McLaren Artura vs 720S
In the realm of exotic supercars, McLaren has consistently pushed boundaries with engineering excellence and breathtaking performance. Two models that represent different eras and philosophies within the British marque’s lineup are the revolutionary Artura and the legendary 720S. While production of the 720S ended in December 2022, making it a final-year collector’s item, the comparison between these two machines remains incredibly relevant for supercar enthusiasts considering pre-owned 720S models or weighing them against the new-generation Artura. This battle isn’t just about numbers—it’s about philosophy, representing McLaren’s transition from pure combustion dominance to hybrid electrified performance. Let’s dive deep into this fascinating clash of titans.
Table of Contents
Design Language: Evolution vs Revolution
McLaren 720S: Teardrop Perfection
The 720S design is inspired by the teardrop, nature’s perfect aerodynamic form, creating one of the most striking supercars of the past decade. The dihedral doors sweep upward dramatically, while the streamlined bodywork flows seamlessly from nose to tail. The signature McLaren eye sockets integrate sophisticated LED headlamps that create an aggressive, skull-like frontal expression.
At the core of the 720S design is 360° visibility, unprecedented in supercars, achieved through an advanced composite structure that allows for much slimmer A-pillars and glazed C-pillars. This design breakthrough transforms driver confidence, providing sightlines that make the 720S feel smaller and more manageable than its dimensions suggest.
The 720S features active aerodynamics throughout, including an integrated rear spoiler that adjusts automatically based on speed and driving mode. Air intakes hidden within the body channels feed the twin-turbocharged engine while maintaining visual purity. The teardrop-inspired silhouette isn’t just beautiful—it delivers genuine aerodynamic benefits that contribute to the car’s 212 mph top speed.
Available as both a coupe and Spider convertible, the 720S Spider adds a retractable hardtop that can be lowered or raised in just seconds without compromising the car’s structural rigidity or performance capabilities. The design remains stunning in either configuration, though the Spider’s exposed engine bay adds visual drama.
McLaren Artura: Hybrid Sophistication
The Artura represents McLaren’s latest design evolution, maintaining the brand’s DNA while incorporating subtle refinements that signal its hybrid nature. At 178.7 inches in length, the Artura’s dimensions make it almost identical in size to the 720S, yet the newer model looks somehow more compact and purposeful.
The front fascia features a more refined interpretation of McLaren’s signature eye socket headlamps, with integrated LED daytime running lights creating a distinctive light signature. The nose rides slightly lower than the 720S, contributing to a more planted, aggressive stance. Hidden door inlet ducts and rear buttresses channel airflow efficiently over, under, and through the body.
The seamless, sculpted bodywork showcases McLaren’s advancing carbon fiber expertise and techniques like Aluminum Hot Forming. The rear design incorporates an integrated spoiler and diffuser that generate downforce for stability without resorting to massive wings or aggressive aero elements that might compromise daily usability.
For 2025, the Artura lineup expands with the Spider convertible variant, featuring a retractable power-operated hardtop that can be lowered in just 11 seconds. The Spider weighs only 136 pounds more than the coupe, showcasing McLaren’s obsessive focus on weight management even when adding complex roof mechanisms.
Powertrain Philosophy: Pure V8 vs Hybrid V6
McLaren 720S: Twin-Turbo V8 Domination
Both the 720S coupe and convertible cradle a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 that produces 710 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. This M840T engine represents the pinnacle of McLaren’s naturally aspirated turbo V8 development, delivering instantaneous response and a ferocious exhaust note that defines the supercar experience.
The engine delivers 720PS and 770Nm of torque, achieving 0-60mph in just 2.8 seconds and 124mph in an astonishing 7.8 seconds. But these raw numbers only tell part of the story—the 720S engine’s character lies in its linear power delivery, building from 2,500 rpm through to its 8,500 rpm redline with relentless, intoxicating force.
The twin-scroll turbochargers utilize titanium-aluminum alloy compressor wheels that spool faster than any competitor, virtually eliminating turbo lag. The engine management system continuously adjusts wastegate positions, optimizing boost pressure for immediate throttle response. Advanced Port Fuel Injection combines with direct injection for maximum efficiency and power.
Power is funneled through a paddle-shifted seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with the 720S coupe rocketing to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds and reaching 100 mph in 5.2 seconds. The transmission features McLaren’s custom programming that achieves shift times faster than 0.05 seconds, essentially eliminating any interruption in acceleration during gear changes.
