While the MP4/7A showed that it was able to keep up with the Williams FW14B in a straight line on several occasions, the active suspension on the Williams allowed it to better utilize its aerodynamic package, thus relegating the passively-suspended McLaren to 'best of the rest' status.
The MP4/7A occasionally matched the Williams FW14B in a straight line but benefited from the Williams' active suspension, which improved their aerodynamics. Consequently, the McLaren was relegated to being merely the best among the rest.