Ferrari 12Cilindri vs McLaren 720S
Compare the Ferrari 12Cilindri vs McLaren 720S. The McLaren 720S is £170,000 cheaper. The McLaren 720S is 0.0s quicker to 60mph. The McLaren 720S is more fuel efficient. Full performance, cost & ownership breakdown.
The Ferrari 12Cilindri is priced from £395,000, powered by a 6.5L V12, producing 819 hp (830 PS), with 678 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 2.9 s, a top speed of 211 mph, sent to the road via rear-wheel drive. The McLaren 720S is priced from £125,000, powered by a 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8, producing 710 hp, with 770 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 2.9 s, a top speed of 212 mph, sent to the road via rear-wheel drive.
The Ferrari 12Cilindri offers a 270-litre boot, runs on petrol, returns around 18 mpg, is covered by a 4 years / unlimited miles (original UK cover; servicing is separate) warranty. The McLaren 720S offers a 150-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol, returns around 23 mpg, is covered by a 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover) warranty.
On cost of ownership, the McLaren 720S is £170,000 cheaper than its rival, both require around £0 per year in maintenance, the McLaren 720S is the more fuel-efficient choice, the Ferrari 12Cilindri has 92 L fuel tank, the McLaren 720S has 72 L fuel tank.
Driving Character: Ferrari 12Cilindri vs McLaren 720S
The 12Cilindri defines a new peak for front-mounted V12 performance, combining an 830hp naturally aspirated powerplant with a remarkably agile rear-wheel-drive chassis. The four-wheel steering system effectively masks the long wheelbase, granting this grand tourer a nimbleness that defies its size. While the 6.5L engine demands high-rev engagement for maximum effect, the chassis balance remains composed even when pushing near the limits of adhesion. It represents a sophisticated evolution of the 812 lineage, ensuring that the raw, mechanical intensity of the V12 remains the primary focus of the driving experience.
The McLaren 720S remains a benchmark for mid-engined supercar performance, pairing a 710 hp twin-turbo V8 with a sophisticated Proactive Chassis Control system. This allows it to span the gap between a supple grand tourer and a track-slaying weapon with a simple mode adjustment. The carbon fibre monocoque provides a remarkably rigid platform, allowing the suspension to work with precision. While turbo lag is present at low revs, the relentless mid-range surge is intoxicating. Steering remains communicative, though the sheer scale of the performance often outpaces the driver’s ability to fully explore the car's limit on public tarmac.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 12Cilindri — 6.5L V12 engine; delivers legendary naturally aspirated power and high-frequency revving capabilities; the McLaren 720S — Proactive Chassis Control II; handling balance and body control exceptional. Characteristic of the Ferrari 12Cilindri: Rear-wheel drive chassis; refined suspension tuning provides exceptional poise on fast road sections. For the McLaren 720S: Variable drift control system; throttle-adjustable handling for experienced drivers. In outright terms it is 819 hp against 710 — a 109 hp gap — and the McLaren 720S reaches 60 mph 0.0s sooner.
Interior & Cabin: Ferrari 12Cilindri vs McLaren 720S
Inside, the dual-cockpit dashboard draws clear inspiration from the 365 GTB/4, blending classic design motifs with a modern digital architecture. The interior feel is focused squarely on driver immersion, with the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system seamlessly integrated into the minimalist aesthetic. Materials are finished to an exceptional standard, reflecting the car's grand touring intent. While the cabin is clearly a masterclass in modern Ferrari ergonomics, the rear seats remain purely vestigial, serving as additional storage rather than a functional space for passengers.