The 720S produces a visceral, emotional soundtrack that builds to a mechanical crescendo at high revs. The optional sports exhaust amplifies this experience, creating pops and crackles on overrun that remind passengers this is a race car tamed for road use.
McLaren Artura: Hybrid High-Performance Pioneer
The Artura is powered by a hybrid twin-turbo V-6 powertrain that makes a combined 690 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque. This represents McLaren’s first series-production hybrid since the legendary P1 hypercar, bringing electrified performance to a more accessible price point.
The all-new 120-degree V6 engine displaces 3.0 liters and produces 596 horsepower independently. Despite being smaller than the 720S’s V8, this engine weighs 110 pounds less while spinning to 8,500 rpm with a characterful sound that builds toward the redline. The twin-turbo configuration delivers strong mid-range torque while maintaining high-rpm excitement.
The gas engine is supplemented by an axial flux electric motor located within the housing of the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, producing an additional 94 hp and 166 lb-ft, with power from a 7.4-kWh lithium-ion battery pack under the rear cabin. This compact electric motor provides instant torque fill at low rpm, eliminating turbo lag entirely and delivering seamless acceleration from standstill.
McLaren claims the Artura rockets to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds with a top speed of 205 mph—impressively quick, though a few tenths behind the 720S in outright acceleration. However, the hybrid powertrain’s immediate electric torque creates a different character, with instantaneous response that feels more urgent at low speeds than the 720S.
The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission represents new territory for McLaren, adding an extra gear compared to the 720S’s seven-speed unit. The transmission integrates the electric motor directly, allowing for pure electric driving when desired. The clever packaging eliminates the need for a reverse gear—the Artura simply uses electric power to move backward, saving weight and complexity.
According to McLaren, owners can expect up to 21 miles of EV-only range, though the EPA states 11 miles of all-electric operation. While this might seem modest compared to plug-in hybrid sedans, it’s sufficient for silent emissions-free cruising through neighborhoods or parking structures, adding a dimension of usability the 720S cannot match.
McLaren 720S: Lightweight Domination
Weight management defines McLaren’s engineering philosophy, and the 720S exemplifies this obsession. The carbon fiber MonoCage II chassis forms the structural core, providing exceptional rigidity while minimizing mass. Every component undergoes scrutiny to eliminate unnecessary grams without compromising safety or durability.
The 720S achieves a remarkable DIN curb weight (including fluids and 90% fuel) of 3,139 pounds for the coupe. The Spider adds minimal weight thanks to the chassis being designed from inception as a convertible, gaining only 108 pounds for the retractable hardtop mechanism. This obsessive weight control contributes directly to the 720S’s transcendent performance.
The power-to-weight ratio becomes staggering: approximately 0.226 horsepower per pound for the coupe. This figure explains why the 720S accelerates with such ferocity—there’s simply very little mass to move relative to available power. The lightweight construction also benefits handling, braking, and fuel efficiency.
Quarter-mile performance demonstrates the 720S’s acceleration prowess, covering the distance in under 10.5 seconds at speeds exceeding 140 mph. These numbers rival purpose-built drag racing machines while being achieved in a car with comfortable seats, air conditioning, and reasonable luggage space.
McLaren Artura: Efficient Hybrid Performance
The Artura’s DIN curb weight is 3,303 lbs, making it only 164 lbs heavier than the 720S despite adding electric motor, battery, inverter, and hybrid control systems. This minimal weight penalty showcases McLaren’s engineering excellence—most hybrid systems add substantially more mass.
The weight savings come from multiple sources: the new V6 engine weighs 110 pounds less than McLaren’s V8, the carbon fiber McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) saves significant mass, and the electrical components utilize compact, efficient designs. Every element contributes to keeping weight minimal.
The Artura’s power-to-weight ratio calculates to approximately 0.209 horsepower per pound—excellent by any standard, though slightly behind the 720S. This explains the small acceleration deficit, though real-world driving reveals the difference is barely perceptible. The instant electric torque at low speeds often makes the Artura feel quicker in typical driving situations.
The Artura Spider adds only 136 pounds compared to the coupe, maintaining McLaren’s tradition of building convertibles that sacrifice minimal performance. The carbon fiber chassis was designed from inception to support both body styles without requiring reinforcements that add significant weight.
