McLaren takes the lid off its 765LT with limited edition Spider

McLaren has unveiled its third Spider variant in the history of its Longtail range, giving 765LT buyers the opportunity to experience supercar speeds with infinite headroom.

Limited to 765 units, the 765LT Spider is powered by the same 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine as the standard 765LT, producing 563kW of power and 800Nm of torque, all of which is sent to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

McLaren claims the 765LT Spider has more headroom than its Coupe sibling, even with the roof up.

The hardtop is capable of being retracted at speeds of up to 50km/h, folding away in just 11 seconds to provide even more space in the cabin.

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Tipping the scales at 1388kg, the Spider is 49kg heavier than the fixed-roof 765LT but 80kg lighter than the 720S Spider, coming at the cost of air-conditioning and an audio system – both of which are options to save weight.

In place of the audio system, McLaren has given the 765LT Spider a powered rear window which can be opened while the roof is up, allowing occupants to hear the V8's bellowing tones through its quad-exit, titanium exhaust system.

Aerodynamic downforce is up 25 per cent over the 720S Spider thanks to the 765LT's front splitter and rear diffuser, as well as a recalibrated active rear wing, providing better efficiency both when the roof is up and down.

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Bespoke Longtail springs and dampers feature in the Spider, as does a wider front track and lower ride height, coupled with McLaren's hydraulic Proactive Chassis Control II system – which does away with sway bars – to provide a more dynamic experience than the 720S.

Carried over from the hardtop 765LT is McLaren's 10-spoke ultra-lightweight alloy wheels, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tyres, specifically designed for the car by the two companies.

Despite missing out on air-con and a sound system as standard, the 765LT Spider features carbon fibre seats, a carbon fibre centre tunnel and floor, and Alcantara trim throughout.

Prices for the 765LT Spider start at GB£310,500 (AU$585,233) before VAT and options, with the McLaren Special Operations department offering its Clubsport Pack and LT Black Pack to owners for an unspecified premium.

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