Ferrari 488 vs McLaren 720S: Which One Should You Rent?

It's the question we get asked more than any other: "Should I rent the Ferrari or the Lamborghini?" Having spent thousands of kilometres behind the wheel of both, here's our honest, no-fluff comparison.

Spoiler: there is no wrong answer. But there is a right answer for you -- and it depends on what you are looking for.

The Matchup

On one side, the Ferrari 488 Spider -- a twin-turbo V8 mid-engine convertible with 661 hp, 0-100 in 3.0 seconds, and that unmistakable Ferrari character. On the other, the McLaren 720S -- a twin-turbo V8 with 710 hp, carbon fibre construction, and a visual impact that nothing else matches.

Engine & Sound

This is where they diverge most dramatically. The Ferrari 488's 3.9L twin-turbo V8 is surgical -- instant torque, relentless pull, and a cultured howl that builds with the revs. It's refined and ferocious at the same time.

The McLaren's 4.0L twin-turbo V8 is something else entirely. Lighter, more responsive, and with a savage top-end that pulls relentlessly to the redline. The exhaust pops and crackles on overrun in a way that's deeply addictive. If outright performance matters, the McLaren wins this round.

Driving Experience

The Ferrari is the more complete driver's car. The steering is telepathic, the gearbox shifts in milliseconds, and the turbo torque means you are never waiting for power. On the Sunshine Coast hinterland roads, it's sublime -- precise, composed, and endlessly rewarding.

The McLaren 720S, with its hydraulic suspension and carbon fibre tub, is more raw and more involving. It demands more from the driver, rewards commitment, and delivers a more visceral experience. It's the car for people who want to feel like they are piloting something from another planet.

Recommended

Ferrari 488 Spider

Twin-turbo precision with open-top thrills.

Check availability

Comfort & Practicality

For a full day of driving, the Ferrari 488 Spider is more comfortable. The seats are better bolstered, the ride is more compliant, and with the roof up it's genuinely civilised for longer journeys. There is even a usable boot for an overnight bag.

The McLaren is more focused. The cabin is tighter, the ride is firmer, and the twin-turbo howl on the highway demands your attention. It's a car built for impact, not endurance.

Street Presence

Both turn heads. But the McLaren turns more of them. Its dihedral doors, low stance and futuristic proportions are impossible to ignore. People will photograph it at petrol stations, traffic lights and car parks. The Ferrari is beautiful and exotic, but the McLaren is a spectacle.

The Verdict

Choose the Ferrari 488 Spider if: You are a driving enthusiast who wants a refined, open-top experience with turbo power and all-day comfort. Ideal for scenic road trips and weekend getaways.

Choose the McLaren 720S if: You want maximum visual impact, dihedral doors, and a raw driving experience that makes every journey feel like an event.

Can't decide? Rent both on different weekends. Seriously -- our self-drive prestige hire makes it easy to compare them yourself.