Technology & Safety: Advancing Standards
McLaren 720S: Performance-Focused Tech
The 720S prioritizes performance technology over comprehensive driver assistance systems. The chassis incorporates advanced features like brake steer, which applies braking to the inside rear wheel during cornering to tighten the car’s line and reduce understeer. Variable drift control allows experienced drivers to adjust stability intervention precisely, enabling controlled oversteer for maximum lap times or simply spirited fun.
The hydraulic adaptive suspension continuously adjusts damping based on road conditions and driving inputs. This system responds faster than electronic alternatives, providing exceptional body control without harsh ride quality. The suspension can independently control each wheel’s damping, managing body roll and pitch with remarkable effectiveness.
Active aerodynamics include an automatically adjusting rear spoiler that deploys based on speed and selected driving mode. At high speeds, the spoiler rises to generate downforce and improve stability. During hard braking, it tilts to increase drag and reduce stopping distances.
Safety equipment includes multiple airbags, advanced traction control, electronic stability control, and ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution. The carbon fiber MonoCage II passenger cell provides exceptional crash protection, though the 720S hasn’t undergone official crash testing due to low production volumes.
The optional front-end lift system proves invaluable for navigating steep driveways or speed bumps without scraping the expensive carbon fiber front splitter. This feature alone saves thousands in potential damage repairs and increases usability significantly.
McLaren Artura: Modern Safety Integration
The Artura incorporates Level 2 ADAS features that were unavailable when the 720S debuted. The suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning with auto emergency braking, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic sign recognition. These systems work cohesively to reduce driver fatigue during long journeys and prevent accidents.
The adaptive cruise control maintains set following distances automatically, adjusting speed smoothly in highway traffic. Lane-keeping assist provides gentle steering corrections to prevent unintended lane departures, though it’s unobtrusive enough that driving enthusiasts won’t find it annoying. The systems can be disabled completely for track use.
The 360-degree surround-view camera displays a bird’s-eye view of the Artura’s surroundings, making parking and low-speed maneuvering dramatically easier. Parking sensors at front and rear provide audible distance warnings, while the high-resolution rear camera ensures clear visibility when reversing.
Blind-spot monitoring proves particularly useful given the Artura’s limited over-shoulder visibility—a common supercar trait. LED indicators in the mirrors alert drivers to vehicles in blind spots, while rear cross-traffic alert warns of approaching vehicles when reversing from parking spaces.
The electronic parking brake with auto-hold simplifies stop-and-go traffic management, automatically holding the car stationary until the throttle is applied. Hill-hold assist prevents rollback on inclines, adding confidence during hill starts in traffic.
Safety credentials include the 720S’s proven crash protection enhanced with more modern occupant protection systems. While neither car has undergone official crash testing, both feature ultra-rigid carbon fiber passenger cells designed to protect occupants during severe impacts.
Fuel Economy & Range: Practical Considerations
McLaren 720S: Pure Performance Efficiency
According to the EPA, the 720S is rated for 15 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway, and 18 mpg combined. These figures prove respectable for a 710-horsepower supercar, though fuel economy rarely factors heavily into purchase decisions at this price point. The 720S prioritizes performance over efficiency, and its thirsty V8 reflects that philosophy.
Real-world fuel consumption varies dramatically based on driving style. Spirited driving, track days, or extended periods in Sport or Track mode can see consumption drop to single digits. Conversely, highway cruising at moderate speeds approaches the EPA’s optimistic estimates. The 72-liter fuel tank provides approximately 250-300 miles of range under mixed driving conditions.
The 720S accepts premium unleaded gasoline, with McLaren recommending 93 octane or higher for optimal performance. Using lower octane fuel causes the engine management system to retard timing, reducing power output and potentially causing knock under hard acceleration.
For owners concerned about environmental impact, the 720S offers no electrification or alternative fuel options. It’s a pure gasoline-powered machine from an era when supercar manufacturers felt no pressure to hybridize or electrify their flagship models.
McLaren Artura: Hybrid Efficiency Advantage
The 2025 Artura is EPA-rated to achieve 18 mpg combined, with an 11-mile electric range, though McLaren claims the Spider delivers 45 MPGe and 21 miles of EV range. These figures demonstrate the hybrid system’s efficiency benefits during normal driving, though they don’t dramatically exceed the 720S under heavy acceleration.
The key advantage lies in flexibility. The Artura can complete short journeys—running errands, driving through neighborhoods, arriving at events—in complete silence using only electric power. This zero-emission capability adds genuine usability that the 720S cannot match, particularly in areas with noise restrictions or emissions zones.
