McLaren 720S PERFORMANCE

Highlights

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

Summary

This 2019 McLaren 720S Performance represents an extraordinary opportunity for a collector or enthusiast in the GCC, offering a near-showroom experience with exceptionally low mileage that is far below the regional average for a five-year-old supercar. The Performance trim elevates the standard 720S with extensive carbon fiber detailing and an interior focused on driver engagement, making it a highly sought-after specification in the secondary market. Finished in a striking Red, this vehicle holds a strong resale position in the UAE and wider GCC, where high-visibility colors on flagship supercars are always in demand. Compared to its rivals, the 720S offers a unique carbon-fiber Monocage II chassis that provides a level of structural rigidity and weight saving that translates into unmatched agility on the UAE’s sweeping highways. For a buyer in this region, the most important consideration is the sheer performance headroom available, as this car remains one of the fastest street-legal machines ever to grace the Dubai Autodrome or Yas Marina Circuit. With such minimal use, this specific car bypasses the typical wear associated with the harsh Gulf summer, presenting as a pristine example of British engineering.

This Car vs Other 2019 720Ss

When comparing this specific 2019 720S to others currently available in the GCC market, the primary differentiator is the remarkably low odometer reading. While the average supercar in the UAE might cover 5,000 to 7,000 km annually, this vehicle has traveled just 3,000 km in total over five years, suggesting it has been kept in a climate-controlled environment and used sparingly for special occasions. This low usage is a massive advantage for resale value in the GCC, as buyers prioritize mechanical freshness and interior preservation above all else. The Red exterior is a classic choice for a McLaren, ensuring it stands out against the more common silver and white cars found in local traffic. Finding a Performance trim with this level of preservation is becoming increasingly difficult as more examples enter the high-mileage bracket or are exported out of the region. This car offers the peace of mind that comes with a vehicle that hasn't endured the daily heat cycles of a typical commuter supercar.

PERFORMANCE vs Lower Trims

The Performance trim is the most desirable configuration for the 720S, adding significant value over the base Luxury or Standard trims through the extensive use of lightweight materials and aesthetic upgrades. Choosing the Performance package swaps out many exterior components for high-grade carbon fiber, including the hood air intakes, door mirror housings, and rear fender air intakes, which are critical for cooling in the extreme GCC heat. Inside, the cabin is transformed with Alcantara upholstery and carbon fiber racing seats that provide better support during spirited drives through the Jebel Hafeet mountain roads. This trim also includes ambient lighting and engine bay illumination, which showcases the hand-built V8 under the glass cover—a feature that always impresses at local car meets. For the GCC buyer, the Performance trim is seen as the definitive way to experience the 720S, ensuring that the car holds its value better than the more understated Luxury specifications. These additions are not just cosmetic; they reflect the car's racing heritage and focus on weight reduction, which is a key selling point in the regional supercar community.

720S vs Segment Rivals

The McLaren 720S competes directly with the Ferrari 488 Pista and the Lamborghini Huracán Performante, but it leads the segment in terms of pure technical sophistication and visibility. Its unique 'eye-socket' air intakes and dihedral doors provide a level of theater that even its Italian rivals struggle to match in the car parks of the Burj Khalifa or the avenues of Riyadh. Unlike the Huracán, which relies on a naturally aspirated V10, the McLaren uses a 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 that offers a broader torque curve, making it much more capable during high-speed highway overtakes on the E11. The 720S also features Proactive Chassis Control II, a hydraulic suspension system that allows it to be more comfortable than a Ferrari over city speed bumps while remaining flatter in the corners. The visibility offered by the teardrop-shaped glass cockpit is the best in its class, making it much easier to navigate through heavy Dubai Mall traffic compared to the cramped interiors of its competitors. Furthermore, the 720S has a larger front luggage compartment than most mid-engine rivals, making it more practical for a weekend trip to a luxury resort in Ras Al Khaimah.

Running Costs & Resale

Maintaining a McLaren 720S in the GCC is a specialized process, with authorized service centers located in major hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Riyadh. Real-world fuel consumption for the 710 hp V8 is surprisingly efficient on long highway runs, though stop-start traffic in downtown areas will see those figures rise significantly. It is recommended to use only 98-octane Super fuel to maintain the engine's peak performance in high ambient temperatures. Service intervals occur every 15,000 km or annually, and for a car with such low mileage, these services are mostly focused on fluid refreshes and system diagnostics to ensure the electronics remain sharp. Because this is an 'Other' spec vehicle, buyers should verify service history and warranty compatibility with the local Al Habtoor or equivalent dealerships, though the global nature of McLaren's network simplifies parts sourcing. Historically, the 720S has shown better value retention in the GCC than its predecessor, the 650S, particularly in the Performance trim. This specific listing, with its exceptionally low mileage, is expected to depreciate much slower than the market average for European supercars.

Performance & Capability

The performance figures for the 720S are nothing short of breath-taking, with a 0–100 km/h time of just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 341 km/h. This level of power is perfectly suited for the well-maintained, wide-open highways of the UAE, where the car's aerodynamic efficiency can truly be felt. The 4.0L V8 produces 710 hp and 770 Nm of torque, delivered through a seamless 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that provides instant response during overtakes. The car features several drive modes—Comfort, Sport, and Track—which adjust the hydraulic suspension and powertrain mapping to suit the environment. In the GCC, the 'Comfort' mode is surprisingly adept at handling the expansion joints and variations of urban roads, while 'Track' mode prepares the active rear wing to act as an airbrake for high-speed stability. The rear-wheel-drive setup is managed by an incredibly advanced traction control system, ensuring that even on dusty or sandy road surfaces, the power is translated into forward motion rather than wheelspin. This is a car designed for those who appreciate the engineering required to achieve world-class lap times while maintaining the poise of a grand tourer.

Comfort & Cabin

Inside the 720S Performance, the focus is on a driver-centric environment that doesn't sacrifice the luxury expected in this segment. The cabin is surprisingly airy for a supercar, thanks to the slim pillars and glazed C-pillars that provide 360-degree visibility—a massive help when merging onto fast highways. The air conditioning system is remarkably robust for a British supercar, specifically designed to handle the high heat loads of the Middle East and keep the two passengers cool even in mid-July. The Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and carbon fiber trim elements provide a tactile, high-quality feel that holds up well against the sun's UV rays compared to standard leather. For technology, the Folding Driver Display is a highlight, tucking away to show only essential information when in Slim mode to minimize distractions during high-speed driving. The infotainment system includes navigation and a high-end audio system, though most owners prefer the soundtrack of the mid-mounted V8. Despite its low profile, the ingress and egress are made easier by the way the dihedral doors take a portion of the roof with them, allowing you to step into the cabin with ease.

Safety

Safety in the 720S starts with its Monocage II carbon fiber structure, which acts as a safety cell providing immense protection while keeping the car light. This rigidity is a key safety factor during high-speed highway travel, ensuring the car remains stable and predictable. The vehicle is equipped with advanced electronic stability control and a specialized ABS system that works in tandem with the active aerodynamics to reduce stopping distances significantly. For daily GCC driving, the front and rear parking sensors along with a high-definition rearview camera are essential for protecting the carbon fiber bodywork in tight spaces. The car also features sophisticated airbag systems and seatbelt pretensioners designed for high-performance use. The LED headlights are among the brightest in the industry, offering exceptional visibility during night drives on unlit desert roads. While many supercars feel fragile, the 720S is engineered with a level of robustness that provides confidence, whether you are navigating a busy city center or exploring the limits on a closed circuit.

The bottom line

This 2019 McLaren 720S Performance is a rare find in the GCC market due to its incredibly low 3,000 km mileage and highly desirable specification. It offers the perfect balance of collectibility and world-beating performance for a buyer who wants the very best of British engineering without the wait for a new model.

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