McLaren has revealed the second model in modern times that wears the iconic "Longtail"
name. Strictly limited to only 500 examples worldwide, the 675LT Spider is an
open-top version of the 675LT Coupe. It has the same 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8
engine, capable of outputting 666 hp.
As the Coupe version, the McLaren 675LT Spider also focuses on light weight,
enhanced aerodynamics, increased power and track-focused dynamics. This latest model joins the McLaren P1 GTR, 570S Coupé and 540C Coupé, and the
fixed-head 675LT Coupé as new to the line-up, and further strengthens the Super
Series range.
As with the Coupé, production of the 675LT Spider will be
strictly limited to only 500 examples, with first deliveries in summer 2016.
Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes just 2.8 seconds, and 124 mph is achieved in
8.1 seconds - giving away only 0.2 seconds to the more aerodynamically optimized
and lighter coupé. Controlled torque delivery in first gear manages torque to 443 lb-ft
(600 Nm) to ensure maximum acceleration, and
minimizing wheel slip. Top speed is 203 mph (326 km/h). Despite these blistering
performance figures, the 675LT Spider returns 24.2mpg on the EU combined cycle,
while CO2 emissions remain at 275g/km - the same as the coupé. A three-piece
retractable folding hardtop can be opened at speeds up to 19 mph (30 km/h) to
allow for a new level of open-air exhilaration.
The special nature of the model is supported
by the extensive use of carbon fiber for the bodywork. As with the 675LT Coupé,
the front bumper with larger splitter and end plates, front under body, side
skirts, side intakes, lower side intakes, rear bodyside lower, rear fenders,
rear deck, rear bumper, diffuser and 'Longtail' Airbrake are all carbon fiber.
Lightweight components are also found throughout the powertrain and chassis, all
contributing to a dry weight of just 2800 lb (1,270 kg). This weight is a full
200 lb (100 kg)
lighter than the already lightweight 650S Spider, and gives a power-to-weight
figure of 532 hp per tone. Due to the inherent strength of the carbon fiber
MonoCell chassis, no further strengthening - and associated weight increase -
has been added through the removal of the roof, and the 675LT Spider is only
80 lb (40 kg) heavier than the Coupé, all due to the retractable roof system.
The dramatic styling and purposeful stance of the 675LT is retained with the
Spider variant, with the extended front splitter flanked by front wing end
plates, each working the airflow harder and increasing downforce. At the rear, the
lightweight titanium crossover twin exhausts exit below the active 'Longtail'
Airbrake which is 50 percent larger than other Super Series models. This is
integrated in to the design of the flowing rear wings and despite the larger
size, carbon fiber construction ensures weight is actually reduced. Exposed
bodywork across the rear deck and below the rear wing aids engine cooling, while
louvres in the flared rear bumper optimize pressure levels.
The 675LT Spider shares the suspension set up and geometry of the Coupé, with
the front end sitting on new lightweight springs and a wider track - increased
by 20mm. Spring rates are the most track-focused of the Super Series models,
with stiffness increased 27 percent at the front and 63 percent at the rear,
providing a more rearward balance and allowing for a 40 percent increase in
downforce over the 650S Spider.
As standard, the 675LT Spider is fitted with 10-spoke Ultra-Lightweight forged
alloy wheels - 19-inch at the front, 20-inch at the rear - and P Zero Trofeo R
tires, developed for the 675LT models in collaboration with technical partner
Pirelli. These are the lightest wheel and tire set ever offered by McLaren. Two
Super-Lightweight wheel options are optionally available; a new 20-spoke design,
offered in liquid metal or diamond cut finishes, and the five-spoke
Super-Lightweight design which debuted on the Coupé.