Charging the 7.4 kWh battery takes approximately 2.5 hours using the included 3.3 kW onboard charger connected to a standard household outlet. Public Level 2 charging stations reduce this to under two hours. While hardly quick by EV standards, overnight charging easily replenishes the battery for daily electric-only commutes.
The regenerative braking system captures kinetic energy during deceleration, converting it to battery charge and extending range. Multiple regenerative intensity levels allow drivers to adjust how aggressively the system harvests energy, from gentle coasting to aggressive one-pedal driving characteristics.
Real-world efficiency depends heavily on driving style and charging habits. Owners who charge regularly and drive primarily in E-Mode or Comfort can achieve impressive fuel economy figures approaching 40-50 MPGe. Those who drive aggressively and ignore charging see consumption similar to the 720S.
Pricing Strategy: Investment Perspective
McLaren 720S: Collectible Status
The 2023 720S coupe standard model retailed for $310,500, with the base 720S Spider checking in at $326,500. Performance or Luxury variants added another $9,500, while McLaren’s extensive options catalog allowed buyers to configure six-figure supercars into mid-six-figure bespoke creations.
Popular options included carbon fiber exterior upgrade packages costing over $11,000, performance exhaust systems, the 12-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio upgrade, electrochromic glass roof, heated and powered memory seats, 360-degree parking assistance, and McLaren Track Telemetry with cameras. A fully optioned 720S could easily exceed $400,000.
McLaren Special Operations (MSO) offered virtually unlimited customization possibilities for those seeking ultimate exclusivity. Custom paint finishes, bespoke interior materials, unique carbon fiber treatments, and one-off design elements allowed buyers to create truly unique machines—for appropriate premiums.
With production ended, the 720S now trades on the used market. Well-maintained examples with moderate mileage typically command $250,000-$350,000 depending on specification, mileage, and condition. Particularly desirable specifications or ultra-low-mileage examples command premiums, while high-mileage track-focused cars trade at discounts.
The 720S’s collectibility continues growing as enthusiasts recognize it as the last pure V8 McLaren before the brand’s hybrid transition. Many consider it the peak of McLaren’s Super Series development—a swan song for naturally-aspirated-turbocharged V8 domination.
McLaren Artura: Modern Value Proposition
The starting price for the new McLaren Artura coupe was $238,000 when introduced, with increases for 2025 seeing this rise to $249,100 before options, the $5,000 transportation charge and the $2,208 America Accessories Pack. This positions the Artura as McLaren’s most affordable current model, undercutting the 720S by over $60,000.
The base model of the Artura Spider starts at $273,800 in the US, with three interior specifications available for an extra $9,400 each. These interior packages—Performance, TechLux, and Vision—primarily affect aesthetic choices rather than equipment levels, allowing buyers to personalize their cars without massive price escalation.
Technology packages add meaningful features at reasonable cost. The Technology Pack costs $7,400 and includes wireless smartphone charging, road sign recognition, 360-degree parking assistance, and intelligent adaptive cruise control—features that genuinely enhance usability.
McLaren offers extensive customization through MSO, though Artura owners tend toward more restrained specifications compared to 720S buyers. Popular options include carbon fiber steering wheels, lightweight forged wheels, underbody carbon fiber panels, and various paint and trim upgrades.
The Artura’s pricing strategy positions it against the Ferrari 296 GTB (starting around $320,000) and Corvette E-Ray (approximately $105,000). The McLaren splits the difference, offering exotic credentials and performance at a price point more accessible than Ferrari while maintaining clear superiority over the Corvette’s mainstream brand positioning.
The Artura’s ownership experience benefits from McLaren’s maturation as a manufacturer. The warranty matches the 720S at five years unlimited mileage, with a three-year complimentary maintenance plan covering scheduled services. This reduces ownership costs during the critical initial period.
Service requirements should prove similar to the 720S, though the hybrid system adds complexity that may increase diagnostic and repair times. McLaren’s hybrid expertise continues developing, so early Artura owners essentially pioneer electric-McLaren ownership for the brand’s technicians.
Battery degradation represents a long-term consideration absent from the 720S. Modern lithium-ion batteries typically retain 80% capacity after 8-10 years of regular use, though replacing the battery pack would prove expensive. McLaren provides an eight-year battery warranty, offering protection during the critical period.
