The McLaren MP4-12C’s reported Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time is 7 minutes 28 seconds. Classic Driver attributed the time to Sport Auto journalist and Nordschleife driver Horst von Saurma-Jeltsch. It is a historical magazine-test result, not a current Nürburgring-official lap record.
Who drove the MP4-12C’s 7:28 lap?
Classic Driver’s period report credits Horst von Saurma-Jeltsch of Sport Auto with the timed 0:07:28. The article separately says McLaren chief test driver Chris Goodwin had driven the car at the Nordschleife “back in the spring.” That earlier circuit running should not be confused with the specific lap attributed to von Saurma-Jeltsch. The report does not give an exact date for either activity. Classic Driver’s report
What did “third-fastest” mean?
At the time of its report, Classic Driver described 7:28 as the third-fastest time for a road-going sports car, behind the Porsche 911 GT2 RS and Gumpert Apollo Sport. That is a period comparison reported by Classic Driver, not a current ranking or a Nürburgring record-table position.
Was 7:28 an official Nürburgring record?
It should not be presented as one. The Nürburgring says that official lap records have been recorded, confirmed and published by the circuit since the 2019 season. The MP4-12C time is reported second-hand as a Sport Auto test result, and the available account does not establish that it was submitted to or confirmed under the circuit’s official process. Nürburgring Record Drives
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- Iconic Movie Model – Inspired by the McLaren MP4-12C featured in Furious 7, capturing the sleek design and cinematic essence
- Premium Die-Cast Quality – Crafted from durable die-cast metal for a realistic weight and feel
- Interactive Features – Includes opening doors and meticulously detailed interiors, perfect for collectors and fans
- Compact 1:32 Scale – Ideal for displaying in collections, imaginative play, or as a memorable gift for Fast & Furious enthusiasts
- Jada Toys – Known for delivering high-quality collectibles that bring the thrill of cinema to life
Why the lap formats matter
The Nürburgring’s current official Nordschleife record attempt uses a full 20.832 km lap, driven and timed with a flying start from the official start/finish line in track section T13. The circuit’s process also specifies calibrated timing technology, notary supervision and documentation by a neutral testing organization that the vehicle is in standard condition. Record attempts are classified in categories defined by Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA); the circuit also describes series-production documentation requirements and exceptions to scrutineering for racing cars, special vehicles, and prototypes or concept cars. Nürburgring Record Drives
The Classic Driver account does not establish the MP4-12C test’s exact course length, timing setup, tires, weather, or vehicle specification. Without those details, its 7:28 cannot be directly equated with a lap completed under the current official format, nor can the time alone establish how it would rank against other laps measured differently.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 1/24 car in metal
- Vehicle screwed on base, in blister: no box
- A great gift idea!
Rank #3
- Realistic Replica: This 1:36 scale die-cast metal model car is a detailed miniature replica of the iconic McLaren 720s supercar.
- Opening Doors: The model features opening doors that allow you to admire the intricate interior detailing.
- Pull-Back Action: Engaging the pull-back mechanism enables this toy car to zip across smooth surfaces.
- Vibrant Color: Showcasing a rich white hue, this miniature captures the sleek and stylish design of the full-size McLaren.
- Compact Size: Measuring approximately 5 inches in length, this model is perfectly sized for display or playtime.
Rank #2
- Kit features a multi-part eight-cylinder engine, a detailed suspension, and a detailed cockpit
- True-to-life chassis with diffuser, realistic front and rear wings, authentic tires, rotating wheels
- Authentic decals for the MP4-25 in the GP versions for Bahrain, Canada and Great Britain
- Illustrated assembly guide
- Requires model glue and paint not included
What the reported time does—and does not—tell you
- Reported time: 7 minutes 28 seconds, as relayed by Classic Driver from Sport Auto.
- Driver credited: Horst von Saurma-Jeltsch.
- Timing context: a period magazine test; the report gives no exact date for the timed run.
- Historical comparison: described by Classic Driver as third-fastest among road-going sports cars at that time.
- Official status: not established as a Nürburgring-confirmed record.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
