12 minute read
Supercar Style
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SUPERCAR STYLE
An undeniably stylish performance machine, McLaren's 720S Spider delivers a potent package of power paired with striking, supercar design. Providing an iconic aesthetic that is instantly recognisable, this the perfect way to enjoy everything the marque stands for.
Pushing the boundaries of the term 'supercar' when it launched back in 2017, the McLaren 720S delivers an all-encompassing package of dynamic performance and dazzling aesthetics, while the open-air offering that the Spider variant affords adds an extra thrill to the driving experience.
Sharing the same foundations as its fixed-roof coupé counterpart, the 720S Spider - like all McLaren cars - is built around a carbon fibre core. For this performance machine it comes in the shape of the Monocage II-S. Adapted to accommodate the Retractable Hard Top (RHT), it is a development from the Monocage II. Having to remove the structural, central 'spine' which runs across the top of the cabin and adapt both the front and rear upper structure would usually mean a need for some additional reinforcement, but thanks to the incredible properties that the ground-breaking carbon fibre Monocage structure possesses, it is simply just not needed. What this means for the Spider is the lightest dry weight compared to its closest rivals at just 1,332kg. And despite the addition of the RHT and tonneau system, the Spider weighs in just 49kg heavier than the coupé - less than a 4% increase. This makes for an incredibly dynamic and surprisingly efficient supercar.
A one-piece, carbon fibre panel for the RHT comes as standard, maintaining the profile and aerodynamic performance of the 720S coupé and adding a full carbon fibre upper structure when closed. Meanwhile, the electrically driven - rather than hydraulic - system delivers a fast operating roof that can be lowered or raised in just 11 seconds, the fastest in the supercar class. As a result of this incredible engineering, McLaren have registered three worldwide patents for the roof system.
An optional carbon fibre framed, glazed RHT is available to enjoy the open-air nature without having to lower the roof. Allowing you to transition rapidly between a transparent and tinted state, this electrochromic glazed option will automatically revert to its tinted state when the ignition is off to help maintain a reduced cabin temperature on hot days and thanks to a memory function, will return to its previous state when the ignition is switched back on.
The RHT stows beneath the aluminium rear tonneau cover. To accommodate both the Retractable Hard Top and rear tonneau cover, the Monocage II-S features a new carbon fibre upper structure around the engine bay that has been engineered to sit as close as possible to the charge air coolers and intake plenum to maximise luggage space. In turn, this lowers the height of the rear tonneau cover. There is a slight incline of five degrees in the carbon fibre structure towards the rear of the car, which helps to draw heat out of the engine bay and cool the powertrain, exhaust manifold and catalysts.
Thanks to the combination of these technologies - from being the first McLaren Spider with a carbon fibre Monocage, to the advanced roof system - the performance figures for the 720S Spider are comparable to the coupé. With the roof raised, there
is just a 0.1 second difference in both zero to sixty-two mile per hour time and standing quarter mile sprint. Dispatching each in just 2.9 seconds and 10.4 seconds respectively. What's more, the top speed remains a coupé-matching 212mph. Even when the roof is lowered, it can still manage a staggering 202mph, testament to the aerodynamic engineering that has gone in to this incredible machine.
The inherent benefits of the Monocage mean the Spider maintains huge torsional rigidity, an essential when trying to deliver this level of performance, allowing for some exceptionally dynamic driving, not only in straight line speed, but through fast-paced cornering too. Responding to driver input immediately, the ride and handling are uncompromising which is further enhanced by the seamless and organic aesthetics of the 'shrink-wrapped' body which appears to be sculpted by the air. Flowing forms combine to maximise downforce, minimise drag and enhance powertrain cooling, all while optimising aerodynamic balance.
Of course, this performance depends on what lies beneath as much as the aerodynamic ingenuity that's on display and thankfully, the impressive new 4.0-litre twin turbocharged V8 engine that powers the 720S Coupé remains unchanged for the Spider, delivering a staggering 720PS - hence the name - and whopping 770Nm of torque.
