2018 Buyers Guide

McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Andrew Nabors – March 16, 2018

2019 Porsche Cayenne: Price, Specs & Photos

All Three Engine Options Are Turbocharged Tungsten Carbide Brake Rotors Rear Wheel Steering Active Aerodynamics Front & Rear 2019 Porsche Cayenne IntroductionIf you are looking for the latest in German Sport Utilities, the 2019 Porsche Cayenne is all-new. An extensive diet of aluminum has dropped 143 lbs from the curb weight. The suspension remains independent with coil springs at each corner. But for buyers who demand the best, the air suspension system is also new. Instead of one chamber found on earlier versions, each strut has three airbags set at different pressures. This offers a smooth ride along with the ability to change height between 6.4" and 10.4". Borrowing technology from the smaller models, the new Cayenne is the first Porsche SUV to offer rear wheel steering. Porsche Unveils New 2019 Cayenne 2019 Porsche Cayenne EngineSuspension engineers also revised the PDCC system, which can disconnect the sway bars. It has lost the complex hydraulics to become a purely electrical device. A 48-volt servo can even twist each link in opposite directions, offering flat cornering up to 0.8G. The future of automotive electrical systems is in 48 volt systems because they operate more efficiently than 12-volt accessories. Three engine choices include a 3.0 liter V6 rated at 340 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. The Cayenne S has a 2.9 liter making 430 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, and the Cayenne Turbo packs a 4.0 liter V8 offering 550 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. 2019 Porsche Cayenne InteriorInside you will be treated to a 12.3" touchscreen mounted amidships under the Sport Chrono timepiece. Two 7" screens combine with analog gauges for a sleek and customizable instrument panel. Instead of the myriad of buttons and switches you are expecting, the shifter is flanked by a black touchpanel that features haptic feedback. The smooth surface goes piano black on command, and it makes the interior much more appealing than Cayennes of the past. 2019 Porsche Cayenne Specs: 0-60: 3.9 seconds 60-0 Braking: N/A 1/4 Mile: N/A Top Speed: 177 mph Horsepower: 550 hp Torque: 567 lb-ft Weight: 4,796 lbs 2019 Porsche Cayenne MSRPAt a starting price of $65,700, the 2019 Porsche Cayenne will arrive without the fancy suspension and with the 3.0-liter engine. If you are looking to spend $82,900, the 2019 Porsche Cayenne S has the mid-level 2.9-liter engine, and the fully loaded Cayenne Turbo starts at $124,600Browse Porsche Cayenne For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – January 17, 2018

2018 Bentley Continental Supersports: Price, Specs, & Review

Bentley has released the 2018 Continental Supersports, and it is almost unbelievable. Turbo technology has made great advances since 2013, so the new W12 engine produces 700 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque. Zero to sixty has been shaved to 3.4 seconds, as long as you have race fuel (above 98 octane) and sticky tires. Extensive use of carbon fiber has trimmed around 200 lbs of weight from the body, so the gross vehicle has a rating of only 6,063 lbs. But if you don’t want to wait for the new model, our dealers have amazing deals on the first generation cars. Sell My Bentley Continental GT: Get Your Cash Offer Starting on the inside, every surface and control is substantial. Machined metal and handstitched leather are built to last. The coupe is a real hardtop, with no pillar between the front windows and the quarter glass. When all four windows are down it almost feels like a convertible. If you are looking for a drop-top, the Bentley Continental GTC is worthy of consideration. 2018 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL SUPERSPORTS SPECS Price: $297,000 Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 Horsepower: 700 Torque: 750 lb-ft 0-60: 3.4 seconds Top Speed: 209 mph Transmission: 8-speed Touchtronic III

By Andrew Nabors – January 16, 2018

2018 Bentley Flying Spur W12 S: Price, Specs, & Review

When Bentley sets out to create a new flagship model, they fuse together only the best in performance, dynamics, and style. Enter the 2018 Flying Spur W12 S. This four-door vehicle, which is the first of its kind to reach top speeds of over 200 mph, now sits at the helm of the Flying Spur line-up. The luxury vehicle’s design incorporates stunning performance without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics.New Bentley Race Car is Downright Mean LookingPower and torque enhancements are provided by a 6.0-liter, twin-turbo W12 engine, which pumps out 626 horsepower and 605 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to the increase in power, the new Flying Spur tops out at 202 mph and reaches a sprint from 0-60 in 4.2 seconds. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a new responsive suspension tune, which improves handling and provides even more traction to provide the ultimate driving experience. The new Bentley Flying Spur W12 S is designed for the astute driver who wants the best in power, performance, and luxury, without having to compromise one for the other. Exclusive leather stitching, LED daytime running lights, black glossy accents, and a versatile color palette bring the new look together. The Flying Spur W12 S is also technologically inclined, offering riders a Touch Screen Remote and full infotainment system, as well as built-in WiFi technology.2018 BENTLEY FLYING SPUR W12 S SPECS Price: $297,000Engine: Twin-Turbo 6.0-liter W12Horsepower: 626Torque: 605 lb-ft0-60: 4.2 secondsTop Speed: 202 mphTransmission: 8-speed Touchtronic III Search Bentley Flying Spur For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – January 15, 2018

