British automaker McLaren launched its drop-top version of the Spider at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this past weekend. Baroque Ground has all the details
The new 2018 drop-top sider variant of McLaren’s entry-level 570S mid-engine supercar revealed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed represents the third model in the brand’s entry level Sport series collection, which already includes the 540C, 570GT and the 570S Coupe.
The retractable drop-top is electrically operated, with a two-part folding mechanism that is similar to the one fitted on both the McLaren 650S and the 675LT Spiders. Opening and closing takes just 15 seconds in all, and can be operated even when the vehicle is moving if the speed is only up to 25mph.
Of course, the new model’s jaw-dropping features don’t stop there. Other specs for this new variant include a 562hp, 3.8-liter twin turbo V8 engine that literally races from 0 to 60mph in 3.1 seconds. You’ve heard these numbers before; they are identical to the coupe version. But the top speeds are different. This new drop-top model has a top speed of 204mph, but this slows down to 196mph when the top is down. It features a quick-shifting 7-speed gearbox that is rear wheel driven, and is loaded with McLaren’s high-tech performance wizardry in the form of a selection of driving modes and an excellent traction management system. Both of these features are identical to those in the Coupe.
Like all its supercar counterparts, the new Spider features an extremely strong MonoCell II carbon fiber passenger compartment and fully adjustable suspension. According to McLaren Automotive CEO, Mike Flewitt, “”The McLaren 570S Spider is a convertible without compromise. Its mid-engined layout and carbon fiber MonoCell II chassis guarantee the same thrilling dynamic performance and exceptional driver involvement enjoyed in a 570S coupe, but with the added attraction of roof-down motoring.”
All 400 launch edition models will be priced from $208,000, making them the most affordable Mclaren vehicles ever made. They are currently available for order and will be delivered to customers in August.