The levels of performance that this engine is capable of producing is thanks to the power and torque enhancements of 70PS and 92Nm respectively in the latest 4.0-litre M840T unit. Every element of the engine was analysed and refined by engineers at the McLaren Technology Centre to maximise power and sharpen engine responsiveness while also increasing fuel efficiency. Compared to the 3.8-litre engine, 41% of parts are all-new.
A key feature of this new engine is the ultra-low inertia, twin-scroll turbochargers. The lightweight turbines in the turbochargers are lighter and capable of spinning at 160,000rpm, making the turbocharger ‘spool up’ more rapidly. This improves engine response under acceleration by reducing ‘lag’ - as well as producing more power. Furthermore, the new wastegates and dump valve are electronically controlled to adapt to the powertrain’s requirements, actively managing the buildup of power and torque from low rpm and improving fuel consumption and reducing emissions.
Engine response - both on- and off the throttle - has been calibrated to deliver the optimum blend of immediate reaction and progressive control, ensuring absolute driver involvement. Under full acceleration, the power delivery builds relentlessly through the rev range, encouraging the driver to hold each successive gear to over 8,000rpm.
Matching the feeling of the powertrain is its exhilarating sound, enhanced further when the rear window is lowered, or when the Retractable Hard Top is stowed completely. The twin-exit stainless steel system delivers a scintillating supercar soundtrack that is clean and crisp, and rises with engine rpm and engine load to deliver a thrilling crescendo.
A soundtrack to be enjoyed from the outside as much as inside the luxurious, and surprisingly comfortable cabin. On opening the striking dihedral doors which hinge dramatically forwards and upwards - with an opening angle ensuring a generously wide aperture for getting in and out - the car comes to life. Delicate ambient lighting illuminates the interior space which features only the finest materials, while the vast digital displays initiate ready to deliver all of the necessary information for both driver and passenger.
This is a cabin that despite its race-car-esque credentials offers a sophisticated and welcoming environment that is one of the most luxurious in the sector. Those flowing lines which deliver such an incredible aesthetic on the exterior continue inside, with detail pieces and stitching pairing with more structural forms such as the centre console to create an inviting, athletic space without an over abundance of switchgear to ensure driver focus remains on the road at all times.
Despite the simplistic, clean design, the large, central digital interface allows quick and easy access to every aspect of the car from performance to entertainment and safety settings meaning you can adjust everything at the touch of the screen.
There is no compromise with this car. It is an unashamedly ferocious machine that is born from technologies drawn from the race track and delivered in the most exceptionally luxurious way. Power and performance are beautifully blended with comfort and style in a way few other supercars are able to achieve. The 720S Spider's blistering performance paired with the open-air driving experience is something to behold and an event that would never get old.
Every little detail has been crafted to ensure this remains a functional, useable and easy to live with car without compromising on the performance. Features such as the sills which drop down dramatically to allow for the occupants' feet to swing in and out of the car with ease and surprising luggage space available even when the roof is stowed all add to this cars broad spanning credentials. While the Proactive Chassis Control II (PCC II) suspension ensures a staggering breadth of ability across all road surfaces. Delivering remarkable body control for sharp handling while also providing a supple, compliant ride when required.
Performance is at the heart of this car, but it is delivered in a package that is so forgiving in its nature that you might just forget - for a second - what it is capable of. That is of course only until you press that right foot a little harder on the accelerator.
MCLAREN 720S SPIDER
Engine 4.0-litre Twin-Turbo V8 Power (PS) 720 Torque (Nm) 770 0-62mph (secs) 2.9 Max Speed (mph) 212 Transmission 7-Speed SSG Fuel Consumption (mpg) 23.2 CO² Emissions (g/km) 276 Price (from) £245,700
OSCAR INDIA
The introduction of Tadek Marek's V8 engine in 1969 brought a new era to the Aston Martin stable. The originally named Aston Martin V8 was born and remained the marque's mainstream car for almost two decades. By 1978, the Series 4 "Oscar India" specification was introduced.
