Outputting 616bhp from a 3.8-litre V8 twin-turbo engine, and fitted with a seven-speed SSG dual-clutch transmission, the new Spider gets impressively close to the hard-top’s performance figures.

The 0-60 sprint is dealt with in an equally rapid 3.1 seconds, while top speed is just a shade less at 204mph to the hard-top’s 207.

Painted in volcano yellow and surrounded by a line-up of other McLarens including the GT and Racing, the new 12C was also part of the Octane Jubilee Tour of Elegance – featuring an automotive icon for each of the Queen’s 60 years on the throne.Starting from Kensington Palace in central London, the cars drove in convoy to Windsor Castle, where they sat on display in the grounds.

Also featured in the collection were Bentley’s Speed 8 Le Mans winner, Aston Martin’s DB4 GT Zagato, and a Bugatti Type 57S Atalante – of which only 17 were made. McLaren wasn’t the only manufacturer displaying modern cars, either, with Bentley turning up with a selection of their new models.