2018 BMW M4: Price, Specs, & Review

The BMW M4 needs little introduction thanks to its aggressive styling, which caught everyone's eyes when it first hit the streets. The new BMW M4 is BMW’s featherweight fighter blurs the lines between a track car and a street car, sporting a powerful 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine producing 431 horsepower. This increase in power and a whopping 7,300 rpm redline allows the M4 to make an effortless sprint from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.8 seconds. Not only does the 2018 BMW M4 Specs demand attention for its unique styling, it was designed to crush everyone at the track. BMW’s own M team uses their signature Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic in everything from the M4’s roof to its propeller shaft. The use of CFRP not only sheds over 80 kilograms from the previous model but also increases rigidity and performance. The design of the M4 not only looks good, but is also functional. Each curve uses the dark magic of aerodynamics to keep the M4 planted on all 4 tires. The 2018 BMW M4 GT4 Is Ready To Race Although the interior is mostly standard BMW styling, the M4 price offers a pair of very stout M performance seats and an optional 6-speed manual gearbox that allows the driver to be in full control of this lightweight beast. There is no surprise that BMW has created another great driving machine, but what sets the M4 apart is that it is easy to tame, and offers an amazing 34 mpg, which makes it easy to live with. 2018 BMW M4 SPECS Price: $67,700 Engine: 3.0-liter Turbocharged Horsepower: 431 Torque: 406 lb-ft 0-60: 4.3 seconds Top Speed: 155 mph (limited) Transmission: Six-speed manual gearbox (optional: Seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission) View BMW M4 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – January 12, 2018

2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: Price, Specs, & Review

Looking for a new track car? Consider the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE. It arrives with more carbon fiber and less weight. The Extreme Track Package offers forged wheels that are an inch shorter (19”), an inch wider all around and are wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3R summer tires. Developed exclusively for Camaro, they are 12 wide on the front and 12.7 in out back. You will have no problem finding grip on any surface. Multimatic DSSV shocks on all corners quickly adapt to any situation. Caster plates, ride height and the rear sway bar are all easily adjusted for ultimate grip. Carbon fiber can be found on the front splitter, new dive planes, hood, mirrors and the massive rear spoiler. They provide 300 lbs of downforce to keep you on the track. A non-folding rear seat and thinner glass are just a few of the weight-saving improvements. Sultan of Brunei's Amazing Collection The automatic transmission has also been axed. A six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching is the only gearbox offered, and it helps to make the 1LE 60 lbs lighter than a “normal” ZL1. The only feature left alone was the supercharged 6.2-liter V8. Chevrolet shares with the Corvette Z06 and the Cadillac CTS-V, it offers 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque to a 3.73 electronic differential. Like the transmission and engine oil, it has a dedicated cooling system for years of aggressive driving. 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Specs: Price: $69,995 Engine: 6.2-liter Supercharged V8 Horsepower: 650 Torque: 650 lb-ft 0-60: 3.6 seconds Top Speed: 198 mph Transmission: 6-speed manual View Camaro ZL1 For Sale

Auf 300 Exemplare limitiert: Neues Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet: Ultimative Open-Air-Exklusivität

By Andrew Nabors – January 09, 2018

2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S560: Price, Specs & Review

Mercedes-Maybach’s new 2018 S560 is part of a new lineup from the automaker that is full of the latest technology and more power than ever before. One example of available new technology is the Energizing Comfort Control, which combines all comfort and ambiance features. This includes massaging with fragrances, ambient lighting, soothing music, and the climate control system to provide for whatever mood you find yourself in. The New and Very Limited Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet It also has the ability to change based on your music. The system listens to the beats per minute (bpm) and determines what settings you need. Under the hood of the new S560 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, rated at 463 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. A surprising fact is that the new engine consumes almost ten percent less fuel than its predecessor. This feat was accomplished thanks in part to the cylinder deactivation, which greatly increases the efficiency of the engine. Inside, the driver will be greeted by a high-resolution widescreen display that contains virtual instrument gauges, all vital information, and the infotainment controls. Combine this breathtaking display with the aforementioned Energizing Comfort Control, and you have one sublime ride. Stay with us for all your Mercedes-Maybach price updates and news. 2018 Mercedes-Maybach S560 Specs: Price: $168,600 Engine: 4.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8 Horsepower: 463 Torque: 516 lb-ft 0–60: 4.9 seconds Top Speed: 155 mph Transmission: 9-speed automatic Browse Mercedes-Maybach S560 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – January 03, 2018

