765LT
Introduced in 2020, the McLaren 765LT is a highly focused development of the 720S built around the brand’s “Longtail” philosophy. Its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 drives the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the carbon-fiber structure, revised aerodynamics, and extensive weight reduction place driver involvement above everyday comfort. McLaren presents the car as a 765 PS model, a figure commonly listed as 755 bhp in English-language specifications, with 800 Nm of torque. The 2020 coupe was followed by the 765LT Spider in 2021. Both body styles were produced in limited numbers, making the model one of the more exclusive derivatives of McLaren’s 720S-based Super Series family.
Variants by year
2021
2020
Model summary
Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.
Model introduction
Introduced in 2020, the McLaren 765LT is a highly focused development of the 720S built around the brand’s “Longtail” philosophy. Its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 drives the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the carbon-fiber structure, revised aerodynamics, and extensive weight reduction place driver involvement above everyday comfort. McLaren presents the car as a 765 PS model, a figure commonly listed as 755 bhp in English-language specifications, with 800 Nm of torque. The 2020 coupe was followed by the 765LT Spider in 2021. Both body styles were produced in limited numbers, making the model one of the more exclusive derivatives of McLaren’s 720S-based Super Series family.
History
The 765LT name belongs to the modern generation of McLaren “Longtail” road cars. After the 675LT based on the 650S and the 600LT, McLaren applied the same formula to the 720S: more power, lower mass, greater aerodynamic performance, and a sharper track-oriented setup. The car was revealed in 2020 as a substantially more focused alternative to the standard 720S. Its changes extend well beyond the engine. The 765LT uses revised and lengthened bodywork, a larger diffuser, an active rear wing, a titanium exhaust with four outlets, and lightweight components throughout the cabin and chassis. McLaren announced a limited run of 765 coupe examples. In July 2021, the company introduced the 765LT Spider, also limited to 765 cars. It retains the coupe’s performance-oriented character while adding a one-piece electrically operated retractable hardtop that opens or closes in 11 seconds. The Spider therefore represents the open-air version of the 765LT concept rather than a separate mechanical generation.
Generations
The McLaren 765LT is not divided into multiple clearly defined generations. It is a single development based on the 720S technical platform and positioned within the Super Series family. The main distinction is between two body styles: coupe and Spider. The coupe was the first interpretation of the 765LT and was revealed in 2020. The Spider followed in 2021 with structural changes required by its retractable roof, while retaining the same 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8, seven-speed transmission, and broadly similar performance philosophy. For that reason, it is more accurate to describe the model in terms of body-style derivatives rather than separate generations. Differences between individual cars can also reflect market specifications, optional equipment, and McLaren Special Operations personalization. Lightweight seats, high-performance brake equipment, and carbon-fiber panels were not necessarily fitted to every example. Correct identification therefore depends on considering the model year, body style, and original specification together rather than relying on a single visual detail.
Key differences
The coupe and Spider share most of their mechanical package: a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8, rear-wheel drive, a seven-speed SSG transmission, and a carbon-fiber chassis structure. The most obvious difference is the roof. The 765LT Spider uses a one-piece electrically operated retractable hardtop, with McLaren quoting 11 seconds for opening or closing. It also has a powered rear window that allows the engine and titanium exhaust note to be enjoyed with the roof raised. Weight and structural stiffness can differ from the coupe because of the roof mechanism and the reinforcement required for an open body. McLaren nevertheless states that the Spider is 80 kg lighter than a 720S Spider. Official performance figures remain very close, with 0–100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and a top speed of approximately 332 km/h in McLaren’s specifications. Differences between cars may also reflect tires, seats, brake packages, and optional weight-saving equipment.
Photo recognition
A 765LT is first distinguished from a regular 720S by its much more aggressive aerodynamic treatment. Key clues include the extended front splitter, sculpted side skirts, prominent rear diffuser, and large active rear wing. The high-mounted titanium exhaust system with four outlets is another important identifier. Depending on specification, the front bodywork may feature additional vents and extensive carbon-fiber panels. Inside, lightweight bucket seats derived from the Senna, reduced trim, and 765LT branding can help confirm the model, although these features were not universal on every car. On the Spider, the retractable hardtop and powered rear window are the most dependable visual clues. Caution is needed with post-delivery modifications: wheels, carbon parts, exhaust systems, and MSO color choices can significantly change the appearance. Build documentation, the vehicle specification sheet, and the numbered production record are more reliable than visual inspection alone.
Important versions
The model range covered here contains two principal body-style derivatives. The 765LT coupe is associated with the 2020 model year and represents the original version, with a closed body optimized for low weight and aerodynamic efficiency. The 765LT Spider is associated with 2021 and applies the same mechanical philosophy to an open-top configuration. McLaren announced 765 examples for each body style, contributing to their rarity. Further differences between individual cars generally concern market equipment, weight-saving options, brake systems, seats, and McLaren Special Operations personalization. The “Base” label should therefore be understood as the coupe designation used in the model-year data, not as a mechanically simplified version of the Spider.
References
- McLaren 765LT Spider - Light & Extreme Convertible SupercarMcLaren Automotive
- The McLaren 765LT Spider: extreme performance and new heights of driver engagementMcLaren Automotive via PR Newswire
- 2021 McLaren 765LT Review, Pricing, and SpecsCar and Driver
- 2021 McLaren 765LT ReviewEdmunds
- https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2021-mclaren-765lt-first-drive-reviewmotortrend.com
- https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a34195638/2021-mclaren-765lt-drive/caranddriver.com
- https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/archive/article/january-2021/30/2020-mclaren-765lt-road-test-how-to-train-your-mclarenmotorsportmagazine.com
Frequently asked questions
- What years was the McLaren 765LT produced?
- ScanRacer's referenced versions cover 2020 - 2021.
- How many McLaren 765LT examples are documented on ScanRacer?
- 11 published scans from 8 members, with the latest photo added in August 2026.