Aftermarket

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 – July 01, 2020

Watch the Brabus Shadow Collection in Action!

When the Buschmann family decided to go boating, nothing was up to the quality standards of their Brabus cars & SUVs. That is why they have partnered with Jobe for a limited lineup of Brabus aquatic accessories. The collection consists of PFDs, body warmers, standup particleboard, and a 3-person inflatable raft. It comes with a canopy for lounging by the beach, 4 cupholders, a dozen handles, an inflator pump, and durable duffel for storage. Pulled to the riverside by a Brabus 800 G63 Widestar, the award-winning Brabus Shadow 900 is the perfect boat for any occasion. Only 777 examples of each Jobe Shadow Collection will be made, so get yours before the boat ramp gets crowded. Stay safe on the water, don't flip people off the raft unless they truly deserve it, and obey all boating laws. View Brabus x Jobe Collection

By Edward Jones – May 20, 2020

BRABUS Unveils New INVICTO Armored G-Class

BRABUS has now unveiled their new "INVICTO Shelter Cell," a new protective cell that will protect occupants from small arms fire, as well as explosives. This new advancement by BRABUS has given way to their new INVICTO vehicle that's based on the G-Class. On top of the protective cell, BRABUS offers further protection through bulletproof glass. During testing by the German National Testing and Certification Office for Weapons and Security Engineering, the INVICTO withstood 7.62x39 caliber rounds (ammunition used in rifles like the AK-47), hand grenades and 12.5-kg PETN explosive charges. Needless to say, the INVICTO can most definitely protect it's passengers. There are three different variants that BRABUS is offering the INVICTO in, INVICTO Luxury, INVICTO Pure, and INVICTO Mission. Each of these variants offers different styles as well as some serious capabilities. They have even created a variant that's specifically designed for armed forces, police, emergency services, special forces and security guard companies. You can learn more about these variants down below. See All BRABUS for Sale INVICTO Luxury This is the top of the range version, It comes with the BRABUS Widestar widebody, fine leather interior, Alcantara and a lot more. If you're looking for protection as well as luxury, this if the pick for you. INVICTO Pure For the INVICTO Pure, it's indistinguishable from the production version on the outside but it comes packing in protective cell and 20-inch INVICTO wheels. Looking to go undercover with some protection? Then you need the INVICTO Pure. INVICTO Mission BRABUS designed the INVICTO Mission for armed forces, police, emergency services, special forces and security guard companies. It includes 20-inch off-road tires, winch and more that make it perfect for rough terrain.

By Andrew Nabors – April 27, 2020

BRABUS 800 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ For Sale

Owning a supercar is beneficial to your health. Smiling as you unlock your BRABUS releases endorphins that promote happiness, virility, and a feeling of accomplishment. It was only a matter of time before the masters in Bottrop worked their magic on the new AMG sedan. As a CTS-V owner, I welcome the competition even though I would have to sell both kidneys to reach this level of power. This is why you need one: BRABUS 800 AMG GT 63 Power BRABUS performance kit PowerXtra B 40S: 800 horsepower & 737 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 RPM (electronically limited) BRABUS valve-controlled sports exhaust incl. ceramic coated tailpipes 0.84 mm and carbon fibre housing BRABUS Monoblock Z light alloy wheels "Platinum Edition" 21"x 10.5" Front and 22"x 12" Rear BRABUS Massive Carbon Ceramic Brakes BRABUS Tuned Airmatic sports-suspension Exterior BRABUS front spoiler glossy carbon fibre BRABUS front bumper add-on glossy carbon fibre BRABUS rear diffusor glossy carbon fibre BRABUS rear bumper add-on glossy carbon fibre BRABUS double-B Logo for radiator grille BRABUS radiator grille Logo, illuminated BRABUS special painting of all exterior chrome parts in car color BRABUS carbon mirror caps BRABUS logo for bonnet BRABUS logo for boot lid Interior BRABUS fine leather interior (leather/alcantara) Nappa black with red stripes and grey stitching Headliner in alcantara A- and C- pillars in alcantara Set of sunvisors in alcantara Gear lever in leather BRABUS floor mats in leather / alcantara combined Design-Appointment in "shadow chrome" (168 parts) BRABUS entrance panels BRABUS aluminium pedal pads BRABUS doorlock pins 4-pcs. BRABUS shift paddles View Listing Contact BRABUS USA Website: BRABUS Cars For SalePhone: 949-449-1596Address: Brabus-Allee, Bottrop, Germany

By Andrew Nabors – April 15, 2020

New BRABUS Documentary Takes You Behind The Scenes Of The...

