It seems like the McLaren 650S has only just arrived on the scene, but already it is to get a limited edition. Inspired by the MSO (McLaren Special Operations) Concept that was shown at the Beijing motor show earlier this year, the MSO 650S will debut at this week's Goodwood Festival of Speed with order books opening soon after. Just 50 examples will be produced.
Exterior
Differentiating the MSO from the common-or-garden variety 650S are a host of features that have been carried over from the Beijing concept. Chief amongst these is a liberal smattering of satin-finished carbon fibre, which has been placed around the extended side blades and in the rear bumper. The back end of the car also has what McLaren describes as a 'more aggressive rear diffuser.'
The MSO paint shop has been busy too, as three new hues have been developed specifically for the car, including Papaya Spark (a twist on McLaren Orange), Agrigan Black (a deep metallic black with ruby metal flake) and Sarigan Quartz, which is said to be a vibrant metallic silver with subtle gold infusion. Sounds good enough to eat! The wheels have also visited the paint shop, receiving a coat of Palladium to go along with their titanium wheel nuts.
Interior
Liberal use of carbon fibre continues inside where satin-lacquered weave is joined by a gloss finish to the air vents and Active Dynamics Panel (centre console to you and I). The seats have also been covered in carbon black leather and Alcantara while the finishing touch is a Frank Stephenson (head designer of McLaren) signed plaque.
Mechanicals
Having spent so much time adding carbon fibre everywhere it would appear MSO forgot to tinker around under the bonnet. No real shame there though as the standard 650S's 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine is hardly lacking. Whether the MSO changes make any difference to the car's 3.0-second 0-100km/h sprint remains to be seen.
Anything else?
Mr Stephenson not only took time out of his day to personally hand sign fifty plaques, but he also doodled fifty sketches, all of which will be provided with the car. Alongside the signed sketch will be a bespoke leather holdall that is made from (you guessed it) black carbon fibre leather with carbon black handles and stitching, and an Alcantara lining.