Last time we plucked a 720S from the PH classifieds it hadn't been long at all since the model arrived. Given its relative youth, then, a £30k discount over the car's £250,000 price tag (with options) seemed like more than reasonable value. Now, with the arrival of the 765LT drawing ever nearer following its Not Geneva reveal, it seems like a good time to check back in with one of our favourite supercars, and see how it's holding up.
You'll likely be aware of the superlative experience offered by the 720S by now. Its unerring stability through corners thanks to McLaren's exceptional Proactive Chassis Control II system, the remarkable stiffness offered by its Monocage II structure, and the mind-blowing acceleration afforded by the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. Yes, the unit may be a little too frequently rolled out by McLaren for some people's liking, but its 720hp from 7,500rpm and 568lb ft at 5,500rpm are hard to argue with. As is its 2.9-second 0-62 time, except for the fact that it manages to feel considerably quicker than that.
You may well have come across your fair share of gripes, too. Styling is the obvious one, although it's a criticism which is fairly easily dismissed. While those functional 'eye-sockets' certainly caused a stir following the car's Geneva reveal, time and familiarity have helped many come to terms with them. They're also far easier to overlook when seen in person, the eye being drawn less directly to them than in photos, and taking in the flowing muscularity of the 720's overall form instead.
Harder to contend with are the tales of poor reliability and customer service which multiple owners seem to have to tell. Many such stories can be found without too much difficulty and, while there are undoubtedly an equal or greater number of owners who have largely positive experiences to report, even a few is too many when you're spending this kind of money on a car.
But what kind of money is 'this' in 2020? From an initial launch price of £218,000 - a sum easily inflated by 20-30 per cent by options - there are now 11 examples of the 720S available on PH for less than £150,000. Or the same price as a new 570S. While a couple of those cars have (shock, horror) five-figure mileages - further evidence that not all McLarens sit in collections or break down - there are a good few with odometers in the low thousands.
And this is one; a 3,000-mile car available for just £149,900. Many owners seem to have strayed into the darker side of the colour palette when speccing their cars, but the Volcano Yellow paint found on this example looks incredible. Especially when paired with the optional Stealth and Carbon Fibre packages found here, which, when taken with the 10-spoke super-lightweight alloys and stainless steel Larini exhaust, give an indication of just how expensively specced this car once was. Inside you'll find an MSO Defined carbon fibre steering wheel, as well as the Carbon Fibre Primary and Secondary Components packs and heated electric sports seats too.
An emotive experience as well as a precision instrument, the 720S represented McLaren's first genuine rival to products from more established supercar manufacturers. It may not be perfect, but if there was plenty to recommend in Woking's Super Series stunner when new, then it looks an absolute bargain with the best part of £100,000 in savings added to its already beguiling array of talents.
SPECIFICATION - MCLAREN 720S
Engine: 3,994cc, twin-turbo V8
Transmission: 7-speed SSG, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 720@7,500rpm
Torque (lb ft): 568@5,500rpm
MPG: 26.4
CO2: 249g/km
First registered: 2018
Recorded mileage: 3,000
Price new: £218,020 (before options)
Yours for: £149,900
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