McLaren MP4-12C Spider Makes its Japanese Debut | McLaren

McLaren MP4-12C Spider | McLaren MP4-12C Spider

MP4-12C Spider Makes Its Debut in Japan

McLaren's super sports car,MP4-12Cthe open-top version of the MP4-12C, the MP4-12C Spider, has finally made its first appearance in Japan. It was unveiled at the "McLaren Tokyo" showroom in Akasaka, Tokyo.

Text by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)

No Compromise in Open-Top Driving

In June of this year, marking the second year since the debut of the McLaren MP4-12C, its open-top variant,McLaren MP4-12C Spiderwas announced. Its world premiere took place in August at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance held in Monterey, on the west coast of the United States.Pebble Beach Concours d'EleganceJust two months later, it has arrived in Japan.

As previously reported by OPENERS, the MP4-12C Spider is equipped with the same V8 3.8-liter twin-turbo engine as the 2013 model of the coupe, the MP4-12C. It delivers a maximum output of 625ps at 7,500rpm and a peak torque of 600Nm (approx. 61.2kgm) between 3,000 and 7,000rpm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The notable roof is a retractable hardtop, not a soft top. It takes a mere 17 seconds to open or close, and can be operated while driving at speeds up to 30 km/h. The body also utilizes the same carbon fiber (CFRP) monocoque shell as the coupe model. Designed from the outset with open-top capability in mind, it required minimal structural reinforcement.

Of course, it features passive roll-over protection to safeguard the driver and passenger in case of a dangerous situation like a spin or rollover – a system where rollover bars hidden behind the headrests deploy instantly to protect occupants. Despite this, the total weight increase compared to the coupe model is only 40kg.

This slight increase is primarily due to the weight of the opening and closing mechanism. Consequently, the 0-100 km/h acceleration remains the same as the coupe at 3.1 seconds. The top speed is also comparable, reaching 329 km/h (compared to the coupe's 333 km/h).

At the announcement event in Japan, Antony Sheriff, Managing Director of McLaren Automotive, stated regarding the MP4-12C Spider: "Its greatest feature is its ability to deliver the same driving experience as the coupe. I want you to feel the 300 km/h wind directly. McLaren always pursues two goals: first, to deliver the best quality cars, and second, to continuously enhance the owner's experience."he said.

Deliveries in Japan are scheduled to begin in early 2013, with a price of 30 million yen.