Skip to main content

Magazine

Could the McLaren 12C be the ultimate bargain supercar?

For around 60,000 of your hard-earned pounds, you could get a mid-spec Porsche Cayman, or you could buy this stunning McLaren 12C that’s going under the hammer with Silverstone Auctions on May 28th.

Brand new cars rarely hold up in price comparisons against what's available in the Classic Driver Market, and that’s perhaps never been more true than in the case of this gorgeous 2012 McLaren MP4-12C. These days, this McLaren’s guide price of between 60,000 and 70,000 pounds would probably only get you an optioned-up four cylinder Porsche Cayman on the new car market, when instead you could have an honest to goodness V8 carbon tubbed supercar.

Penned by Frank Stephenson, who was also responsible for modern-day icons such as the R50 Mini Cooper and Ferrari F430, the 12C’s subtle yet athletic design has aged remarkably well, arguably looking fresher than some of McLaren’s more recent supercars (we’re looking at you, McLaren GT). Finished in a lovely shade of Ice Silver, this 12C has thankfully been spared the hideous fate of being painted in burnt orange like so many others. Inside is an equally reserved affair, with black leather upholstery and matching black carpets, electric memory seats, and an upgraded sound system, all helping to ensure an enjoyable driving experience when the roads fail to live up to the 12C’s considerable agility. 

Overall, this looks to be an excellent example of the model that relaunched McLaren, and with an odometer reading of 34,393 miles, its one that has been enjoyed sparingly throughout its life, which should encourage you to go out and do the same. The 12C is a landmark car in the history of McLaren, and one that no doubt paved the way for their current dominance in the supercar space. So, for the money would you settle on the 911’s little brother, or would you rather enjoy the full-fat supercar experience instead? We think we know which car we’d choose. So, if you're interested, be sure to check out Silverstone Auctions' Supercar Fest Sale on May 28th