In early 2012, Hennessey Performance Engineering released its 800HPE kit for the McLaren MP4-12C. At that time the supercar was capable of 800 horsepower. In its latest revision the 2013 Hennessey McLaren MP4-12C HPE700 delivers 704 horsepower.
This was accomplished through an engine management software upgrade, an improved intercooler, addition of dual air induction filters, and a new stainless steel exhaust system.
The basic idea of the upgrade is to allow an increase in the air and fuel into the combustion chambers causing an “explosion” of power. The new intercooler keeps the air cool and dense via a water/methanol injection pump.
The dual induction filters and exhaust allows for an abundance of air to move through the system as well. Without the 700HPE kit installed the vehicle is capable of 616 horsepower.
The MSRP of the 2013 McLaren is $239,400. The HPE700 kits costs an estimated $19,500.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Coupe | Base Price: NA |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gals (72 L) | MPG: NA |
| Length: 177.5 in. (450.9 cm) | Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (267 cm) |
| Height: 47.2 in. (119.9 cm) | Width: 74.6 in. (189.5 cm) |
| DIN Weight: 3249 lbs (1474 kg) | Maximum Seating: 2 people |
| Engine: V8 Twin Turbo | Displacement: 3.8 Liter |
| Horsepower: 704 HP | Max RPM: 7500 RPM |
| Torque: 538 lb-ft @ 5800 rpm | Transmission: 7-Speed McLaren Dual Clutch* |
| 0-60 mph: 2.8 seconds | Quarter mile Speed: 210 mph (338 km/h) |
* McLaren 12C specs
Engine & Performance
The standard engine of the 2013 Hennessey McLaren MP4-12C is a 3.8 liter, twin turbo, V8 that generates 616 horsepower. By adding the HPE700 kit the horsepower is ratcheted up to 704 horsepower at 7500 rpm.
You get a torque of 538 pound-feet at 5800 rpm. This upgrade allows the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph at 2.8 seconds to go with a top speed of 210 mph.
Exterior
What needs to be said about this cars outside after the above discussion about what can be found under the hood?
Suffice it to say, it’s lines are reminiscent of a Formula 1 racer with an ultra low stance, oversized wheels and sleek contour.
There is a serial numbered dash and engine plaques, along with special Hennessey and HPE700 exterior badging. The McLaren name is displayed in the rear just below the adjustable rear wing.
Interior
The cockpit of the Hennessey McLaren MP4-12C is basic for the task at hand. No frills and gimmicks are allowed as all your attention must be focused on the road ahead when navigating this “ultra car” down the highway.
The steering wheel is two tone in color and flat at the bottom. The McLaren “swoosh” is displayed in its center and the logo are also on the floor mats.
The sport bucket seats match the steering wheels dual colors and the instrumentation panel is ergonomically concise. A nicely fitted center console provides all amenity controls with a display screen located at its top.
