BUYING A MCLAREN
Current Market
Peak Performance
McLaren is a British luxury sports car manufacturer known for producing high-performance, lightweight, and aerodynamically advanced vehicles. The company has a storied history in motorsports and has been successfully translating its racing expertise into road-legal supercars.
The market for McLaren cars are relatively strong, with the brand maintaining its position as a highly desirable choice among automotive enthusiasts. Key factors contributing to the brand's appeal include:
High-Performance Supercars: McLaren is renowned for producing high-performance supercars that rival some of the most exclusive and established brands in the automotive industry.
Cutting-Edge Technology: McLaren incorporates advanced technology and materials, such as carbon fiber chassis and hybrid powertrains, into its vehicles, ensuring they remain at the forefront of automotive innovation.
Limited Production: McLaren deliberately limits production, creating a sense of exclusivity and rarity among its models, which can contribute to strong demand in the market.
Expanding Model Lineup: McLaren has been expanding its model lineup, introducing new variants and limited-edition models, catering to a broader range of customers and enthusiasts.
Global Presence: McLaren has a strong global presence, with dealerships and service centers in various countries, appealing to a wide international customer base.
Are Mclarens a good investment?
Generally speaking, McLaren as a brand do not make the best investment cars. McLarens seem to depreciate in value fast than other cars within the same sphere. This can be down to a number of different factors. McLaren produce a high number of cars, meaning the supply is able to match the level of demand and sourcing a McLaren is not too difficult.
​
There are a few standouts however within the McLaren range. The most notorious is the McLaren P1. The McLaren P1, makes for an excellent investment due to its low production levels - just 439 models were produced - and its high level of search volume (40,500).
​
Additionally, the cost of maintenance and repair is another crucial consideration. McLarens, being premium vehicles, require regular upkeep and may entail higher repair expenses compared to more affordable options. This aspect can impact resale value, as potential buyers may be deterred by the prospect of expensive maintenance costs.
Financing options
The best way to finance a Mclaren
There are several financing options available to help you acquire a new or pre-owned McLaren.
One such option is hire purchase, which allows you to make monthly payments towards the car and provides the opportunity to buy the vehicle outright at the end of a fixed-term contract.
Next there is Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) which allows you to keep, exchange or return the vehicle at the end of the agreement. This product is the most flexible form of car finance.
Once obtained, refinance is always an option. Refinance is a form of equity release that unlocks cash from your vehicle. The released funds can be used for whatever purpose you wish.
Things to consider:
1. CAN YOU AFFORD IT?
One should always keep in mind that the expenses associated with owning a high-performance vehicle such as a McLaren, go far beyond the upfront cost. It's essential to take into account the recurring costs of maintenance, including items like tires and brake pads. Additionally, fuel consumption should be considered. With Jaguar, you have a variety of different pricing options available.
2. MAINTENANCE/INSURANCE/ADDITIONAL COSTS
McLaren parts and maintenance expenses can be undeniably high, regardless of the measurement used. Owning a high-performance car entails going through tires approximately every 6,000 miles. While independent specialists can help mitigate costs to some extent, they too are subject to the notably steep prices of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.
​
When insuring a McLaren, the premiums may be comparatively lower, but the long-term costs can escalate due to the scarcity of parts and the specialised level of care required. It's crucial to consider the likelihood of engine or gearbox rebuilds and necessary bodywork for older models, particularly those susceptible to rust prior to 1997. Undertaking such repairs is inevitably costly.
3.WHAT TO LOOK FOR
The expenses associated with McLaren parts and servicing are undeniably high, regardless of any measuring standard. High-performance cars often require replacement of their tires every 6,000 miles or so. While independent specialists can offer some cost-saving measures, they are still constrained by the notably steep prices of OEM parts. Insuring a Jaguar, depending on the model can actually be fairly affordable.
BEST BUYS
McLaren 765LT Spider
"PURE. ELEMENTAL. ENGAGEMENT."
Sleek
The McLaren 765LT Spider is more than just a convertible version of the 765LT Coupe. McLaren went the extra mile to create a unique and dynamic personality for the Spider. With a tri-motor all-wheel-drive electric powertrain boasting 1,020 horsepower, it can accelerate from 0-60 mph in under two seconds, making it a powerhouse of performance.
​
Despite its high list price, the Spider offers exceptional value for its capabilities. Weighing only 1388kg, it maintains remarkable straight-line performance. The new titanium exhaust not only enhances the driving experience but also adds to its incredible sound.
​
The Spider's dynamic adjustments make it more approachable and stable, providing a smoother ride and improved handling. On the road, it feels natural and responsive, making it a joy to drive. The interior boasts quality craftsmanship, and its convertible feature offers a thrilling open-top driving experience.
While it may not come cheap at £310,500, the McLaren 765LT Spider is undeniably one of the best vehicles from McLaren Automotive. With limited direct rivals, it stands out as a truly exceptional supercar.
McLaren 540C Coupé
Best value for money
The executives dream
The 540 Coupe stands as the ultimate sports car, striking a perfect balance between performance and driver-friendliness on both open roads and racetracks. While being McLaren's most affordable and entry-level model, it is far from basic, boasting a carbon fiber chassis, a potent 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 533bhp, and a price tag of £126,000.
​
Despite its mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout and impressive power output, the 540C surprises with its ease of driving. Equipped with a smooth dual-clutch automatic gearbox, it effortlessly pulls away in Drive mode. With a remarkable 533bhp under the hood, it achieves 0-62mph in just 3.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 199mph. These figures are akin to those of supercars, yet McLaren classifies the 540C as part of its Sports Series, alongside the 570S and 570GT.
