McLaren’s response to Ferrari’s 458 Italia Spyder is well on its way, thanks to the success achieved by the MP4-12C coupe. The new MP4-12C Spyder was confirmed back in 2009 and should be arriving within the next year if it plans to tackle Ferrari’s drop top. When it does arrive, expect the new model to be priced at a few thousand more than the $230K coupe.
The MP4-12C Spyder will feature a retractable hard-top, but will maintain the same mechanical setup and general design found in the standard model. Under the hood, we’ll more than likely find the twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-8 that will deliver a total of 592 HP. This engine will be mated to a 7-speed twin-clutch Seamless Shift Gearbox (SSG) that will be controlled via paddles mounted behind the steering wheel. The 0 to 60 mph will be made in about the same 3.3 seconds, while top speed will be 205mph.
UPDATE 01/06/12: Here’s an interesting piece of tidbit we found out about the McLaren MP4-12C Spyder concerning the retractable hard-top it’s expected to come with. According to reports, McLaren will be using carbon fiber as the material for the drop-top roof. And, according to Auto Motor Und Sport, the McLaren will feature a roof system much like the one found on the Ferrari 458 Spider, meaning the roof will fold up first and then sink vertically behind the seats.
UPDATE 05/30/12: British magazine AutoCar is offering new details on the upcoming MP4-12C Spyder. The magazine reports that the future supercar will come with an innovative folding roof mechanism. The roof will be made up of three panels which fold and stack on top of each other. If the driver wants to drive with the top down, it will be stored behind the seats in the two-seat cabin. And the best part is that this system allows full access view to the V8 engine through a glass panel, even with the roof down.
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