The McLaren 675LT was inspired by the legendary McLaren F1 GTR Longtail and developed as a lighter, more focused evolution of the 650S. Produced from 2015 to 2017, it was available in 675LT Coupe or 675LT Spider trims, both powered by a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 666 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. With extensive weight reduction, revised aerodynamics, retuned suspension, and a sharper chassis, the 675LT was designed as a more track-focused version of McLaren's standard supercar lineup.

The 675LT arrived at an interesting point in McLaren's history. While the limited-production P1 had already captured most of the attention, the 675LT offered a much more straightforward approach to performance. Based on the 650S, McLaren stripped weight, increased power, revised the suspension and steering, and added more aggressive aerodynamic components to create something that felt considerably more focused.

Sure, the P1 was the more exotic machine, with its hybrid powertrain, Formula 1-inspired technology, and nearly 900 horsepower. However, it also entered a completely different realm in terms of cost and complexity. The 675LT was much easier to understand: less weight, more power, no hybrid system, and a chassis designed around driver involvement.

At launch, the 675LT started around $349,500, compared with roughly $1.15 million for the P1. That's a massive difference for a car that could deliver an equally serious experience on the road, even if it could never match the P1's outright performance. The 675LT also offered something the P1 couldn't quite match: a more direct, mechanical driving experience without having to chase hypercar speeds.

Then came the 720S, which arrived in 2017 with more power, greater speed, and newer technology. On paper, it was the obvious upgrade. But the 675LT has a character that makes it difficult to dismiss simply because something newer came along. Its hydraulic suspension, steering feel, reduced weight, and aggressive chassis give it a distinct personality that newer McLarens don't necessarily replicate.

The Longtail name is also more than a marketing exercise. Inspired by the F1 GTR Longtail, the 675LT uses extended and revised bodywork, a larger rear wing, and additional aerodynamic changes to improve high-speed performance. With only around 500 Coupes and 500 Spiders produced, the 675LT has the rarity and identity collectors tend to look for.

For enthusiasts, that's ultimately what makes the 675LT so interesting. It sits between the technological spectacle of the P1 and the newer performance of the 720S, while offering a focused and relatively analog driving experience. With limited production, 666 horsepower, and a strong connection to McLaren's Longtail heritage, the 675LT has all the ingredients to become one of the more desirable modern McLarens.