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 Khris Bharath – November 24, 2025

Brabus Debuts 800 Cabrio and XL 800 Cabrio

Two distinct takes on the niche Convertible G-Class format The convertible G Class continues to remain rare and highly sought after on the secondary market. Factory open-top models have existed in minimal numbers, and once production ceased, anyone wanting a convertible G faced has had limited options. This has left a gap in the market for specialist aftermarket engineering firms to create solutions that are structurally validated machines with purpose. German tuner Brabus, amongst others, has since stepped into this lucrative space of an open-top G-Class, and the latest to join their lineup are the XL 800 Cabrio and 800 Cabrio. The convertible architecture is the key achievement here. Both models use a soft top system built from more than 500 components and reinforced with high-strength steel to maintain torsional rigidity equal to the closed-top G 63. The roof opens or closes in 20 seconds and features heated rear glass. A carbon fiber surface bow stabilizes airflow and reduces wind noise. The C BOW steel roll bar integrates into the body and uses exposed carbon elements that signal both structure and design intent. Where the two models differ is in the hardware below. The XL uses portal axles designed for extreme off-road traction and clearance. Riding on 22-inch forged Monoblock Z HD wheels, it wraps around 325-section all-terrain tires and measures 82.6 inches in overall width. The 800 Cabrio uses 24-inch Monoblock ZM Platinum Edition wheels with 295-section front and 345-section rear high-performance tires aimed at road grip. Exterior finishing is equally detailed, with the 800 XL Cab XL featuring a Pale Brown finish, where the standard 800 Cab features a stealthy black finish. Further highlights include full paint conversion of chrome and plastic surfaces, exposed carbon body elements, illuminated grille logos, and complete WIDESTAR body systems. Inside, the XL features Ravion Red leather throughout the cabin, trunk, and footwells with Shell quilting, whereas the 800 Cabrio contrasts Oxford Sand and Cairo's Brown leather and integrates Airscarf heating into the headrests for comfort at speed with the roof down. Both use quilted floors, carbon controls, and illuminated entrance panels. Under the hood, both versions run a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 800 horsepower and 737 pound-feet of torque through a Speedshift TCT nine-speed transmission that you can control manually using carbon paddles. A valve-controlled exhaust system changes tone instantly at the press of a button, shifting from restrained to a full V8 profile depending on the setting. The 800 Cabrio can hit 62 mph in 4.0 seconds and reaches a limited top speed of 149 miles per hour. The XL variant peaks at 130 miles per hour and focuses on stability under load rather than outright speed. As for pricing, the XL will set you back roughly €1.05 million or $1.22 million (based on current exchange rates), while the standard 800 Cabrio will set you back €906k or $1.04 million. View All Brabus for Sale Images: Brabus

By Khris Bharath – August 01, 2025

6x6 Mayhem and Off-Road Royalty Collide in 'Truck Dynasty...

