This changes everything...
possibly.
McLaren being wrong about something is definitely a theory I could get my head around.
Us being wrong about something is also a possibility.
Actually, I think you are on to something for sure. If your current assumption proves to be correct, and the car at Iding Power is not #012, then here's another photo of it showing the brown interior, previously believed to be #012 taken at a Japan Motorsport Festival (year unknown).
I will add though that the Minichamps 1/43rd scale TAG-Heuer F1 has a tan interior.
Another thing that supports your theory is that I'm fairly certain the original owner of the "Aubergine" car (#016) was tied to Iding Power (probably it's owner, Mr Ide) and that color is one of the most unique you will find. Maybe he decided to trade up to something different, but still wanted a very unique color?
I also have to say that I will be disappointed if the car spotted at Iding Power is not #012 as that will mean that car is now MIA again.
>8^)
ER