McLaren 12C#Motorsports

The McLaren Formula One team has used the "MP4" prefix as its chassis designation since 1981. This acronym stands for "McLaren Project 4", which originated from the merger of Ron Dennis' organisation, Project Four Racing, with McLaren. The "12" in the name refers to McLaren's internal "Vehicle Performance" index, which evaluates cars based on four key criteria: power, weight, emissions, and aerodynamics. The "C" in the name signifies that the car features a carbon structure.{{sfnp|Anema|2010|page=182}} In 2012, McLaren dropped the "MP4" part of its name, simplifying it to "12C".{{cite web | last=Frankel | first=Andrew | title=McLaren MP4-12C Spider | magazine=Motor Sport | date=24 October 2012 | url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/road-cars/mclaren-mp4-12c-spider/ | mode = cs2 | access-date=2 July 2024}}

File: Ferrari 360 Modena (GH-F360) front (cropped).JPGs as test mules to develop the MP4-12C.]]

McLaren began developing the 12C in 2005.{{cite web | title=Full details: McLaren MP4-12C | website=Independent Online | date=14 February 2011 | url=https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/cars/full-details-mclaren-mp4-12c-1026070 | access-date=5 July 2024|mode=cs2}} In June 2007, the magazine Autocar reported that the McLaren's upcoming sports car would be independently built by the company, stating that this would give the company "a chance to re-establish [its] credentials at the top-end of the market".{{cite magazine | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240630145506/https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/mclaren/uncovered-mclaren-f2 | archive-date=30 June 2024 | url-status=live | title=Uncovered: the McLaren F2 | magazine=Autocar | date=27 June 2007 | url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/mclaren/uncovered-mclaren-f2 | access-date=30 June 2024|first=Hilton|last=Holloway|mode=cs2}} The upcoming sports car would mark McLaren's return to producing a production car since the F1, which ceased production in 1998.{{cite magazine | last=Pollard | first=Tim | title= McLaren MP4-12C {{!}} Mclaren P11 {{!}} News and photos | magazine=Car| date=9 September 2009 | url=https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/first-official-pictures/mclaren/mclaren-mp4-12c-2011-the-first-official-p11-story/ | mode=cs2 |access-date=2 July 2024}} To develop the upcoming sports car, McLaren used modified versions of existing vehicles from other manufacturers as test mules. The first prototype, called the MV1, was a Ferrari 360 that featured a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine and side vents for additional cooling, which were incorporated into the production model. A second prototype, the MV2, was a modified Ultima GTR used to test the braking system and suspension components. A third prototype, the MV3, was another modified Ferrari 360 used to test the exhaust system. McLaren subsequently developed two in-house prototypes, the CP1 and CP2, which featured a "MonoCell" monocoque and were used to test heat management and performance.{{cite web | last=Petrány | first=Máté | title=McLaren Automotive secretly used these two Ferraris to develop its first car | magazine=Road & Track | date=7 September 2016 | url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/car-design/a30686/mclaren-automotive-started-with-two-ferraris-and-an-ultima/ | mode=cs2 | access-date=1 July 2024 | archive-date=31 January 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230131000338/https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/car-design/a30686/mclaren-automotive-started-with-two-ferraris-and-an-ultima/ | url-status=live }}

McLaren produced over fifty experimental prototypes and tested in various regions to evaluate their performance in different environments. The testing locations included hot weather conditions in Bahrain, Arizona, and Nevada, cold weather conditions in the Arctic and Sweden, high-altitude conditions in South Africa and endurance testing on various circuits and roads in Europe. The head of testing for the programme, Geoff Grose, noted that the development team established bases at Idiada in northern Spain and the Prototipo facility near Nardo in Italy, where they conducted 24-hour testing sessions as well as 18-hour sessions from 8{{nbsp}}am to 2{{nbsp}}am the next day.

In 2008, Frank Stephenson was appointed as the lead design director of McLaren,{{cite magazine|title=McLaren P11 |issn= 0043-4779|date=March 2009|page=28|mode=cs2|magazine=Wheels}}{{cite news | title=McLaren hires ex-Fiat design head Stephenson | newspaper=Automotive News Europe | first=Tom | last=Armitage | url-access=subscription | mode=cs2 | date=30 August 2008 | url=https://europe.autonews.com/article/20080901/ANE03/808309991/mclaren-hires-ex-fiat-design-head-stephenson | access-date=1 July 2024 | archive-date=1 July 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701032828/https://europe.autonews.com/article/20080901/ANE03/808309991/mclaren-hires-ex-fiat-design-head-stephenson | url-status=live }} becoming chief of the project late in its development. Stephenson made some adjustments to the design of its headlights, front bumper, and interior elements. His contributions were mainly small alterations, as the overall design of the car was already well-established at that point.{{cite news | last=Dron | first=Will | title=Online exclusive: Q&A with Frank Stephenson, McLaren's chief designer | newspaper=The Sunday Times | date=15 November 2013 | url=https://www.driving.co.uk/news/interview/online-exclusive-qa-with-frank-stephenson-mclarens-chief-designer/ | access-date=1 July 2024 | mode=cs2 | archive-date=1 July 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701034702/https://www.driving.co.uk/news/interview/online-exclusive-qa-with-frank-stephenson-mclarens-chief-designer/ | url-status=live }} The final design of the MP4-12C was unveiled online in September 2009,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-telegraph/150412608/|title=McLaren reveals supercar|newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|date=12 September 2009|access-date=1 July 2024|location=London, England|mode=cs2|page=82|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=1 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701154804/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-telegraph/150412608/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-independent/150412900/|title=We need UK talent on the driving seat for the car industry to get back on track|date=13 September 2009|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=1 July 2024|newspaper=The Independent|mode=cs2|page=70}}{{cite web | title=McLaren MP4-12C revealed—photos | website=CNET | date=9 September 2009 | url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/pictures/mclaren-mp4-12c-revealed-photos/9/ | access-date=1 July 2024 | first=Antuan | last=Goodwin | mode=cs2 | archive-date=1 July 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701043743/https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/pictures/mclaren-mp4-12c-revealed-photos/9/ | url-status=live }} with its physical debut occurring at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2010.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-telegraph/150418559/|title=McLaren to announce dealers at Goodwood|newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|date=29 May 2010|page=110|access-date=1 July 2024|mode=cs2|via=Newspapers.com|location=London, England|archive-date=1 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701092358/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-telegraph/150418559/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/times-colonist/150418622/|title=Drivers admit loss of control due to sneezing|date=11 June 2010|page=61|newspaper=Times Colonist|location=Victoria, British Columbia|mode=cs2|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=1 July 2024|archive-date=1 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701092831/https://www.newspapers.com/article/times-colonist/150418622/|url-status=live}}{{cite magazine | last=Pollard | first=Tim | title=McLaren MP4-12C {{!}} Goodwood {{!}} 2010 Festival of Speed | magazine=Car | date=30 June 2010 | url=https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/first-official-pictures/mclaren/mclaren-mp4-12c-at-the-2010-goodwood-festival-of-speed/ | access-date=1 July 2024 | mode=cs2 | archive-date=1 July 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701093510/https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/first-official-pictures/mclaren/mclaren-mp4-12c-at-the-2010-goodwood-festival-of-speed/ | url-status=live }} Following McLaren's investment of £50 million into its production facility at Woking, Surrey, which could build approximately 4,000 cars annually,{{cite news | title=McLaren swaps racetrack for freeway to chase down Ferrari | work=Bloomberg News| mode = cs2|url-access=subscription | date=18 November 2011 | url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2011-11-18/mclaren-aims-to-chase-down-ferrari-with-265-000-street-legal-model-cars | access-date=3 July 2024}} the official manufacture of the MP4-12C began on 2 February 2011.{{cite magazine | title=First MP4-12C enters production | magazine=Top Gear | date=2 February 2011 | url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/first-mp4-12c-enters-production | publisher=BBC | access-date=1 July 2024 | mode=cs2 | archive-date=1 July 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701154815/https://www.topgear.com/car-news/first-mp4-12c-enters-production | url-status=live }}{{cite magazine | last=Kurczewski | first=Nick | title=McLaren MP4-12C enters production | magazine=Road & Track | date=2 February 2011 | url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/a379/mclaren-mp4-12c-enters-production-19621/ | access-date=1 July 2024|mode=cs2}} David Cameron, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, officially opened the building on 18 November 2011.{{cite news | title=Prime Minister David Cameron hails British Formula One team McLaren as an inspiration in difficult times | newspaper=The Daily Telegraph | first=Tom | last=Cary | date=17 November 2011 | url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/mclaren/8897640/Prime-Minister-David-Cameron-hails-British-Formula-One-team-McLaren-as-an-inspiration-in-difficult-times.html | url-access=subscription | location = London, England | access-date=6 July 2024 | mode=cs2}}{{cite news | last=Wachman | first=Richard | title=Cameron opens McLaren's £50m sports car plant | newspaper=The Guardian | date=17 November 2011 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2011/nov/17/mclaren-new-sports-car-factory-david-cameron | mode=cs2 | access-date=6 July 2024|location=London, England}}{{cite web | title=McLaren's Woking supercar factory opened by David Cameron | publisher=BBC|mode=cs2 | date=17 November 2011 | url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-surrey-15772873 | access-date=6 July 2024}}

File:McLaren MP4-12C – Heckansicht (2), 30. August 2012, Düsseldorf.jpg

The 12C incorporates a carbon fibre structure called the "MonoCell". Compared to traditional riveted alloy structures, the MonoCell's weight is reduced and its stiffness is improved. The design's cost-effectiveness, swift production and flexibility made it suitable for adoption in other McLaren models.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-telegraph/150505593/|title=From F1 to the road|newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|date=26 November 2011|page=142|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=3 July 2024|mode=cs2|location=London, England}} The company invested £127.7 million into the MonoCell. Manufactured by Carbo Tech in Salzburg, Austria,{{cite magazine | title=McLaren invests in carbon tech | magazine=Autocar | mode =cs2 |date=1 June 2010 | url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/mclaren-invests-carbon-tech | access-date=3 July 2024}} the carbon fibre structure weighs {{convert|176|lb|order=flip}}.{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-telegraph/150552067/|title=The facts: McLaren MP4-12C|newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|mode=cs2|location=London, England|date=20 March 2010|page=131|access-date=3 July 2024|via=Newspapers.com}}{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-boston-globe/150552193/|title=Turning heads in a 2013 McLaren MP4-12C Spider|newspaper=The Boston Globe|location=Boston, Massachusetts|date=11 August 2013|access-date=3 July 2024|page=J1|via=Newspapers.com|mode=cs2}}{{cite journal | last=Stewart | first=Richard | title=Rebounding automotive industry welcome news for FRP | journal=Reinforced Plastics | volume=55 | issue=1 | date=2011 | doi=10.1016/S0034-3617(11)70036-4 | pages=38–44|mode=cs2}} The advances in carbon fibre fabrication reduced the time required to produce a MonoCell from 3,000 hours for the F1 and 500 hours for the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, to four hours for the 12C.{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/national-post/150625751/|title=Fabric shifts from racing to road|newspaper=National Post|location=Toronto, Ontario|date=15 April 2011|access-date=4 July 2024|page=36|first=Norman|last=Mayersohn|mode=cs2|via=Newspapers.com}}{{sfnp|Rehkopf|2011|page=6}}{{cite news | last=Mayersohn | first=Norman | title=McLaren cuts price of its carbon-fiber menu | date=8 April 2011| newspaper= The New York Times | mode =cs2 | url-access=subscription | location = New York, New York |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/10/automobiles/10CARBON.html | language=en-US | access-date=4 July 2024 }} The development of the MonoCell also created approximately 100 new jobs, both in the construction of the new facility and in the production of the monocoque. Carbo Tech went on to manufacture the MonoCell for McLaren cars for over eight years, making this the world's largest carbon fibre order for series-produced cars.{{cite magazine | title=McLaren orders carbon monocoques | magazine=The Engineer | mode =cs2 | date=28 May 2010 | url=https://www.theengineer.co.uk/content/news/mclaren-orders-carbon-monocoques/ | access-date=3 July 2024}}

