# McLaren 720S — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the McLaren 720S on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mclaren-720s

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2019
- **Ideal trim**: Performance
- **Target mileage**: 5,000–15,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £160,000

## Why this model

The McLaren 720S is an absolutely incredible machine, offering a mind-blowing driving experience that few cars can match. It's blisteringly fast, handles like it's on rails, and has a truly exotic look that turns heads everywhere. For a used supercar, the 720S has settled into a sweet spot where the initial depreciation hit has been absorbed, but it's still modern enough to feel current and benefit from McLaren's technology. It's a fantastic choice if you're looking for a pure, unadulterated driving thrill and a car that feels truly special every time you get behind the wheel.

## What you should pay

Used McLaren 720S prices have softened slightly from their peak but remain strong for well-maintained examples. A 2019 model with sensible mileage represents good value as the steepest part of the depreciation curve has passed. While still a significant investment, you're getting a lot of supercar for your money compared to buying new. Prices can vary significantly based on specification, mileage, and condition, so be prepared to shop around.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Performance' trim is generally the best value for the 720S. It adds a good amount of visual flair with carbon fibre exterior upgrades (like the bonnet vents, mirror casings, and rear fender intakes) and a sportier Alcantara interior. This enhances the car's aggressive look and feel without adding the significant cost of the 'Luxury' trim's full leather interior, which some buyers might find less fitting for a track-focused supercar. It strikes a great balance between aesthetics, performance feel, and retaining strong resale value.

## What to check before you buy

- Electrical gremlins (sensors, infotainment glitches)
- Hydraulic fluid leaks (active suspension, door mechanisms)
- Dihedral door mechanisms can be temperamental
- Brake squeal (common with carbon ceramic brakes, not necessarily a fault)
- Various warning lights appearing (often sensor-related)

## Running costs

Running a McLaren 720S is not for the faint of heart, budget-wise! Fuel costs will be very high; at current UK super unleaded prices (around £2.00/litre) and achieving around 20 mpg, expect to pay roughly 10 pence per mile, so 5,000 miles a year could easily be £1,000 in fuel. Road tax (VED) for cars over £40,000 new is £520 annually on top of the standard £190, so £710 per year. Insurance will be extremely expensive, likely ranging from £3,000 to £10,000+ depending on your age, location, and driving history. Servicing is specialist and costly, easily £1,500-£3,000+ per year for routine maintenance, not including any unexpected repairs.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 710 bhp (720 PS)
- **Mpg**: Around 21.7 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Supercars like the 720S are complex machines built for extreme performance, not everyday reliability in the traditional sense. Expect high maintenance and occasional electronic niggles, which is typical for this class of vehicle. It's not a Toyota, but it's built to perform.
- **Safety Rating**: The McLaren 720S has not been crash-tested by Euro NCAP or similar organisations, which is common for low-volume supercars.

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Standard | £210,000 | £155,000 | Carbon fibre Monocage II chassis; Proactive Chassis Control II suspension; LED headlights |
| Performance | £225,000 | £165,000 | All Standard features; Carbon fibre exterior upgrade pack (bonnet vents, mirror casings, rear fender intakes); Dark Palladium exterior trim |
| Luxury | £230,000 | £160,000 | All Standard features; Full Nappa leather interior; Electric and heated memory seats |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £160,000 | 100% |
| 2027 | £150,000 | 93.75% |
| 2028 | £140,000 | 87.5% |
| 2029 | £132,000 | 82.5% |
| 2030 | £125,000 | 78.13% |

The sweet spot for buying a used McLaren 720S is typically around 3-5 years old. By this point, the initial steep depreciation from new has largely occurred, meaning you're letting the first owner take the biggest financial hit. The car is still relatively modern, benefits from contemporary technology, and often has lower mileage. Selling after another 3-4 years means you'll experience a slower rate of depreciation compared to buying brand new.

Total value lost since new: 21.87%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Ferrari 488 GTB
- Lamborghini Huracán Evo
- Porsche 911 Turbo S (992 generation)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.