The carbon-tub supercar that reset modern performance expectations — now entering collector scrutiny.
The 720S replaced the 650S with a new Monocage II carbon tub, 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 and astonishing real-world pace. It was faster than many hypercars yet civilised enough for regular road use.
As depreciation stabilises, the best Launch Edition, Performance and MSO cars are beginning to attract collector attention, though ownership discipline is essential.
The 720S is one of the defining performance cars of the late 2010s: brutally fast, technically advanced and visually distinctive.
| Variant | Years | Production | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 720S Coupe | 2017–2023 | — | Core Super Series model with 710 hp twin-turbo V8. |
| 720S Spider | 2019–2023 | — | Retractable hardtop with minimal performance compromise. |
| 765LT | 2020–2022 | — | Limited long-tail derivative; separate collector market. |
Start with identity, paperwork and originality. For the McLaren 720S, the strongest cars have a continuous ownership file, matching chassis and engine details where applicable, original manuals, invoices and evidence that major service work has been carried out by recognised specialists. MSO paint, Performance spec, carbon packs, low mileage, main dealer history and extended warranty are key.
The M840T is highly stressed but capable; coolant leaks, turbo plumbing, hydraulic suspension and electronic modules deserve detailed inspection. A proper pre-purchase inspection should include cold start behaviour, leak-down or compression testing where appropriate, diagnostic scans on modern cars, underbody photography, suspension pick-up point checks, brake condition and a road test long enough to reveal heat-related faults. Deferred maintenance is usually more expensive than buying the better car.
Use a paint-depth gauge, lift access and a specialist who knows the model's factory seams. Collector value is heavily affected by structural repairs, poor paintwork, corrosion, incorrect panels and missing factory trim. Cosmetic restoration can be acceptable when documented; hidden accident repair should be priced severely.
Buy on warranty status, service history, MSO specification and evidence that early electronic or hydraulic issues have been resolved. Specification, colour, transmission and limited-production variants can move values dramatically. Buy the best-documented car in the most desirable specification you can justify, rather than a tired example of a rarer derivative that will require years of corrective work.
Regional ranges authored independently — each reflects its local market, not an FX conversion
Budget annually even if the car is used sparingly. Fluids age, tyres date out, batteries fail and stored cars need exercise. A documented maintenance rhythm protects both reliability and resale value.
McLaren diagnostic tooling and Super Series experience are vital because electronic and hydraulic faults can be expensive to chase. Before purchase, confirm parts availability for model-specific trim, suspension, electronics and engine components. A cheap car waiting on unobtainable parts is rarely cheap in collector-car ownership.
Each region quoted in its local currency — independent market readings, not FX conversions
720S values are now less about raw depreciation and more about specification and warranty confidence. The car's performance reputation is secure; collector status will depend on long-term support and survival of exceptional examples.
| Date | Auction | Car | Mileage | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-05-20 | Bring a Trailer Online | 2019 720S Performance | 7,000 mi | $251,000 Sold |
| 2024-10-04 | Collecting Cars Online | 2020 720S Spider | 9,500 mi | £176,000 Sold |
| 2024-08-16 | RM Sotheby's Monterey | 2021 765LT | 1,800 mi | $516,000 Sold |
The 720S is historically important, but running costs and brand confidence still influence demand. The safest buys are warranted, highly optioned, low-mileage cars in rare colours.
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