{{Quote box|

| quote = Working with McLaren Automotive in taking this fundamental engineering step in carbon-fibre engineering and production will, we believe, enable carbon technology to establish itself ever more in motor-vehicle production.

| source = — Karl Wagner, Carbo Tech CEO

| width = 38%

|align= right

}}

The 12C is a sports car{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-independent/150630103/|title=From a Formula One circuit to a public highway near you|newspaper=The Independent|mode=cs2|location=London, England|date=28 March 2010|page=90|access-date=4 July 2024|via=Newspapers.com}}{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/sunday-telegraph/150630500/|title=McLaren wins £260M cash call|newspaper=Sunday Telegraph|mode=cs2|location=London, England|date=25 July 2010|page=35|access-date=4 July 2024|via=Newspapers.com}} with the body style of a two-door coupe.{{cite magazine | title=McLaren 12C review | magazine=Top Gear | publisher=BBC | date=5 February 2019 | url=https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/mclaren/12c | access-date=4 July 2024|mode=cs2}}{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-leader-post/150641800/|title=McLaren built to race, but ready for the streets|newspaper=The Leader-Post|mode=cs2|location=Regina, Saskatchewan|date=24 May 2013|page=43|access-date=4 July 2024|via=Newspapers.com}}{{sfnp|Anema|2010|page=178}} It has dihedral doors,{{cite news | last=Cheney | mode =cs2|first=Peter | title=In pictures: Inside a McLaren supercar | newspaper=The Globe and Mail | date=28 June 2012 | url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/culture/in-pictures-inside-a-mclaren-supercar/article4374516/ | access-date=5 July 2024}}{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/fort-worth-star-telegram/150668471/|title=McLaren Dallas unveils MP4-12C|newspaper=Fort Worth Star-Telegram|location=Fort Worth, Texas|date=2 October 2010|page=Z13|mode=cs2|access-date=4 July 2024|via=Newspapers.com}} and it has a rear-wheel drive layout with a longitudinally-placed mid-engine.{{cite magazine | last=Loh | first=Edward | mode=cs2 | title=2012 McLaren MP4-12C first drive | magazine=Motor Trend | date=14 February 2011 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2012-mclaren-mp4-12c-drive/ | access-date=4 July 2024}}{{cite magazine | title=McLaren MP4-12C | first=David|last=Vivian|magazine=Evo| date=12 October 2009 | mode = cs2 | url=https://www.evo.co.uk/mclaren/mp4-12c/10622/mclaren-mp4-12c | access-date=5 July 2024}} The 12C features a double wishbone and hydraulic suspension, the latter referred to as the ProActive Chassis Control.{{cite magazine | last=Vaughn | first=Mark | title=McLaren MP4-12C: Built for fast fun | mode=cs2|magazine=Autoweek | date=10 May 2012 | url=https://www.autoweek.com/drives/a1962591/mclaren-mp4-12c-built-fast-fun/ | access-date=5 July 2024}}{{cite news | last=Dyer | first=Ezra | mode=cs2 | location = New York, New York | title=Accused of understatement, but now acquitted | newspaper=The New York Times | date=3 August 2012 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/05/automobiles/autoreviews/accused-of-understatement-but-now-acquitted.html | access-date=5 July 2024}}{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-telegraph/150678349/|title=It's been emotional|newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London, England|date=20 October 2010|page=136|mode=cs2|access-date=4 July 2024|via=Newspapers.com}} The car uses rack-and-pinion and electric power steering. The standard front brakes of the car feature a four-piston fixed calliper configuration, paired with a two-piece front rotor.