After a positive reaction to the MSO 650S Coupe Concept shown in China earlier this year, McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has announced that it will make available 50 bespoke examples of its exotic 650S sports car in both coupe and spider versions. Replete with many styling cues from the concept – such as the prominent front splitter, air intakes, side blades and rear diffuser – the first production MSO 650S will make its debut at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Produced by the McLaren Special Operations division that creates personalized upgrades and modifications for all McLaren models, the new MSO 650S was produced in close collaboration with McLaren Automotive Design Director, Frank Stephenson. Though there's no word on any performance enhancements – apart from a program of weight reduction – there are quite a few carbon fiber styling upgrades and a new range of paint finishes to give the 650S a truly unique look.
With an appropriately distinctive metallic content, the paint colors include; "Papaya Spark," which is a new take on McLaren's traditional orange; "Agrigan Black," the metallic black with a ruby red metal flake that was featured on the original concept ;and "Sarigan Quartz," a metallic silver with a gold infusion that will make its first appearance at Goodwood. All of which will help identify the MSO from other, more common, versions of the 650S (if "common" is a word that can actually be applied to a McLaren).
Adding to its distinctive look, the bespoke McLaren will also sport a set of unique "super lightweight," diamond-patterned alloy wheels, held in place by titanium wheel bolts, which McLaren claims saves more than 4 kg (9 lbs) over the standard 650S rims.
Of course, the interior has also been upgraded to further reflect the exclusivity of the MSO 650S, with carbon black leather upholstery, Alcantara trims and satin lacquered carbon fiber details. To contrast all of these matte finishes, a gloss coat has been applied to the air vents and switchgear. And – just to be absolutely certain that no one mistakes this new car for a garden-variety 650S – a dedication plaque with Frank Stephenson's signature emblazoned upon it is attached to the sill panel.
McLaren hasn't specifically stated what will feature under the hood, but if it retains the same powerplant as the original concept, it will be powered by a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 pumping out 641 hp.
Lucky purchasers of the MSO 650S will also receive a Frank Stephenson-signed sketch and a MSO branded leather holdall in black "carbon fiber" leather, with Alcantara lining.
Prices start at £252,500 ($430,000 US) for the coupe and £272,500 ($464.000 US) for the spider, with deliveries slated to begin before the end of the year.
Source: McLaren
