Technically, the McLaren 650 S is based on the McLaren MP4-12C, which the company produced between 2011 and 2014. It was originally unveiled to the public in March 2014.

It is powered by the same 3.8-liter V8 biturbo mid-engine, known as M838T, which has been increased to 478 kW (650 horsepower), and has the same CfK chassis as the 12C. The car’s innovative scissor doors, which open to almost 90 degrees while simultaneously swinging upward and taking up a little less room than traditional doors, are a striking aesthetic element.