{{cite web | last=Edmunds | first=Dan | title=2012 McLaren MP4-12C: Suspension walkaround | publisher=Edmunds | date=6 September 2010 | url=https://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/track-tests/2012-mclaren-mp4-12c-suspension-walkaround.html | access-date=5 July 2024|mode=cs2}} The 12C uses a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine codenamed "M838T",{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-hamilton-spectator/150682873/|title=McLaren Automotive introduces the MP4-12C|newspaper=The Hamilton Spectator|location=Hamilton, Ontario|date=17 September 2009|page=57|access-date=5 July 2024|mode=cs2|via=Newspapers.com}}{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-ottawa-citizen/150695142/|title=New roadster is a civilized beast|newspaper=The Ottawa Citizen|location=Ottawa, Ontario|date=5 August 2011|page=35|access-date=5 July 2024|mode=cs2|via=Newspapers.com}} which was produced by Ricardo PLC in West Sussex, England.{{sfnp | Rudnick | 2013 | page=791}}{{cite web | title=McLaren deal spurs Ricardo expansion | publisher=Institution of Mechanical Engineers | date=15 January 2014 | url=https://www.imeche.org/news/news-article/mclaren-deal-spurs-ricardo-expansion | access-date=6 July 2024}} It produces a power output of {{convert|616|PS|kW|order=flip}} at 7,500 revolutions per minute (rpm) and a torque output of {{convert|443|lbft|order=flip}} at 3,000{{nbsp}}rpm,{{cite magazine | title= 2014 McLaren MP4-12C 2dr conv Spider features and specs | magazine=Car and Driver | date=14 May 2019 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/mclaren/mp4-12c/specs | access-date=5 July 2024}} sufficient to give the car a {{cvt|0-97|kph|mph|0|abbr=on}} acceleration time of 3.1 seconds and a maximum speed of {{convert|207|mph|kph|order=flip|abbr=on}}.{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-independent/150701887/|title=Wind thrill factor|newspaper=The Independent|date=2 December 2012|page=143|mode=cs2|via=Newspapers.com|location=London, England}}{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-day/150702146/|title=McLaren 12C Spider: an addictive arachnid|newspaper=The Day|date=5 October 2013|page=29|mode=cs2|via=Newspapers.com|location=New London, Connecticut}}{{cite web | last=Goy | first=Alex | title=McLaren 12C: Hunting the Italians | website=CNET|mode=cs2 | date=15 August 2013 | url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/mclaren-12c-hunting-the-italians/ | access-date=5 July 2024}} The car's transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch manufactured by Graziano called the SSG.{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-los-angeles-times/150756939/|title=2012 McLaren MP4-12C|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|date=31 May 2012|page=16|via=Newspapers.com|location=Los Angeles, California|mode=cs2}}{{NoteTag|Acronym for "seamless-shift gearbox"{{cite magazine | last=Kuah | first=Ian | title=2012 McLaren MP4-12C first drive | magazine=Motor Trend | date=8 September 2011 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/epcp-1110-2012-mclaren-mp4-12c/ | access-date=6 July 2024|mode=cs2}}{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-gazette/150756124/|title=F1-inspired and ready for the road|newspaper=The Gazette|mode=cs2|location=Montreal, Quebec|via=Newspapers.com|date=14 April 2012|page=97}}}} Its fuel economy rating is {{convert|279|g/km}},{{cite web | last=Smith | first=Giles | title=McLaren MP4 12C | website=The Times | url-access=subscription | date=31 March 2012 | url=https://www.thetimes.com/sport/formula-one/article/mclaren-mp4-12c-7nghk0kjg8h | access-date=16 September 2024 | mode=cs2 }}{{cite news|title=Woking ist nicht Maranello|trans-title=Woking is not Maranello|newspaper=Die Presse|date=August 17, 2012|url=https://www.diepresse.com/1280069/mclaren-woking-ist-nicht-maranello|page=8|first=Timo|last=Völker|access-date=September 16, 2024|mode=cs2}} while its average fuel consumption is about {{convert|18.5|mpgus}}.{{Cite news|title=Steel yourself: Prestige | newspaper=The Sydney Morning Herald|first=David|last=Morley|date=3 November 2012|page=12|mode=cs2}}