If you think custom trucks are just lifted suspensions and oversized tires, think again. The humble pickup truck is what built post-war America, hauling everything from lumber to towing trailers, helping lay power lines, and playing a key role in the vast Interstate network. The big three were pivotal in this effort, and today, trucks come in all shapes and sizes, from compact to heavy-duty, from bare-bones workhorses to plush, and even leather-wrapped luxury rigs. But Apocalypse Manufacturing, based in Southern Florida, is taking things to the extreme in the custom truck scene, which is the focus of Truck Dynasty, Discovery Channel’s new occupation‑reality series, premiering Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 9 PM ET/PT. The show centers on Joe Ghattas, founder and owner of Apocalypse, working alongside his wife and co‑owner, Ashley Ghattas, in a family‑run shop that pushes custom truck fabrication to the limits. With builds starting out as Gladiators, Broncos, and RAMs, what sets Apocalypse apart is its willingness to push boundaries on design and functionality. While most shops focus purely on off-road capability or sheer size, Apocalypse blends extravagance, everyday usability, and personalization that speaks to each owner’s lifestyle. More recently, even a Lamborghini Urus (SloFlo Customs)and a Land Rover Defender have received the full apocalypse treatment. Apocalypse builds extreme 6x6 and 4x4 trucks, while SoFlo Customs customizes a broader range of vehicles with a direct-to-consumer approach. Since launching Apocalypse, the team has built several custom trucks, including their signature 6x6 (six-wheel drive) models, carving out a niche for themselves. Now, these aren’t just extended trucks with extra axles, because Apocalypse’s 6x6s feature custom-built chassis reinforcements, upgraded suspensions, and unique styling cues that blend rugged utility with street cred. Highlights typically include widebody fenders, chunky off-road tires (40 inches), custom paint jobs, and so much more. Throw in crate motor flex (the Hellcat V8 is very popular: but LS3, HEMI, diesels are also available) and a luxurious cabin with pretty much any conceivable material imaginable (Alcantara, leather, carbon-fiber), and you have something that’s rugged on the outside, but comfy on the inside. Their Hellfire series, in particular, is among the most popular and aggressive builds, engineered for both show and serious off-road performance. Undoubtedly, they have an equally exuberant list of clients. From celebrity chefs to NBA legends and fashion icons, Apocalypse’s builds are as flamboyant as they are functional. Think Guy Fieri, who commissioned an Apocalypse Hellfire loaded with a slide-out mobile kitchen, or Shaquille O’Neal, who ordered a superhero-themed Apocalypse Super Truck that looks like something that’s truly from the post-apocalyptic world. The show will also showcase amphibious vehicles like the “Boat Truck” and high‑water response builds that can handle land, water, and even disaster zones. But Truck Dynasty isn’t just about glamor and fame. Each episode is set to dive deep into the engineering chaos behind these extreme builds. At its heart, Truck Dynasty is a story of bold ideas and family hustle. Joe’s in-laws anchor the operation, running sales and marketing. It’s a family affair, with horsepower, hydraulic lifts, and heavy metal thrown in. So, whether it rolls, floats, or climbs, tune in on August 12 to watch the drama unfold and find out exactly how this one-of-a-kind crew transforms your everyday truck into machines that turn heads both in the real and virtual world. View All Apocalypse Trucks For Sale " width="680"> Images Source: Warner Bros.Discovery

By Khris Bharath – June 05, 2025

Gunther Werks Goes Modern: Meet GW9’s Carbon-Clad 992 Tur...

For over eight years, Gunther Werks, founded by Peter Nam, has stuck to reimagining classic air-cooled 993s. Be it the coupe, the Turbo, or the Speedster (a bodystyle that Porsche themselves skipped on the 993 generation), GW has turned these humble German sports cars into carbon-clad, wide-body motorsport-grade performance machines with modern touches. The California-based restomod firm will now assume a new chapter with a new sub-brand, GW9, that will be laser-focused on modern Porsche Platforms. The first model to receive these enhancements? A 992.1 Turbo S. GW9’s 992.1 Turbo S Aero Program features an eight-piece precision-crafted carbon fiber aero kit developed in collaboration with Vorsteiner, a company also founded by Nam, that specialises in carbon-fiber composites and wheels for luxury cars and sports cars. For maximum strength and durability, each piece in the GW9 kit is autoclave-formed, making it 20-30 percent stiffer than conventional carbon fiber. Every contour perfectly aligns with the 992 Turbo S’ original lines, and the pieces bolt directly onto factory mounting points to help retain originality. “GW9 exemplifies our innovation and craftsmanship. It offers a way for the Porsche community to access the Gunther Werks brand.” Peter Nam - founder, Vorsteiner and Gunther Werks Up front, you can choose between two front spoilers: either with upright winglets or with side fins. Both increase front-end downforce and high-speed stability. Flanking the body, side skirts and intake trims help manage airflow, while a bolder rear wing with a purpose-built diffuser reduces lift and delivers an unmistakable motorsport aesthetic in back. The best part about this kit is that it is modular, meaning you can order the whole package or pick specific components to add to your vehicle. Prices range between $3,995 and $13,195. Both Gloss and satin finishes are available. Rounding things off are the $16,580 forged magnesium multi-spoke center-lock monoblock wheels that weigh less than the factory setup. The introduction of GW9 signals a pivot for Gunther Werks, from bespoke classics that often fetch millions at auction to attainable performance for the present-day Porsche owner, because beyond the 992 Turbo S, these high-quality components are also available for the 991.2 GT3 RS, the 991.2 GT2 RS, and the all-electric Taycan. In other words, if a seven-figure restomod is out of reach, GW9 has just opened the door for a wider audience to get a taste of the Gunther Werks brand. View All Gunther Werks For Sale Source: Gunther Werks