Visually, the former bonnet scoop was replaced by a closed "power bulge", while a spoiler was integrated into the sleek yet angular tail. Most Oscar India cars were equipped with a Chrysler "Torqueflite" three-speed automatic transmission and a wood trim fitted for the first time since the DB2/4 of the 1950's. Just 352 Oscar India models were built from 1978 through to 1985, so this right-hand drive example is a rare find, especially in this condition. This example - with private number plate included - is presented in the very desirable colour combination of Canterbury blue coachwork with magnolia leather interior, and comes with the with auto ‘box, power steering and classic wooden steering wheel, and showing 109,000 miles. The car comes with a service file with previous invoices and MOTs and also comes with a parts manual. It was subject to a full mechanical overhaul by classic car specialists Robin Lackford including work to the underside with invoices totalling £26,763 1978 Aston Martin V8 Oscar India £POA and has covered just a few hundred miles since.
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Village Living
Enjoy a village lifestyle with the convenience of the city in one of London's much-loved corners. Green spaces and a more relaxed way of life are beautifully amalgamated with an unrivalled proximity to the hustle and bustle of the city and everything it has to offer.
THE LOVE FOR LONDON'S VILLAGES
with Frances Mcdonald, Savills Research Analyst
Throughout the pandemic, the value of properties in prime UK villages recorded their strongest growth in 12 years - rising by 9.0% during 2021. And, although growth has slowed to 5.1% in the year to September 2022, demand remains high, particularly across some of London’s villages.
For many, London’s villages combine the best of city and village life and have been some of the capital’s top performing markets since the start of the pandemic. A sense of community together with connectivity, family housing stock and plenty of green space makes London’s villages popular with a whole host of buyers, acting as a catalyst for increased demand from young couples and growing families to empty nesters and downsizers. As a result, London villages ‘golden formula’ makes for a competitive market place.
This, coupled with a lack of supply of the right type of homes, has led to strong price growth, particularly in some of the leafiest parts of the capital. In fact, the average value of a house in eight of London’s most notable villages - Barnes, Chiswick, Hampstead, Highgate, Marylebone, Richmond, Victoria Park and Wimbledon - has risen by 13.5% since the start of the pandemic back in March 2020.
This figure ranges from 16.2% in Hampstead, most famed for its heath and swimming ponds, 15.8% in Wimbledon, where its common occupies much of the area, to 2.3% in more central locations like Marylebone. Here, price growth is less significant due to lower levels of international demand which have constrained more significant price growth. Stock here is also typically geared more towards pied-a-terre buyers, with a larger number of apartments and flats available versus family homes with private outdoor space.
Hampstead Houses
Wimbledon Houses
Chiswick Houses
Highgate Houses
Victoria Park Houses
Richmond Houses
Barnes Houses
Marylebone Houses Quarterly growth
1.60%
1.10%
0.10%
1.40%
2.10%
-1.10%
0.90%
-1.50% Annual growth
6.90%
7.40%
3.30%
7.40%
3.90%
5.40%
4.90%
0.90% Growth since March 2020
3.90%
14.40%
12.80%
9.30%
14.50%
14.50%
15.30%
12.00%
Source: Savills prime London index, Q2 2022
Although demand continues to be strong and competitive bidding for the best homes is still prevalent, house price growth has started to ease. Values grew by 5.2% in the year to September, down from 6.3% three months previous. However, in a market we know is highly leveraged by, pressures on the cost of living and rising interest rates have begun to mediate some of this demand.
Esmond Road Chiswick, W4 �JQ
The attractive architecture of the house immediately sets the scene for this handsome Bedford Park family house with excellent lateral space and amazing volumes. Having been extended and improved by the current owners, these traditional proportions are complimented by a contemporary and stylish finish throughout.
Guide Price £3,25�,���
