AdminIn itself, extreme weather can be a remarkable spectacle, terribly dramatic and, yes, often deadly. But advertising a weather-damaged car as a “sensational flood opportunity?” That’s daring. Perhaps something has been lost in translation, or is a once-in-a-generation rainstorm as rare as the McLaren being promoted?
The answer is no.
The supercar in question is a 2022 McLaren 720S Coupé. That is the base model. Yes, when new it had a price tag of $301,500, but in its current condition the 720S is nowhere near the “excellent condition and presentation” the auction listing claims. The proof is in their own photos and, oh, the fact that it is paid at the insurer’s request.
The McLaren has an estimated 4,000 km (2,485 miles) on the odometer. Could be more, could be less. No one knows for sure because the car won’t start. The engine is running manually, but the vehicle is listed as ‘non-mobile’. Beautiful condition, eh?
The exterior appears well maintained, but does have blemishes, including a missing “s” emblem, scratches under the front bumper, and possibly dents or scratches on a door panel. The seller’s images do not provide much clarity about this. But hey, no visible rust! The interior looks good, apart from a noticeable water stain on the driver’s headrest. Pictures also won’t tell you if the leather or upholstery smells like mold.
The McLaren, located in the UAE but sold through Australian online auction house Autorola Marketplace, is a survivor of the Persian Gulf floods of April 2024. In one day, the region received a year’s worth of rain. Some areas experience two years of downpours, which is absolutely crazy.
Across the Middle East, there were at least 46 deaths from flooding, the majority in Oman, where 19 of the 20 reported deaths were children. Others remain missing. The circumstances are sadder than anything to celebrate in an auction ad, but I guess that’s why I’m not in sales.
Cars with water damage always require some personal detective work, and pre-purchase inspections of McLaren 720s are available by appointment. Any potential bidder should schedule one, as the vehicle will be sold as is. Keep in mind that “as is” can also mean the inability to close doors without becoming trapped. Probably due to its in-op status, there are no images of the McLaren with the doors or hood fully closed. And the rear spoiler appears to be stuck in the upright, active aero position.
With three days to go, the highest bid is currently AUD75,700 ($49,232), which seems reasonable for what is likely a life-size exotic car paperweight. But imagine how sensational it would look as driveway decor instead of a garden gnome.
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