2018 Jaguar Project 8: Price, Specs, & Review

The Project 8 is the second Collector’s Edition vehicle crafted by Jaguar’s performance division, SVO. This wild version of the Jaguar XF is advertised as the most powerful performance Jaguar to date, the Project 8 is equipped with a staggering 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine capable of 592 horsepower and a top speed of 200 mph. But power isn’t its only attribute. A body construction of premium grade, ultra lightweight aluminum—crafted by Jaguar—and carbon fiber means minimal weight, which enhances the driving experience. This four-door powerhouse is engineered with sport-derived suspension and all-wheel drive to maximize the road experience.Ferrari 458 Italia For SaleThe Project 8 might be a sedan, but its speed and handling capabilities match the exhilarating ride of a two-door sports vehicle. The vehicle’s sporty exterior includes a rear spoiler and sweeping lines that characterize the modern sports car, while the interior offers a fusion of sport and comfort. The front Performance seats are bucket in style and covered in Ebony leather, while the back seats afford passengers comfort and luxury. Enthusiasts and car collectors will be happy to know that only 300 units will be produced, solidifying the Project 8 as a true limited edition.2018 Jaguar Project 8 Specs: Price: $187,500Engine: 5.0-liter Supercharged V8Horsepower: 592Torque: 516 lb-ft0-60: 3.3 secondsTop Speed: 200 mphTransmission: 8-speed automatic Search Jaguar XF For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 12, 2017

2018 Maserati Levante S Specs, Price, Photos & Review

Italian style and the comfort of an SUV come together in the Maserati Levante S. According to Maserati, the SUV “combines spaciousness and coupe lines while achieving the best aerodynamic efficiency in its segment.” A powerful V6 engine pumps out 430 horsepower through an 8-speed gearbox, achieving a top speed of 164 mph and a 0-60 acceleration in 5.2 seconds.LARTE Design's New Shtorm For The Maserati LevanteA pioneer in luxury, Maserati pulled out all the stops for the SUV as the brand would have for any of its coupes. Additionally, the Levante S features on-road and off-road capabilities so buyers can experience the best in luxury and the best in SUV capability. While the Levante S can handle the rugged environment, the fine Italian leather, wood or carbon fiber trims will always keep the passengers in luxury. The Maserati Levante S specs are sure to capture the eye of SUV enthusiasts.2018 MASERATI LEVANTE S SPECS Price: $83,000Engine: 3.6-liter Twin-Turbo V6Horsepower: 430 hpTorque: 427 lb-ft0-60: 5.2 secondsTop Speed: 164 mphTransmission: 8-speed automatic View Maserati Levante For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 08, 2017

2018 BMW M5 Specs, Price, Photos, & Review

Bavarian fans all over the world who have been waiting for the new 5 Series super sedan can now rejoice with the 2018 BMW M5, because this updated version doesn’t disappoint. Starting with a new chassis, CFRP has been substituted for metal in many places. Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic is how the larger 7 Series is lighter than its competition, and it is now implemented in the M5. By creating a lighter platform it improves the power-to-weight ratio, and that in turn creates better performance on all levels.BMW Unveils Performance Parts for the new 2018 M5The M engineers at BMW have refined their 4.4-liter V8, and have produced 40 more horsepower and 53 lb-ft of torque. You will have 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. At only 1,800 rpm you received a spirited punch of torque, and it remains through 5,700 rpm. Boost is upped to almost 25 psi, allowing the engine to pull strongly at any rpm you accelerate from. Power like this is brutal, which is why an AWD system has been put in place. The system is named M Xdrive, and it incorporates the latest in torque vectoring and locking differentials, allowing the M5 to be launched to 60 mph in only 3.2 seconds.2018 BMW M5 SPECS Price: $102,600Engine: Twin-Turbo 4.4-liter V8Horsepower: 600Torque: 553 lb-ft0-60: 3.2 secondsTop Speed: 155 mph (limited)Transmission: 8-speed M Steptronic Check Out BMW M5 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 06, 2017

2018 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Specs, Price, Photos, & Review

Get ready for some nice updates on the 2018 Mercedes Benz S-Class. Taking inspiration from the AMG GT-R, updated front and rear styling will arrive on the coupes, sedans, and cabriolets. All good things must end, so the 5.5-liter V8 is gone. The 2018 Mercedes Benz S65 AMG price arrives with 630 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Power comes from the 6.0-liter V12 bi-turbo engine. Handling the power is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission. RENNtech AMG GT R: The Orange Beast This system has tailor-made settings for the S65, resulting in quick upshifts and downshifts. Put the drive mode into “Sport+” and the transmission is even more responsive than before. Inside, Mercedes Benz will treat you to a new instrument display. Twin 12.3-in screens offer a seamless readout of gauges, navigation, and audio. Wireless charging will keep you connected and an updated Distronic system will keep you safe. The computer uses GPS navigation along with advanced radar to adjust the active cruise control. It will slow as you approach tollbooths, exit ramps and roundabouts to match traffic speeds and resume on the other side. Sedans also receive Active Curve Control, which was previously exclusive to the coupe/cabrio. The air suspension lowers the inboard side of a corner by three degrees, lowering the G forces on driver and passengers, making it a perfect daily driver. 2018 MERCEDES-BENZ S65 AMG SPECS Price: $236,250 Engine: 6.0-liter Twin-Turbo V12 Horsepower: 621 hp Torque: 738 lb-ft 0-60: 4 seconds Top Speed: 186 mph Transmission: 7 or 9-speed automatic View Mercedes Benz S65 AMG For Sale

2018 Buyers Guide

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