2018 McLaren Speedtail

Sold for $2,700,000 at 2022 RM Sothebys : Amelia Island.
The McLaren Speedtail was built around a lightweight carbon fiber tub reinforced with titanium strands and clothed with a dramatic 'teardrop' shape surmounted by a one-piece glass canopy. The elongated carbon fiber bodywork is underpinned by an adjustable, multi-link suspension composed of aluminum alloy. Aerodynamic elements include the deformable carbon fiber ailerons and the distinctive static wheel covers. There are bespoke Pirelli tires, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a regenerative braking system. The interior contains the McLaren F1's signature three-person seating configuration and vertical-dihedral doors. Power is sourced from a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, an evolution of the McLaren P1's powerplant, with a revised piston design along with enhanced cylinder head cooling, and an output of 750 horsepower. The electric motor and battery technology are developments of McLaren's Formula E technology group and delivers an additional 312 horsepower. The dielectric cooled and insulated 1.647-kWh battery was, at its debut, the most power-dense unit ever fitted to a production vehicle. The vehicle's total output is 1,035 horsepower, endowing the Speedtail with a reported top speed of 250 mph. On December 19th of 2019, the McLaren Speedtail prototype reached 250 mph over 30 times during testing at the Johnny Bohmer Proving Grounds in Orlando, Florida. Thus, the Speedstail is the fastest, most aerodynamic, and most technologically advanced McLaren ever made.

This particular example is the 87th example produced and is finished in the MSO color combination of Heritage Gloss Steel Blue over Semi-Aniline Metallic Blue Silver leather (an homage to F1 chassis number 036 originally commissioned by former McLaren majority shareholder and company director, Mansour Ojjeh). It was ordered new by the consignor via Miller McLaren of Greenwich, Connecticut in March 2020, and was the second Speedtail imported to the United States. Along with bespoke optional equipment from McLaren Special Operations, the MSRP was £2,011,500.

The silver-painted brake calipers are housed within the matching set of Gloss Silver-finished wheels. The distinctive 'speed covers' on the front wheels are fashioned of 1,000-strand gloss visual carbon fiber, which exactly matches the appointment of the engine bay surround and rear contrast panel. The exterior badges are from machined aluminum, as is most of the brightwork. There is a carbon fiber steering wheel with contrasting McLaren orange leather, a suite of five digital displays, and a pair of billet titanium paddle shifters. Additionally, there is a five-piece fitted luggage set finished in carbon fiber and leather matching the interior theme of the car.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jun 2022