← Back to Cars

McLaren MP4-12C

GT3 (2010)McLaren
592 hp
Horsepower
1336 kg
Weight
RWD
Drivetrain
2011
Year

McLaren MP4-12C (GT3-era Supercar)

The McLaren MP4-12C is a lightweight British supercar built around McLaren’s carbon-fiber MonoCell chassis and a twin-turbo V8 in a compact mid-engine layout. In road-car form it’s known for clinical precision, huge grip, and an almost race-car-like driving position — all of which make it a natural fit for sim racing.

Key Specs (BoP-dependent, typical sim values)

  • Powertrain: 3.8L twin-turbocharged 90° V8 (mid-mounted, longitudinal)

  • Total Output: ~592 hp (441 kW)

  • Redline: ~7,000 rpm

  • Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic

  • Weight: ~1,336 kg

  • Dimensions: ~4,507 mm long × 1,909 mm wide × 1,199 mm tall | Wheelbase 2,670 mm

  • Tires: High-performance Michelin road tires on lightweight forged wheels

  • Brakes: Carbon-ceramic discs with high-performance multi-piston calipers

  • Layout: Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive

In the Simulator Feel

The MP4-12C is a precise, fast, and surprisingly approachable supercar that rewards smooth inputs and confidence under braking. It doesn’t have the raw drama of some Italian rivals, but it makes up for that with a beautifully balanced chassis, strong traction, and a very forgiving attitude at the limit. In the sim, it feels like a car that wants to be driven cleanly and decisively rather than tossed around.

Engine & Sound: The twin-turbo V8 delivers a deep, modern tone with a muted but aggressive turbocharged growl. Power builds hard through the midrange, and the dual-clutch gearbox snaps off shifts with a satisfying mechanical precision. It’s not the loudest car in the room, but it has a refined, purposeful soundtrack that suits its character.

Handling Characteristics:

  • Cornering: Very neutral with excellent front-end bite. The chassis rotates cleanly when you trail brake and stays stable at speed.

  • Traction: Excellent rear grip and predictable power delivery make it easy to put the throttle down early.

  • Braking: Strong, confidence-inspiring brakes with good feel and stability under heavy deceleration.

  • Top Speed: Strong straight-line performance, with the turbo V8 pulling hard once on boost.

Driving Style Tip: Drive it with patience and precision. Smooth steering, gentle trail braking, and early-but-clean throttle application let the car stay settled and fast. It shines on technical circuits where balance and exit speed matter more than raw theatrics.

Livery & Aesthetics: The MP4-12C has a clean, modern McLaren look — low-slung, aerodynamic, and understated in a way that still feels exotic. The dihedral doors, sculpted side intakes, and minimalist cabin give it a high-end motorsport feel even in road-car trim.

Whether you’re carving through a mountain pass or chasing lap times, the McLaren MP4-12C delivers a polished, fast, and rewarding supercar experience that feels right at home in Assetto Corsa.