McLaren 720S (Ultimate Guide) While romping around in the new McLaren 720S, things around you quickly become a blur as you accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds. Pavement markings aren’t the only lines being blurred though – thanks to the 720S, so too is the line between supercars and...
McLaren 720S
The Complete Supercar
2017 - 2023
The McLaren 720S is a tour de force of supercar technology and design, representing the zenith of McLaren's Super Series. This masterpiece is renowned for its revolutionary approach to performance and aesthetics, blending a 710-horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with a state-of-the-art carbon fiber chassis. The result is a machine that not only accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds but also boasts a top speed of 212 mph. It was the best supercar of the late 2010s, by far. McLaren introduced several notable variants, including the 720S GT3 and 720S GT3X for racing and the 765LT, the ultimate track+road monster.
The Ultimate Guide To The McLaren 720S: Every Variant, Specs, Pictures, Performance & More
Introduced in 2017, the McLaren 720S immediately set a new standard in the supercar segment, becoming the benchmark against which all high-performance sports cars are measured. Built on the success of its predecessor, the 650S, the 720S is part of McLaren’s Super Series and showcases the brand's relentless pursuit of excellence in both performance and design. This blog post delves deep into the world of the McLaren 720S, exploring its innovative platform, outstanding performance, cutting-edge design, and its influential derivatives, including the formidable 765LT.
The McLaren 720S is constructed around the Monocage II, a development of McLaren’s carbon fiber core technology. This chassis is both lighter and stronger than the frameworks used in earlier models, providing a rigid base that enhances safety and driving dynamics. The design of the 720S is striking, featuring McLaren's signature dihedral doors, and a teardrop-shaped cockpit that maximizes aerodynamic efficiency. The car's appearance is futuristic, with thin, eye-like LED headlights and extensive use of glass that not only contributes to its aesthetic appeal but also improves visibility and light inside the cabin.
The aerodynamics of the 720S are engineered to create a balance between drag reduction and downforce. Active aerodynamic elements, including a deployable rear spoiler, adapt to the driving conditions, optimizing performance whether on the track or the street. The overall design reduces turbulence and directs air efficiently across the vehicle, cooling the engine and brakes even under extreme conditions.
Powering the McLaren 720S is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that delivers rapid, seamless gear changes, allowing the car to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and achieve a top speed of 212 mph. The 720S features McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control II system, which utilizes sensors to monitor road conditions and adjust the suspension setup in real time, ensuring optimal balance and handling.
Inside, the McLaren 720S blends luxury with functionality. The interior is a high-tech haven, featuring a minimalist design that keeps the driver’s focus on the road. The centerpiece is the Folding Driver Display, which provides comprehensive driving data in full-display mode and can switch to a slimmed-down version for minimal distraction during spirited driving. The infotainment system is intuitive, offering connectivity and navigation solutions seamlessly integrated into the central console.
In 2020, McLaren introduced the 765LT, an even more extreme version of the 720S, under its "Longtail" ethos which emphasizes reduced weight, increased power, and enhanced aerodynamics. The 765LT uses a modified version of the 720S's V8, tuned to produce 755 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This power increase, coupled with a weight reduction of around 176 pounds, allows the 765LT to deliver even more explosive performance. Aerodynamically, the 765LT features an elongated body that includes a front splitter, active rear wing, and diffuser, all designed to increase downforce.
The 765LT is more track-focused but maintains enough civility for road use, making it a dual-purpose vehicle that excels in both environments. Its production is limited, enhancing its appeal as a collectible model among enthusiasts and collectors.
McLaren 720S Basics
Manufacturer: McLaren Automotive
Production: 2017–2023
Assembly: Woking, Surrey, England, UK
Designer: Frank Stephenson, Robert Melville
Body style: 2-door coupé, 2-door convertible
Layout: Rear mid-engine, RWD
Platform: MonoCage II
Doors: Butterfly doors
Engine: 4.0 L M840T twin-turbo V8
Power output: 710 hp
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
Wheelbase: 2,670 mm (105.1 in)
Length: 4,544 mm (178.9 in)
Width: 2,161 mm (85.1 in)
Height: 1,196 mm (47.1 in)
Kerb weight: 1,419 kg - 1,468 kg
Predecessor: McLaren 650S
Successor: McLaren 750S
Did You Know?
Just like the 650S, the "720" reflects the car's metric horsepower (PS), roughly equivalent to 710 bhp.
The unique, deep-set headlights were inspired by the eye sockets of a Great White Shark, giving the 720S its predatory stare.
0-60 in Less Time Than it Takes to Read This Sentence: The 720S rockets to 60 mph in a mind-bending 2.8 seconds.
"A staggering supercar that redefines the rules of performance and engagement."
Top Gear
McLaren 720S Variants
Production Models
McLaren 720S (2017 - 2023)
McLaren 720S Spider (2017 - 2023)
McLaren 765LT (2020 - 2023)
McLaren 765LT Spider (2021 - 2023)
Special Models
McLaren 720S Spider by MSO (2019)
McLaren 720S MSO Apex (2019 - 2023)
McLaren 720S Le Mans (2020 - 2023)
McLaren 720S Spa 68 Collection (2019)
McLaren 765LT Strata Theme (2022)
Daniel Ricciardo Edition 720S 2022)
Race Models
McLaren 720S GT3 (2018)
McLaren 720S GT3X (2021-2022)
McLaren 720S GT3 EVO (2023)
McLaren 720S & Derivative Models
McLaren 720S Coupe
Years: 2017 - 2023
Engine: 4.0 L twin-turbo V8
Power: 710 bhp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque: 568 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm
0-60 mph: 2.9 sec
0-124 mph: 7.8 sec
Top Speed: 212 mph
The Best Supercar on the Planet. The McLaren 720S is a sensational supercar, easily the best of the current breed. It has a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 that produces 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. It looks gorgeous too. Unrivaled chassis tuning, absurd amounts of speed, unparalleled acceleration numbers and a package that looks stunning.
