McLaren 720S PERFORMANCE 2018 MCLAREN 720S | P1 SEATS | FULL CARBON EXTERIOR | CARBON CERAMIC BRAKING SYSTEM | JA

Highlights

• 0–100 km/h in under 4 seconds
• Hand-built engine
• Lowest depreciation in class

Summary

This specific example represents a remarkable opportunity in the GCC market, featuring extremely low mileage that suggests it has been preserved as a collector’s piece rather than a daily driver. The finish in red is a classic choice for performance vehicles and maintains strong appeal and resale liquidity among regional enthusiasts. Being the Performance trim, this car is equipped with a higher level of carbon fiber finishes and interior refinements that distinguish it from the standard models. Its performance metrics place it at the very top of its segment, outperforming many vehicles that cost significantly more. For a buyer in the UAE or wider GCC, this car offers the rare combination of show-car condition and world-beating speed. The single most important factor for an owner in our region is the meticulous maintenance and the heat management of the mid-mounted engine, both of which are expertly handled by the car's advanced cooling architecture.

This Car vs Other 2018 720Ss

When looking at the 2018 market in the GCC, most examples have covered significantly more ground, often averaging 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers per year. This vehicle shows just 15,500 kilometers over several years, which is exceptionally low and places it in the top tier of available inventory for its model year. The red exterior is a highly desirable color in the local market, often fetching a premium over more muted tones because it highlights the dramatic aerodynamic lines of the body. While this is a Japanese spec vehicle, it has been integrated into the local car culture where such imports are valued for their high auction grades and careful prior ownership. Buyers will find that the condition of the interior and the paintwork reflects this low-usage history, offering a 'near-new' feel that is hard to find in other 2018 models. This is an ideal vehicle for a collector who wants a pristine example without the immediate depreciation of a showroom-fresh car.

PERFORMANCE vs Lower Trims

The Performance trim is a significant step up from the base model, focusing on weight reduction and a more aggressive aesthetic that resonates with GCC supercar buyers. It adds extensive Carbon Fibre Primary and Secondary Interior Components, which give the cabin a focused, motorsport-inspired atmosphere. On the exterior, you gain the Carbon Fibre Exterior Upgrade Pack 1, which includes carbon air intakes and mirror casings that are not standard on lower versions. The trim also includes ambient lighting in the engine bay, allowing the hand-built V8 to be displayed even at night during social gatherings. Perhaps most importantly for the local climate, the Performance trim often features Alcantara and Nappa leather combinations that stay cooler to the touch than standard full-leather seats during the intense summer months. These upgrades are not just aesthetic; they contribute to the car's overall value retention as second-hand buyers specifically hunt for high-carbon specification cars.

720S vs Segment Rivals

The 720S occupies a unique space in the GCC, often being cross-shopped with the Ferrari 488 Pista or the Lamborghini Huracán Performante. While those rivals rely heavily on branding and naturally aspirated sounds, this car leads the segment in pure technical capability and aerodynamic efficiency. It features a revolutionary Monocage II carbon fiber tub which provides better structural rigidity and safety than the aluminum frames found in many competitors. The active rear wing serves as an airbrake, a feature that provides immense stability during high-speed braking on tracks like the Dubai Autodrome. It also offers more usable luggage space than most mid-engine rivals, with a deep front trunk and a rear shelf that makes it surprisingly practical for a weekend trip to Fujairah. Furthermore, the Visibility is far superior to its Italian rivals, thanks to the glazed C-pillars and slim dashboard design.

Running Costs & Resale

Operating a supercar in the GCC involves specific considerations, particularly regarding cooling and tire wear on hot tarmac. This car returns roughly 15.8 liters per 100km in mixed city driving, though highway cruising between Emirates can see that figure improve significantly thanks to the efficient 7-speed transmission. It requires 98-octane Super fuel, which is readily available at all major stations across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Service intervals are typically every 15,000 kilometers or once a year, and there are highly professional authorized service centers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with growing support across the wider GCC. This model has shown remarkable value retention in the local market, depreciating much slower than its predecessor, the 650S, due to its segment-leading performance. Since it is a Japanese spec, owners should ensure they use a local specialist for any regional software updates, though mechanically the car is identical to GCC-spec units.

Performance & Capability

The defining characteristic of this car is its 710 horsepower output, which allows it to reach 100 km/h in a staggering 2.9 seconds. On the long, straight highways of the UAE, the acceleration feels relentless, pushing the car to a top speed of 341 km/h where conditions allow. The Proactive Chassis Control II system is a standout feature for the region, using hydraulic dampers instead of traditional anti-roll bars to provide a ride that is surprisingly supple over city speed bumps but laser-focused on the highway. There are specific driving modes—Comfort, Sport, and Track—that allow the driver to tailor the car’s personality for a relaxed commute or a spirited drive through the Jebel Jais mountain passes. The car's ground clearance can be managed via an optional vehicle lift system to navigate the more aggressive speed humps found in some residential areas. Overall, it offers a level of performance that challenges even 'hypercars' at a fraction of their cost.

Comfort & Cabin

Inside, the two-seat cockpit is designed with a 'driver-first' philosophy, featuring a folding driver display that tucks away to provide an uncluttered view of the road during high-speed driving. For the GCC climate, the dual-zone climate control system is remarkably robust for a mid-engine car, capable of cooling the cabin quickly even after it has been parked in the sun. The Performance trim's use of lightweight materials does not sacrifice comfort, as the seats offer excellent lateral support for long drives across the border. Large windows and an optional glass roof create a sense of space that is rare in this segment, preventing the claustrophobic feeling common in other low-slung supercars. Noise insulation is well-engineered to keep the engine's roar at a communicative but non-intrusive level during steady cruises. Connectivity is handled through a central touchscreen that manages navigation and media, ensuring the driver is well-supported on longer journeys.

Safety

Safety in this vehicle is anchored by its carbon fiber passenger cell, which provides incredible impact protection while remaining lightweight. It is equipped with advanced traction and stability control systems specifically tuned to handle high-torque output, which is essential for maintaining grip on sandy or dusty road surfaces often encountered in the region. The braking system utilizes carbon-ceramic discs as standard, providing fade-free performance even under high-temperature conditions. Front and rear parking sensors, along with a high-definition camera system, make maneuvering in tight urban parking lots much safer and easier given the car's width. Blind-spot monitoring and a comprehensive airbag suite provide additional peace of mind during fast-moving highway traffic. Every safety system is designed to intervene subtly, ensuring that the driver remains in control while providing a significant safety net.

The bottom line

This 720S Performance is the perfect choice for a buyer who wants the highest level of modern supercar technology with the peace of mind that comes from incredibly low mileage. It is a standout opportunity to own a car that remains the benchmark for performance in the Middle East.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.