The Frankfurt Auto Show was an unprecedented success last year, so we decided to visit BRABUS Headquarters in Bottrop, Germany. They have been our client for over 3 decades, building the ultimate examples of Mercedes-Benz and AMG models. We spent a week with their automotive, aircraft, and marine divisions. We saw as much as they would allow, but a camera crew would have been imposing on their hospitality. That's why we are happy to share the latest documentary from Welt. They are a popular YouTube channel that focuses on history and technology, both of which are in abundance at BRABUS. What you are about to see is unprecedented in the aftermarket, so tell us which BRABUS model you like most in the comments below. Browse BRABUS For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – March 17, 2020

BRABUS Adventure 4x4 Squared Goes Off the Trail in Dubai

BRABUS knows a thing or two about automotive excursions, as you can tell from their phenomal Adventure range for the Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUVs. Don't believe me? Check out their most recent video of a BRABUS Adventure 4x4 Squared going way off of the trail in Dubai. In the video below, you'll see just how capable their refined G-Class SUVs can be. But what's even better is how great this SUV looks strutting its stuff on the dirt. Let's be real, if you're going to go off-road, you want something that looks like an absolute beast when tackling the trails or making your own. See All G550 4x4 Squareds For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – March 12, 2020

BRABUS Wins Best Tuner by Auto Motor und Sport

Germany has no lack of aftermarket companies, so it might seem hard to choose the leader of the pack. However, one brand stands far ahead of the others. Not simply in satisfied customers, but also as an OEM supplier for automotive, boating, and other projects we aren't allowed to tell you. That is why BRABUS has won Best Tuner by Auto Motor und Sport. BRABUS: Behind the Scenes As Germany's most popular motoring magazine, they polled 102,974 readers who responded with 48.3%. This far outshined the myriad of other potential winners, and it is the 14th time they have won this award. We were lucky to see their operations behind the scenes last year, so we applaud our friend Constantin Buschmann and his dedicated staff for this prestigious award. Browse All Brabus For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – March 05, 2020

BRABUS 800 Black & Gold Edition Unveiled

The BRABUS 800 Black & Gold Edition is here, donning a black appearance with striking gold components. This new model is based on the BRABUS Mercedes 800 G63, but it has been greatly upgraded by the famous tuner. (Side Note: BRABUS Classic Restorations: Better Than New) For the SUV's appearance, as the name suggests, the black and gold color scheme is on full display. The black body is contrasted by gold in the brake calipers, emblems and logotypes. There's also the gold BRABUS Monoblock Y "Platinum Edition" wheels. As if the exterior couldn't get any more brilliant, they included the BRABUS WIDESTAR widebody package, which allows the 23-inch wheels to fit perfectly. " width="680"> Inside, the black and gold color scheme continues in a glorious manner. Like the exterior, the cabin is primarily black leather but the gold accents can be found on components like the controls, BRABUS labels, air vents, loudspeaker grilles and surrounds. For the BRABUS 800 Black & Gold's power, it relies on its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine but will extra sauce added in. That extra sauce? Two new high-performance turbochargers and a list of other modifications. In total, the output is raised by 233 hp for a total of 800 hp and the torque is raised by 111 lb-ft for a total of 737 lb-ft. The BRABUS 800 Black & Gold price is set at 380,672 euros. If you'd like to learn more, visit BRABUS.com now. VIEW ALL BRABUS FOR SALE

By Edward Jones – March 04, 2020

BRABUS Concept for the Mercedes-Benz EQC Unveiled

BRABUS has just unveiled a new vehicle that's unlike anything you've seen from this famed company. The new BRABUS refinement concept for the Mercedes-Benz EQC 400 4MATIC is a glimpse into the electric future of the automobile. For power, the new BRABUS PowerXtra ELECTRIC performance upgrade kicks in when "S" drive mode is selected. When selected, power is increased from 561 to 612 lb-ft of torque, and 402 to 416 horsepower. With this power, the BRABUS-enhanced EQC can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds. " width="680"> With this new concept, BRABUS has introduced a new list of exterior and interior options for the EQC as well. As you can see from images, the exterior can be enhanced in a great manner. For the wheels, BRABUS has their Monoblock Z "Platinum Edition" wheels, measuring in at 21-inches. Inside, BRABUS offers a wide range of exclusive options like they do with every model they personalize. For more information, click here. SEE ALL BRABUS FOR SALE

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By Andrew Nabors – November 21, 2019

BRABUS Shadow 900 Spotted on Shakedown Runs

Germanic peoples have been building incredible boats for most of recorded history. That is why our friends at BRABUS Marine are nearing completion on their latest powerboat. Based on the Axopar 37 Spyder, the BRABUS Shadow 900 was spotted on shakedown runs in Finland. Despite the heavy camouflage, we can make out seating for 7 behind the helm, with a small bow-rider upfront. Powered by twin Mercury Racing 450R Verados, speed has been measured above 70 mph. A transverse bow truster will make it easy to dock. Das Boot will be formally unveiled in Düsseldorf in 2 months, so stay with us for all your Brabus news. Browse All Brabus For Sale Related: BRABUS Bringing German Engineering to 2019 Monaco Yacht Show BRABUS: Behind the Scenes

By Edward Jones – August 27, 2019

BRABUS Upgrades for the Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC

BRABUS has just announced a new product range for the Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC which take the German hatchback to a whole new level. At the heart of the new product range are two performance upgrades created by BRABUS Product Engineering. For starters, there the PowerXtra B 35 tuning kit, which pumps the power output of the A 35's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine by 44 hp and 44 lb-ft of torque. The result? 350 hp and 339 lb-ft. Then, there's the PowerXtra +. That extra "+" jumps the power up to 365 hp and 359 lb-ft, and it also adds a new rear muffler that optimizes exhaust flow. BRABUS also has more products for the A 35, like the BRABUS RACE aluminum paddle shifters, front spoiler, rear wing, Monoblock alloy wheels and more. For more information, be sure to visit BRABUS.com for more information. see all mercedes for sale Also Check Out: Brabus Unveils Black Ops 800 & Shadow 800 G63 AMG BRABUS 800 Revealed: Supercar Based on the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S

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