Charging infrastructure accessibility varies dramatically by location. Urban areas offer abundant public charging, while rural regions may lack convenient options. Home charging proves most practical, requiring only a standard household outlet for overnight replenishment, though Level 2 home charging stations dramatically reduce charging time.
The Artura’s additional driver assistance features reduce stress during daily driving. Adaptive cruise control transforms highway commutes, while parking sensors and cameras make low-speed maneuvering less intimidating. These features broaden the Artura’s usability envelope compared to the 720S.
Attention levels match the 720S—exotic mid-engine supercars attract crowds regardless of propulsion type. The Artura’s slightly more restrained styling may attract marginally less attention, though casual observers rarely differentiate between exotic car models.
The Verdict: Choosing Your McLaren
Choose the McLaren 720S If:
Pure V8 Sound Matters: Nothing matches the emotional engagement of the twin-turbo V8’s mechanical symphony at full song. The 720S delivers aural drama the hybrid Artura cannot replicate.
Ultimate Performance Priority: The 720S’s lighter weight and more powerful engine deliver slightly superior acceleration and track performance. For those seeking maximum lap times, the 720S edges ahead.
Collectible Status Appeals: As the final pure V8 Super Series McLaren, the 720S’s collectibility continues growing. Well-maintained examples will likely appreciate as enthusiasts recognize its significance.
Established Technology Preferred: The 720S’s proven powertrain eliminates hybrid system complexity and potential battery degradation concerns. Everything is mechanical, familiar, and thoroughly developed.
Track Focus Dominates: While the Artura excels on track, the 720S’s slight weight and power advantages, combined with its more aggressive character, make it the purer track weapon.
Used Market Value: With 720S production ended, well-maintained used examples offer exceptional value, often costing less than new Arturas while delivering comparable or superior performance.
Choose the McLaren Artura If:
Hybrid Technology Intrigues: The Artura represents cutting-edge hybrid supercar development, combining electric efficiency with gasoline performance in genuinely impressive fashion.
Daily Usability Important: Electric-only driving for short distances, comprehensive driver assistance features, and modern infotainment make the Artura more practical for regular use.
Environmental Consciousness Matters: While hardly a Prius, the Artura’s hybrid system reduces emissions and fuel consumption compared to pure V8 alternatives, appealing to environmentally aware enthusiasts.
Latest Technology Preferred: Modern driver assistance systems, improved infotainment, and sophisticated hybrid powertrain management showcase McLaren’s advancing technological capabilities.
New Car Warranty Desired: Factory warranty coverage, known history, and ability to customize from the factory appeal to buyers who prioritize peace of mind over used-market savings.
Budget Considerations: The Artura’s lower starting price compared to the 720S’s original MSRP makes it more accessible, though used 720S models may cost less than new Arturas.
Final Thoughts: Two Roads to Supercar Nirvana
The McLaren 720S and Artura represent different eras in supercar development, yet both achieve the fundamental mission of delivering intoxicating performance wrapped in stunning design. The 720S epitomizes the naturally-aspirated-turbo V8 era’s peak—raw, visceral, and emotionally engaging in ways that transcend specifications.
The Artura pioneers McLaren’s hybrid future, proving electrification enhances rather than compromises the supercar experience. The instant electric torque, silent cruising capability, and sophisticated powertrain management create a different but equally compelling character. The hybrid system adds versatility without surrendering the excitement that defines McLaren.
Performance differences prove marginal in real-world driving. The 720S accelerates slightly quicker, sounds more dramatic, and weighs less. The Artura responds more instantly at low speeds, offers electric-only driving, and includes modern driver assistance features. Both deliver supercar performance that exceeds most drivers’ abilities to fully exploit on public roads.
The choice ultimately reflects personal priorities. Traditionalists seeking pure mechanical engagement, ultimate performance, and collectible status will prefer the 720S. Forward-thinking enthusiasts who value hybrid efficiency, modern technology, and daily usability will embrace the Artura. Neither choice disappoints—both represent McLaren at its finest, delivering supercar experiences that justify their exotic status and pricing.
For those fortunate enough to consider either McLaren, the real answer might be “both.” The 720S as a weekend toy and occasional track weapon, the Artura for daily driving and longer journeys. Together, they span McLaren’s evolution from pure combustion mastery to hybrid-electric excellence, representing the British brand’s unwavering commitment to pushing supercar boundaries through relentless innovation and engineering excellence.
The supercar world benefits from manufacturers like McLaren who refuse
