Do McLarens Hold Their Value? Straight Talk on Supercar Depreciation

The answer is clear: most McLarens do not hold their value well, but this shouldn’t be a surprise. Like many high-performance supercars, they see steep depreciation, usually from mileage, aging, and the non-stop launch of new models. Regular editions slip in value as odometers climb and buyers start eyeing that shiny, just-launched coupe. But rare, limited edition McLarens can be a different story, with some even appreciating over time, thanks to exclusivity and collector demand. Whether buying, selling, or just dreaming, understanding the real story on McLaren values gives us an edge in this fast-shifting car market.

What Drives McLaren Depreciation?

No one doubts the thrill that comes with a McLaren. Their speed, reputation in motorsport, and innovative carbon fiber tech set them apart. But ask, “Do McLarens hold their value” in the real world, and the answer leans toward ‘not really’ for standard models. This steep depreciation comes from several sources:

• High MSRPs for new supercars. Buyers take a big hit once the car becomes a used McLaren and leaves the dealership.
• Constant rollout of new models keeps older models in the rearview mirror, pressing car values down across the market.
• Reliability concerns and costly maintenance impact both ownership experience and resale value, even when an extended warranty is in play.
• Strong competition from Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and even unexpected rivals like Audi, BMW, and the latest Corvette pushes McLaren vehicles onto more crowded lots.

The numbers don’t lie. A McLaren 650S, for example, dropped nearly 45% of its value in six years, while a McLaren 570S saw around 30% depreciation in half a decade. Mileage always matters, with extra miles erasing thousands from resale value, as explored in detail at Do McLarens Hold Their Value? A Story of Depreciation.

Limited Editions: The Exception to the Rule

Here’s where market trends flip the script. Not all McLaren models follow the steep drop pattern. Rare editions like the F1, P1, 720S Le Mans Special Edition, and Speedtail have proven to be hot investments. Why? It comes down to production numbers, rarity, and buyer demand.

• The McLaren F1, only 106 built, has moved from just over $673k new to auction prices well into the millions.
• The P1, capped at 375 units, now sells for double its original price.
• Even the 720S Le Mans Special Edition or the ultra-exclusive Sabre are causing a stir among collectors.

Collector appeal and market scarcity let these McLaren hypercars run laps around typical depreciation rates.

How McLaren Depreciation Compares to Other Exotics

When we stack up McLaren depreciation alongside rivals like Ferrari, Porsche, Lamborghini, and Aston Martin, some interesting trends stand out. McLarens sometimes depreciate faster, often because the brand is newer to the luxury car world, and because of rapid technological evolution.

• McLaren 720S: original MSRP near $326,000, dropping to $260,000 in just a few years, holding about 66% of its original value.
• Ferrari 488 GTB: after tends to keep around 75-80% of its value.
• Lamborghini Huracán: known for holding its value remarkably well. With an original MSRP just under $300K, even seven-year-old models often well for over $200K, proving that bold looks and legendary top speed come with lasting appeal.
• Porsche 911: offers better reliability and slower depreciation in many cases, especially for buyers seeking a daily-driving sports car.

Compared to these brands, McLarens shine for exclusivity, high-performance driving experience, and advanced materials like carbon fiber. But new models and quick tech shifts can make depreciation rates unpredictable.

Tips to Minimize Depreciation When Buying a McLaren

We have a few strategies to stretch your value, whether you’re buying your first McLaren or adding a used Artura or McLaren GT to your garage.

• Go used, not new: The sharpest car depreciation usually hits in the first two years. Shopping for a gently used McLaren puts that loss behind you.
• Focus on limited or special editions: These rare coupe and convertible models, like the 720S Spider or distinctive MSO builds, resist market drops better.
• Keep mileage low: Long drives are tempting, but each 5,000-10,000 miles can knock thousands from future resale value.
• Document maintenance, use original parts: A clean service history and genuine McLaren bits boost resale confidence.
• Leverage expertise: Selling or trading through a respected dealership like iLusso means better exposure and value for your exotic car.