That is incredibly impressive, I love the flair of the 458, but i respect this simliarly to how i respect a 911 turbo. Brilliant engineering and performance!

 

I've said this before, but I think McLaren and Porsche have a very similar design philosophy. They develop complete solutions with masterful engineering, and avoid being too showy (even when Porsche try and be showy, all they seem to manage to do is throw silly colors and tacky stickers on otherwise sensible cars). Imagine if Porsche were to develop a car in that market segment (and do so with a clean sheet, rather than pumping up a 911). Would you not expect it to be a lot like the MP4-12C - beauty through functionality?

I suspect that on a daily basis, the McLaren would be the far more satisfying car to own.

 

I still think the McLaren is overall a more beautiful car, the Ferrari isnt stunning from every angle IMO.

On side note a I think that was the best Topgear segment in a while, the montage of shots matched to the music plus the honest review was great. I know everyone thinks the show is overdone these days with special effects and scenes but this episode had it all in balance.

 

I was expecting a super quick time from the MP4-12C, but even this time is relatively slow compared to the reported 1:12.915 with the light weight package which was talked about in May. I personally think it is impossible to separate the MP4-12C and the 458 Italia without actually driving them.

 

Absolutely agree with you gents. There's no denying the passion behind Ferrari evident in the 458's ability to go from docile and tame to absurdly wild, however there seems to be a more utilitarian approach with a touch of cutting edge to the styling of 12C. If the 458 can be adored as widely as it is despite it's suspect looks; the 911 so popular despite the similar styling of the 28 models; I see no reason why those who feel as passionate about those two wouldn't appreciate the 12C for what it is.

Mclaren has done it right, again.

 

I hope I get to drive one soon. Just fantastic and hats off to their engineers.

 

Yes it has. I saw a white one with black wheels in London in the middle of June. Definitely looks better in person than pictures.

 

That was a test or press car. Even in the video it talks about how Mclaren plans on changing the throttle response for release.

 

Why is it that 5th gear look like a bunch of idiots trying to drive the McLaren?

 

Jason and Tiff are both very accomplished drivers....

Clarkson though far more entertaining, is not.