with softer spring rates.
McLaren 675LT
Years: 2015 - 2017
Engine: 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8
Power: 666 bhp @ 7,100 rpm
Torque: 515 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm
0-60 mph: 2.9 sec
0-124 mph: 7.9 sec
Top Speed: 205 mph
A lighter, faster and more hardcore version of the McLaren 650S. Track-focused but still absolutely scintillating on the road. Nothing less than one of the greatest automotive experiences ever. Top Gear said: "Nothing less than one of the greatest automotive experiences ever. The bald performance figures tell some of the story...deliver the most focused driving experience imaginable".
McLaren 675LT Spider
Years: 2016 - 2017
Engine: 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8
Power: 666 bhp @ 7,100 rpm
Torque: 515 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm
0-60 mph: 2.9 sec
0-124 mph: 7.9 sec
Top Speed: 205 mph
Nearly Perfect Open Sports Car. With the same 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 as the Coupe with its 666hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Reaching 60 mph from a standstill takes just 2.9 seconds, making it a tenth of a second faster the 488 Spider. Game on. EVO magazine said it best: Just as talented as the fixed-roof 675LT, the Spider is fast, fun and involving. And already sold out...". Maybe a used one then?
McLaren 650S MSO & Special Editions
McLaren 650S Can-Am
2015 - 2016
50 Cars. Made to honor McLaren’s five back-to-back drivers’ titles in the Canadian-American Challenge Cup from 1967 to 1971. The 650S Can-Am features unique carbon fibre bodywork, Can-Am-inspired forged alloy wheels, a bespoke polished stainless steel exhaust, and Papaya Spark, Mars Red and Onyx Black exterior colour schemes.
McLaren 650S Le Mans
2015 - 2016
50 Cars. Built to celebrate the 20th anniversary of McLaren’s win at the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 650S Le Mans pays tribute to the McLaren F1 GTR. A comprehensive design was created in consultation with Peter Stevens, the man who designed the McLaren F1 alongside Gordon Murray. It also has unique lightweight wheels inspired by the motorsport-specification rims.
McLaren MSO 650S Coupe
2014
50 Cars. Based on the MSO 650S Coupe Concept, the MSO 650S is a limited edition restricted to just 50 cars, with a myriad of styling and performance upgrades. Carbon fibre detailing includes extended MSO door ‘blades’ to enhance airflow and a more aggressive rear diffuser. It wears 10-spoke ultra-lightweight alloy wheels held in place with titanium wheel bolts.
McLaren MSO 650S Spider
2014
Just 50 examples of the MSO 650S will be available globally, available in either a Coupe or Spider bodystyle. The production car made its global debut, in Spider form, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the Supercar Paddock. The exterior design is finished with a set of Palladium colored 10-spoke Super Lightweight alloy wheels, with a unique diamond cut effect to the inside edge of each spoke.
McLaren MSO Carbon Series
2017
25 Cars. Based on the 675LT Spider, the Carbon Series LT was produced in response to requests from McLaren customers captivated by the visual carbon fibre bodied McLaren P1. Staying true to the ‘Longtail’ ethos, the MSO Carbon Series LT was developed with a focus on light weight and optimised aerodynamic performance. Applying gloss carbon fibre to the entire body of the car further extends its appeal to bring a brutal beauty to the existing 675LT Spider body.
McLaren MSO HS
2016
25 Cars. The 679-horsepower MSO HS (for High Sport) and it’s ridiculous. For context, the McLaren MSO HS sits squarely between the McLaren 675LT and the mighty McLaren P1. The MSO HS is based on the McLaren 650S and is limited to just 25 example. The biggest differences appear in the body. The roof, hood, front bumper, and wing – which is inspired by the McLaren P1 GTR – are all made out of carbon fiber. We love the F1 inspired roof air-scoop.
McLaren 650S Race Cars
McLaren 650S Sprint
2015
A track-oriented version of the standard 650S, specifically engineered for an enhanced racing experience without the full commitment to professional motorsport regulations that the GT3 variant adheres to. Launched to cater to the avid track day enthusiast, the Sprint model includes several performance upgrades over the standard 650S. The Sprint retains the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, although it's tuned for better responsiveness and durability under high-stress.
McLaren 650S GT3
2015
Introduced to compete in various GT3 category events around the world, featuring extensive modifications to meet strict racing standards. The 650S GT3 boasts a significantly revised aerodynamic package, including a large rear wing, a prominent front splitter, and additional dive planes to provide enhanced downforce and better handling at high speeds. The car's engine is tuned specifically for racing and is coupled with a six-speed sequential motorsport gearbox.
"The 650S is a masterpiece of automotive engineering, a symphony of speed and precision."
Autocar
Our Favorite McLaren 650S Images
The 650S was a stunning update to the 12C, a more modern and aggressive design.