The centre console of the 12C is equipped with a seven-inch touchscreen that controls the Meridian entertainment system and phone functionalities. The car also features Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity options.{{cite web | title=McLaren MP4-12C: Photos of the 200mph supercar with Wi-Fi | website=CNET | date=18 March 2010 | url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/pictures/mclaren-mp4-12c-photos-of-the-200mph-supercar-with-wi-fi/7/ | access-date=16 September 2024|mode=cs2}} The vehicle features ultra-low-profile Pirelli tires, with 19-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch wheels at the rear.{{cite news|title=Race relations|newspaper=The Sydney Morning Herald|mode=cs2|date=19 February 2011|first=Toby|last=Hagon|page=1}}{{cite news|title=Nauseatingly fast|newspaper=National Post|date=24 May 2013|page=DT.4|first=David|last=Booth}}

On 10 July 2011, the MP4-12C set the second fastest lap around Top Gear{{'s}} test track, posting a time of 1 minute and 16.2 seconds.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/topgear/show/powerlaps.shtml |title = Top Gear Power Laps|date=10 July 2011 |access-date=11 July 2011}} The car was developed and tested by McLaren on the Top Gear test track as part of their product development, long before its appearance on the show. It was 1.1 seconds slower than the Ariel Atom 500 and 2.4 seconds slower than the Pagani Huayra.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/topgear/show/powerlaps.shtml |title=TopGear Stig Power Laps |publisher=BBC |date=20 October 2008 |access-date=20 July 2011}}

The MP4-12C lapped the Nürburgring in 7 minutes and 28 seconds.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uc1Eaiu1nls |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/uc1Eaiu1nls |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title = MoterSport-McLaren MP4-12C : Nürburgring test |website=YouTube }}{{cbignore}}

The MP4-12C won the Middle East "Car of the Year" Award as "Best Supercar" in 2012 and overall "Car of the Year" at the Middle East Motor Awards the same year.{{cite web|

url=http://www.the-car-addict.com/2012/11/MCLAREN-12C-CAR-OF-THE-YEAR-2012-MIDDLE-EAST.html|

title=McLaren 12C Named Middle East 'Car of the Year'|

publisher=The Car Addict|

access-date=29 November 2012|

archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121208050000/http://www.the-car-addict.com/2012/11/MCLAREN-12C-CAR-OF-THE-YEAR-2012-MIDDLE-EAST.html|

archive-date=8 December 2012|

url-status=dead}}

{{cite web | url=http://www.zawya.com/story/The_McLaren_12C_named_Middle_East_Car_of_the_Year-ZAWYA20121129102936/|

title=The McLaren 12C named Middle East 'Car of the Year'|

publisher=zawya}}

File:2013 McLaren MP4-12C Spider rear.jpg

The 12C Spider is a convertible version of the MP4-12C with a retractable hardtop. Because the coupe was designed from the outset with a convertible version in mind, no additional strengthening was needed for the Spider and it weighs only {{convert|88|lb|kg|abbr=on|order=flip}} more than the coupe.{{cite journal|last=Comer|first=Colin|title=No Roof, No Change, No Problem|journal=Road & Track|date=January 2013|volume=64|issue=5|pages=44–49}} McLaren has worked to keep the Spider's top speed {{convert|204|mph|0|abbr=on}} close to the coupé's {{convert|207|mph|0|abbr=on}} top speed and up to {{convert|196|mph|abbr=on}} is possible roof down. Meanwhile, the dihedral doors of the coupé are retained.{{cite news|url=http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/uk/insider/archive/2012/07/03/12c-spider-arrives.aspx|title=McLarenAutomotive.com 12C Spider|publisher=McLaren Automotive|date=3 July 2012|access-date=3 July 2012|archive-date=5 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120705104118/http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/uk/insider/archive/2012/07/03/12c-spider-arrives.aspx|url-status=dead}}