The cabin design prioritises visibility and function, featuring a unique folding instrument display that creates a clean, distraction-free environment for circuit work. Carbon fibre and Alcantara are the primary materials, imparting a tech-forward, high-end feel that justifies its market position. The primary weakness lies in the infotainment system, which is notoriously dated and struggles with basic connectivity compared to its rivals. However, the F1-inspired driving position and the sheer amount of glass in the dihedral doors create an airy, commanding environment that makes the 720S feel far more approachable than its rivals from Maranello or Sant'Agata.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 12Cilindri — Modernised cockpit layout; integrates digital gauge clusters with classic leather-wrapped luxury surfaces; the McLaren 720S — Folding dihedral doors provide an event of entry unique in class. Characteristic of the Ferrari 12Cilindri: Driver-focused ergonomics; controls are positioned to minimise distraction during rapid driving. For the McLaren 720S: Relatively practical interior for a supercar; usable storage and visibility.
Daily Usability: Ferrari 12Cilindri vs McLaren 720S
Despite its performance pedigree, the 12Cilindri offers a practical, if physically imposing, approach to daily grand touring. The 270L boot provides genuine capacity for luggage, making it a viable companion for extended journeys. In urban environments, the four-wheel steering is indispensable, allowing the driver to navigate tight streets with a precision that belies the car's significant length and width. However, the long bonnet and expansive bodywork require a cautious approach in city centres and parking facilities, where the car’s sheer footprint can make tight manoeuvres feel somewhat daunting.
For a vehicle capable of 212 mph, the 720S is surprisingly adept at daily errands. The adjustable suspension mode turns the car into a compliant, smooth-riding machine that handles city driving with unexpected composure. The front trunk provides a modest 150-litre space, perfect for an overnight bag, though owners must rely on the front nose lift to negotiate even minor driveways. Ingress is made easier by the dihedral doors, but the wide sills still demand a degree of flexibility. Provided one keeps a close eye on ground clearance, it is perhaps the most versatile supercar of its generation.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 12Cilindri — Refined grand touring character; sufficient comfort for extended drives between city centres; the McLaren 720S — Electrochromic roof adds light; 150L boot adequate for weekend luggage. Characteristic of the Ferrari 12Cilindri: 270L boot space; provides practical room for two people on international road trips. For the McLaren 720S: Active Dynamics panel enables genuine Comfort mode for everyday use. that means 270 litres of boot space against 150, plus a usable front boot in the McLaren 720S, and everyday running costs that favour the McLaren 720S at the pumps.
Ownership: Ferrari 12Cilindri vs McLaren 720S
Ownership of the 12Cilindri is defined by its status as a bastion of the naturally aspirated V12 in an increasingly electrified automotive landscape. The standard 7-year warranty and maintenance programme provide a high level of security for what is fundamentally a complex, high-performance machine. While fuel consumption remains notably high and insurance costs will inevitably reflect the vehicle's extreme performance potential and price point, the long-term collector appeal of such a pure-engine model remains incredibly strong, ensuring robust residual values for those who manage the ongoing running costs.
Maintaining a 720S is a significant commitment, with annual service costs averaging £3,000, though this is a standard entry fee for the tier of performance provided. The McLaren dealer network is well-established, and the 3-year unlimited mileage warranty provides necessary coverage for the complex drivetrain. Used prices have settled into a range that offers significant value for money compared to the original £225,000 sticker price, making it an attractive prospect for performance-focused buyers. While turbo and transmission maintenance costs are non-trivial, the car’s desirability and strong standing in the enthusiast community ensure that it remains a sound long-term investment.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 12Cilindri — Prestige brand legacy; Ferrari status ensures sustained long-term desirability and valuation stability; the McLaren 720S — 720S strong used market demand; appreciated after production ended. Characteristic of the Ferrari 12Cilindri: High-performance maintenance; routine servicing requires authorised dealer access for complex systems. For the McLaren 720S: McLaren certified pre-owned programme provides some ownership support. On the wallet the two diverge at £395,000 versus £125,000 — a £270,000 difference, with annual maintenance of £0 against £3,000, and warranty cover of 4 years / unlimited miles (original UK cover; servicing is separate) versus 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover).