2014 McLaren P1

Key Points: Paint Protection Film (PPF), Carbon Fibre Rear Spoiler, Stealth Pack.

The P1 is McLaren’s flagship vehicle and the second instalment in the Ultimate Series, following the McLaren F1. Considered the F1’s spiritual successor, the P1 has a 90kg carbon fibre monocoque, and a mid-engined, rear-wheel drive layout. Just 375 examples were delivered worldwide.

Power comes from a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged ‘M838TQ’ V8, producing 727hp and 531lb-ft of torque, paired with an electric motor to provide ‘torque fill’ with an additional 177hp and 192lb ft, for a combined output of 903hp and 664lb-ft of torque. The rear wheels are driven through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission developed by Graziano.

Electric power is stored on a high-density 324-cell lithium-ion battery pack, which can be charged in two hours, either by the engine or with a plug-in charger. The P1 has an all-electric range of 6.2 miles.

The P1 has a Formula 1-derived Instant Power Assist System (IPAS), which gives an instant boost in acceleration via the electric motor, a Drag Reduction System (DRS) which operates the rear wing and increases straight line speed, and a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS).

According to McLaren, the P1 accelerates from 0-62 mph in 2.8 seconds, before reaching an electronically limited top speed of 217mph. Stopping power comes from carbon-ceramic brake discs developed by Akebono, which slow the car from 186mph to a standstill in just 6.2 seconds/246 metres.