Here it is folks, a McLaren MP4-12C vs Ferrari shoot-off. Ever since the McLaren MP4-12C debuted at the Goodwood Festival of Speed last year, the only thing people wanted to know was, is it better than the Ferrari 458? Both feature a 400kW-plus mid-mounted V8 engine, both use a sophisticated dual-clutch gearbox, the main difference is the Mac is four-wheel drive whereas the Fezza is rear-drive.
In the first video, Tiff Needell and Jason Plato from Fifth Gear do a conventional comparo road test. Comparing the 441kW/601Nm 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 of the MP4-12C, to the 420kW/540Nm 4.5-litre naturally-aspirated V8 of the Ferrari. The guys seem to like the Ferrari’s playful handling while praising the McLaren’s sure-footed four-wheel drive system and build quality. Anyway, take a look, we don’t want to spoil final outcome for you.
In the second video, EVO in the UK pitches the McLaren MP4-12C up against the Ferrari 458, the Porsche 911 Turbo, and the Noble M600 in a straight line drag race. For those who don’t know what a Noble M600 is, it’s a lightweight (1300kg) rear-drive supercar with a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 outputting three different levels of power, respective of the adjustable boost; 336kW (on 8.7psi), 410kW (on 11.6psi) and a whopping 485kW (on 14.5psi).
It’s a pretty awesome race, take a look below. You’ve got to love the sound of that Ferrari.