McLaren 570S

Start with identity, paperwork and originality. For the McLaren 570S, the strongest cars have continuous ownership history, matching numbers where applicable, original books and tools, factory build documentation and evidence of work by manufacturer-approved specialists. Original paint, factory carbon exterior, Bowers & Wilkins audio and lifting nose are the option boxes the secondary market rewards.

The M838TE 3.8 twin-turbo V8 is robust when serviced on schedule; check coolant lines, turbo actuators and electronic damper behaviour, and confirm major service evidence (4-year fluid service in particular). A proper pre-purchase inspection includes cold-start behaviour, ECU diagnostics and fault-code history (where applicable), leak-down or compression testing, underbody photography, suspension and chassis inspection, brake condition and a long enough road test to expose heat-related faults. Deferred maintenance on a car of this class is almost always more expensive than buying a better-sorted example.

Use a paint-depth gauge, lift access and a specialist familiar with the model's factory panel gaps and finish standards. Collector value is dramatically affected by structural repairs, refinished panels, poor paintwork and missing factory trim or option content. Documented cosmetic refresh is acceptable; concealed accident or fire damage must be priced severely.

Coupes in primary colours with full McLaren dealer history, Track Pack or factory carbon spec are the strongest sellers; tired pre-owned cars with deferred service items are widely available and rarely cheaper in the end. Specification, colour, options and limited-build variants move values significantly. Buy the best-documented example in the most desirable specification you can justify, rather than a tired example of a rarer derivative that will need years of corrective work.