McLaren 720S Spider
Years: 2017 - 2023
Engine: 4.0 L twin-turbo V8
Power: 710 bhp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque: 568 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm
0-60 mph: 2.9 sec
0-124 mph: 7.9 sec
Top Speed: 212 mph
Roadster Perfection. The latest iteration of the current 720S – monikered “Spider” is a convertible variant of the 720S which comes with a folding hard top. The Spider retains the same DNA as the Coupe. Thanks to its brilliant aero design, the Spider still achieves a remarkable top speed of 202 mph with the top folded. Nearly perfect convertible performance.
McLaren 765LT
Years: 2020 - 2023
Engine: 4.0 L twin-turbo V8
Power: 755 bhp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque: 590 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm
0-60 mph: 2.7 sec
0-124 mph: 7.2 sec
Top Speed: 205 mph
Lives up the 765LT name. The 765LT replaces the 675LT as the newest limited-production track car. As with previous LT models, weight saving is the key focus for the 765LT, losing 160+lbs compared to the 720S. For the first time McLaren has also adjusted some of the 765LT’s inner workings too. This is peak McLaren and peak performance.
McLaren 765LT Spider
Years: 2021 - 2023
Engine: 4.0 L twin-turbo V8
Power: 755 bhp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque: 590 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm
0-60 mph: 2.7 sec
0-124 mph: 7.2 sec
Top Speed: 205 mph
Meet the open-top variant of the 765LT. Like its coupe sibling, production will also be limited to 765 units. The car is powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 that's capable of hurtling the car to 124 mph in just 7.2 seconds. Turning the McLaren 765LT into the Spider only adds 49 kg to the overall weight of 1,388 kg and the spider retains most of the handling dynamics of the coupe.
McLaren 720S MSO & Special Editions
McLaren 720S Spider by MSO
2019
The 2019 McLaren 720S Spider by MSO (McLaren Special Operations) is a bespoke version of the already stunning 720S Spider, featuring unique aesthetic enhancements and custom finishes that elevate its exclusivity and craftsmanship, blending performance with personalized luxury.
McLaren 720S MSO Apex
2019 - 2023
A group of cars designed to celebrate the high cornering speeds that McLaren cars have achieved at some of the most iconic corners at European racetracks. The corners? Eau Rouge, the Mobil 1 Kurve, the Abbey, the Signes and the Ascari Chicane (90 mph).
McLaren 720S Le Mans
2020 - 2023
The MSO X is the result of applying as much 570S GT4 racing car thinking – and stripping-out – to a numberplate-wearing 570S as MSO can get away with. This is no mere application of a fixed rear wing, a McLaren F1-inspired roof snorkel, and some debatable paint schemes.
McLaren 720S Spa 68 Collection
2019
3 Cars. To commemorate 50 years since Bruce McLaren secured the first Grand Prix victory for McLaren, the company will build a limited edition 720S Spa 68 Collection. Brussels commissioned three of the cars. Feature a Bespoke Anniversary Orange paint job to match the car that won the 1968 Belgian Grand Prix.
McLaren 765LT Strata Theme
2022
MSO claims they drained 450 hours into designing this paint scheme for the 765LT, decorating the car with skyline-inspired shapes and featuring their F1 colors with an Azores Orange rear end. Extras include painted brake calipers (Volcano Red in the rear, Azores Orance in the front) and Memphis Red interior accents.
Daniel Ricciardo Edition 720S
2022
The Daniel Ricciardo Edition 720S features a striking Papaya Spark and Burton Blue livery – a nod to Ricciardo's 2021 McLaren F1 car. Unique design elements include carbon fiber sills inscribed with Ricciardo's signature, his race number "3" etched into the doors, and a "One of Three" plaque.
McLaren 720S Race Cars
McLaren 720S GT3
2018 - 2022
The 720S GT3 elevates the extreme performance of the Super Series model to world-class track pace – accessible to professional and amateur drivers alike. The latest GT3 challenger is undergoing an intensive track testing programme throughout 2018, and will compete with customer teams at demanding GT races.
McLaren 720S GT3X
2021 - 2022
This otherworldly creation is a track-only car based on the 720S GT3. However, it isn't homologated for racing. That means McLaren were not bound by restrictions and were able to wring out every ounce of performance from the 720S GT3X. It is not eligible for the GT3 racing series but McLaren will still build one.
McLaren 720S GT3 EVO
2023
In 2023, McLaren launched an EVO for the 720S GT3. The EVO saw improvements made on aerodynamics and suspension, aimed at improving the car's handling in traffic. The car was available to be purchased brand new, or as an upgrade kit for existing 720S GT3 cars. The perfect track day weapon?
"One of the most complete and exhilarating supercars ever made."
Car and Driver
Our Favorite McLaren 720S Images
The McLaren 720S features a radically sculpted design focused on aerodynamic efficiency, with teardrop shaping, dramatic air channels, deep-set 'eye socket' headlights, and visibility-enhancing glass elements, creating a stunning blend of aggressive performance and futuristic beauty.