File:McLaren MP4-12C High Sport.jpgIn March 2012, McLaren released pictures of five 12C HS taken in front of the McLaren Technology Center. The HS stands for High Sport. The 12C HS has different wheels and revised aerodynamic features inspired from the 12C GT3 such as a revised front end and rear bumper, larger vents and diffuser and a modified rear wing. Power was also increased by 75 horsepower.{{Cite web|title=McLaren MP4-12C High Sport comes into focus|url=https://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/mclaren-mp4-12c-high-sport-comes-into-focus/|access-date=2021-02-16|website=Autoblog|language=en}} Mclaren only made 10 units of the MP4-12C HS. In January 2016, a 12C HS painted in F1 Vodafone Racing Team colours reportedly commissioned by Ron Dennis was offered for sale at Mecum's Kissimmee auction with 203 miles. It had an estimate of $1,300,000 – $1,600,000 and didn't sell.{{Cite web|title=2012 McLaren MP4-12C High Sport {{!}} S148 {{!}} Kissimmee 2016|url=https://www.mecum.com/lots/FL0116-230036/2012-mclaren-mp4-12c-high-sport/|access-date=2021-02-16|website=Mecum Auctions|language=en}} The same F1 Vodafone Racing Team was offered again in January 2017 at Mecum's Kissimmee auction with an estimate of $950,000 – $1,200,000 where it still didn't sell.{{Cite web|title=2012 McLaren MP4-12C High Sport {{!}} F183.1 {{!}} Kissimmee 2017|url=https://www.mecum.com/lots/FL0117-279239/2012-mclaren-mp4-12c-high-sport/|access-date=2021-02-16|website=Mecum Auctions|language=en}}

The McLaren X-1 is a one-off sports car based on the McLaren 12C and built by McLaren Special Operations (MSO). It was displayed at the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. According to Paul MacKenzie, MSO Programme Director, the X-1 has been developed for the past three years. To style the X-1, McLaren used ideas from a 1961 Facel Vega, a 1953 Chrysler D'Elegance Ghia, a 1959 Buick Electra, a 1939 Mercedes-Benz 540K and a 1971 Citroën SM.{{Cite web|url=http://www.gtspirit.com/2012/08/17/official-mclaren-x-1-concept/|title = Official: McLaren X-1}}{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/news/9483507/McLarens-bespoke-X-1-breaks-cover.html|title=McLaren's bespoke X-1 breaks cover |last=Knapman|first=Chris|date=17 August 2012|work=The Daily Telegraph|accessdate=22 July 2021}}

File:Hiroki Katoh 2014 Super GT Suzuka Q1.jpg

In December 2010, McLaren announced that they would produce a small number of MP4-12C cars in order for them to compete in the FIA Group GT3. McLaren stated that they would provide maintenance for the cars and begin racing in 2012 with the CRS Racing team.{{cite web |url=http://mclarengt.com/ |title=McLaren MP4-12C GT3 Announcement website |publisher=Mclarengt.com |access-date=19 February 2011 |archive-date=10 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120910011301/http://mclarengt.com/ |url-status=dead }} The MP4-12C was the first car to compete in sportscar racing for the company since the F1 GTR.{{cite news|last=Elizalde|first=Pablo|title=McLaren MP4-12C to race from 2012|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88720|access-date=18 December 2010|work=autosport.com|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=17 December 2010}} It received its début with a single car entry for the Spa Francorchamps round of the British GT championship. This was followed by a three car entry in the 2011 Spa 24 Hours.{{cite news|last=Phillip|first=Sam|title=McLaren MP4-12C GT3: a Top Gear exclusive|url=http://www.topgear.com/uk/car-news/mclaren-mp4-12c-gt3-2011-04-20|date=20 April 2011|access-date=5 May 2011|archive-date=8 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110508042254/http://www.topgear.com/uk/car-news/mclaren-mp4-12c-gt3-2011-04-20|url-status=dead}} Another car was also entered in the GT cup of the 2011 Macau Grand Prix, driven by Danny Watts.{{cite news|title=Qualifying|url=http://www.afos.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1537:qualifying-rounds-11-a-12-guia-circuit-japan-&catid=84:results&Itemid=186|date=19 November 2011|access-date=19 November 2011|archive-date=4 May 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120504041142/http://www.afos.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1537:qualifying-rounds-11-a-12-guia-circuit-japan-&catid=84:results&Itemid=186|url-status=dead}}

