This article examines the impending re-auction of a remarkable 2016 McLaren 675LT Spider, a vehicle that epitomizes automotive rarity and performance. Adorned in a striking MSO Gulf color scheme and having covered just over 2,000 miles, this specific model is returning to Mecum's auction block. The timing of this sale is particularly pertinent, as values for high-end McLarens continue to rise, and the manufacturer itself is preparing to introduce its first hybrid SUV. This confluence of factors positions the 675LT Spider as a highly desirable collectible, representing a crucial moment in the brand's evolution towards more diversified vehicle offerings.
The 2016 McLaren 675LT Spider is an extraordinary machine, part of a limited production run of only 500 units worldwide. Its unique Gulf-inspired paintwork, meticulously applied by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), sets it apart. This car previously belonged to the distinguished Bob Patrella Collection and is now making a comeback to the auction scene, commanding a price guide that mirrors the escalating market demand for low-mileage, rare McLaren models. The vehicle's allure is amplified by its pedigree and its nearly untouched condition, underscoring its appeal to discerning collectors and investors.
Under the hood, the 675LT Spider houses McLaren’s potent 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, generating 675 PS. This power is channeled to the rear wheels via a sophisticated seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The 'LT' designation signifies its 'Longtail' lineage, characterized by significant weight reduction, enhanced downforce, and a more aggressive suspension calibration compared to the 650S Spider. Key aerodynamic features include a fixed rear wing, a deeper front splitter, and an extended tail section. McLaren proudly states that this vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds and achieve a top speed exceeding 200 mph, cementing its status as a true performance icon.
The aesthetic appeal of this particular 675LT Spider is further heightened by its racing-inspired design. The MSO paint job, meticulously recreating the classic blue and orange Gulf racing colors, with matching orange wheels, pays homage to a rich motorsports heritage. This visual tribute connects the modern supercar to the purist's ideal of simpler, lighter, and more driver-focused vehicles from earlier eras, such as the 1990s, when performance was paramount.
The current market dynamics significantly influence the estimated value of this 675LT Spider. With its minimal odometer reading of approximately 2,000 miles and a history of being part of a high-profile collection, its distinctive specifications make it a standout even among a crowded field of supercars. Previously, it fetched a considerable sum in the mid-six figures, and since then, the market for rare McLarens has only seen an upward trajectory. This trend is also evident in the trading of ultra-low-mileage F1 models, where their soaring values create a halo effect that boosts the attractiveness of other serious 'driver-focused' McLarens like the 675LT Spider.
Beyond its inherent value and performance, this Gulf-liveried 675LT Spider holds symbolic importance due to McLaren's evolving product strategy. As McLaren expands its portfolio to include its first SUV—a plug-in hybrid model with a V8 engine designed for daily utility rather than track performance—the LT family, including the 675LT Spider, increasingly represents the pinnacle of McLaren's traditional identity. These cars are pure expressions of mid-engine, lightweight, single-purpose supercars, serving as a reminder of the brand's foundational ethos amidst its future diversification.