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Alex has written for Vanity Fair, Barrons, Bloomberg and Condé…
The 2013 McLaren MP4-12C Spider, the luxury convertible sports car that is the second model in the MP4-12C lineup, will start at $268,250 when it goes on sale in late December in the U.S. Pricing includes a $2,500 destination charge.
The 12C Spider is equipped with a 616-horsepower 3.8-liter V8 twin-turbo engine linked to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. McLaren calls the car’s roof system the ‘Retractable Hard Top’ and has designed it so that it can be operated at speeds of up to 19 mph. McLaren says it takes less than 17 seconds to lower the roof.
McLaren Automotive Managing Director Antony Sheriff shared his thoughts on the new Spider: “While the 12C is the technological essence of a race car, the 12C Spider incorporates an additional dimension. 12C Spider owners will love the opportunity to lower the roof and hear the unhindered howl of a V8 twin turbo engine at full throttle. It undoubtedly enhances an already euphoric 12C driving experience. The 12C Spider delivers all the thrills characteristic of a high performance roadster, and yet transforms into a raucous track beast at the flick of a switch. I can’t wait to see it on road and track with customers later this year.”
![Avatar photo](https://cdn.pursuitist.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Alex-Carter_avatar_1473260063.jpeg)
Alex has written for Vanity Fair, Barrons, Bloomberg and Condé Nast Traveler.