In March 2012, McLaren readied 25 MP4-12C GT3 cars for a full racing season in the 2012 FIA GT1 World Championship, and its GT drivers tested the car on its Dunsfold test track, the same test track as used in the Top Gear BBC television show.{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/321615/20120329/mclaren-mp4-12c-gt3-top-gear-track.htm |title=McLaren MP4-12C GT3 Top Gear Track Test Video And Racing Debut – Autos & Trends |work=International Business Times |date=29 March 2012 |access-date=17 August 2012}} McLaren released several promotional videos for the MP4-12C in the lead up to the racing season, including one of Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton driving the car at locations in the U.S.

Compared to the road car, the MP4-12C GT3 produces less power with only {{Convert|493|bhp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}} due to homologation. The car features a bespoke six-speed gearbox that is {{Convert|80|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}} lighter than the road car's seven-speed, developed with Ricardo. The steering wheel is sourced from the McLaren MP4-24 Formula 1 car.{{cite web|url=http://www.evo.co.uk/news/evonews/267454/mclaren_mp412c_gt3_racing_car_new_pictures_and_video.html|title=evo: McLaren MP4-12C GT3 racing car: new pictures and video|access-date=5 May 2011}}

The car took its first victories in the world at the two races of the Circuito de Navarra round of the 2012 FIA GT1 World Championship season being run by Hexis Racing.

Tag Heuer produced a limited (1,000 units) series of Carrera MP4-12C Chronograph wrist watch inspired by the MP4-12C sports car. The watch was unveiled in 2011 TAG Heuer Mastering Speed Exhibition at Halle Secheron in Geneva.{{cite web|url=https://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/tag-heuer-carrera-mp4-12c-chronograph/|title=Tag Heuer Carrera MP4-12C Chronograph|author=KirGarlitos|date=23 December 2012|work=Top Speed}}{{cite web|url=http://www.mclarenstore.com/en/uk/mclaren-by-tag-heuer/tag-heuer-mp4-12c-watch/invt/mcl1155/|title=The only official McLaren Store – McLaren Teamwear – McLaren Gifts – McLaren Accessories – McLaren Polo Shirts – McLaren Jackets – McLaren T-shirts – McLaren Headwear – McLaren Footwear – McLaren Books – McLaren DVDs – McLaren Accessories|work=mclarenstore.com|access-date=13 December 2013|archive-date=14 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131214010617/http://www.mclarenstore.com/en/uk/mclaren-by-tag-heuer/tag-heuer-mp4-12c-watch/invt/mcl1155/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/tag-heuer-makes-a-watch-worthy-of-the-mclaren-mp4-12c/|title=TAG Heuer makes a watch worthy of the McLaren MP4-12C|author=Noah Joseph|work=Autoblog}}

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{{reflist|22em}}

• {{cite book|isbn= 978-1-4349-5564-7|title=The 300 Club|first=Sybrand|last=Anema|year=2010|mode=cs2|publisher=Dorrance Publishing Company}}
• {{cite book | last=Rehkopf | first=Jackie D. | title=Automotive Carbon Fiber Composites | publisher=SAE International | year=2011 | isbn=978-0-7680-7577-9|mode=cs2}}
• {{cite book | last=Rudnick | first=Leslie R. | mode=cs2 |title=Synthetics, Mineral Oils, and Bio-Based Lubricants | publisher=CRC Press | year=2013 | isbn=978-1-4398-5538-6}}

{{Commons category|McLaren MP4-12C}}

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20081204025453/http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/ Official McLaren Automotive website]

{{McLaren Automotive}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mclaren 12c}}

12C

Category:Coupés

Category:Hardtop convertibles

Category:Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicles

Category:Sports cars

Category:Cars introduced in 2011

Category:Cars discontinued in 2014