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 30, 2023

7Design Transforms The Maserati MC20 Cielo Primaserie Int...

7Design elevates the Maserati MC20 Cielo Primaserie to new luxury heights, rebranding it as MC20 ARIA and upping its value beyond $500,000 with cutting-edge aerodynamics and carbon fiber options. For fans of Maserati and high-performance supercars, the news doesn't get any better than this. Innovative design firm 7Design has put its transformative touch on Maserati's already exceptional MC20 Cielo Primaserie. The automotive upgrade specialists at 7Design are pleased to announce what's now recognized as the world's most luxurious MC20, the all-new MC20 ARIA. With a price tag exceeding $500,000, this revamped marvel is making heads turn throughout the automotive world. Founder of 7Design, Peter Eskander, noted that the customization process was driven by client expectations for "quality and personalization." To meet these demands, a collection of carbon fiber products has been offered to enhance the styling of any factory Maserati MC20. From the eye-catching blue-tinted 4x4 carbon weave carbon to the OEM-matched carbon for a more traditional look, the choices are as exquisite as they are varied. 7Design has engineered new aerodynamics upgrades, like a fixed rear wing and other freshly designed components, all available on client request. What stands out is the considerable 123% increase in aerodynamic efficiency. The meticulously designed aero strikes a captivating balance between elegance and aggression without deviating from the MC20's original design philosophy. The Maserati MC20 Cielo Primaserie is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering an impressive 621 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. View all Maserati MC20 examples currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below View All Maserati MC20 For Sale Source: 7Design

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 17, 2023

LOKI Coach Unveils A Revolutionary Battery Monitoring Sys...

LOKI Coach introduces a game-changing battery monitoring system for motorhomes, offering 96,000 watts of lithium batteries, solar panels, and remote control features. Are you tired of noisy generators ruining the tranquility of your luxury motorhome travel experience? LOKI Coach has just the solution for its extensive lineup of custom builds. The team of professionals at LOKI Coach is proud to introduce a new state-of-the-art battery monitoring system that optimizes power consumption and offers exceptional convenience and efficiency. LOKI Coach is changing the way modern travelers experience luxury motorhome trips with this innovative system. Accessing real-time battery data and control settings remotely, the system revolves around making your journey smoother than ever before. Powered by a whopping 96,000 watts of lithium batteries, boasting a capacity of 8000 ampere-hours, LOKI Coach doesn't stop there. The system also incorporates high-efficiency solar panels that generate 2540 watts and dual custom supercharged alternators, delivering an incredible 1200 ampere-hours of ultra-fast charging capability. What this means for you is remarkable power, reliability, and efficiency, all bundled into a sustainable package that significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Lithium batteries are the heart of this advanced system, offering a consistent voltage output that is virtually maintenance-free and incredibly eco-friendly. These batteries can endure a large number of charge and discharge cycles, ultimately saving you money on replacements and reducing your carbon footprint. By utilizing renewable energy sources like solar panels, LOKI Coach helps you move towards a greener, more sustainable future. LOKI Coach's revolutionary system plays a crucial role in optimizing the charging and discharging processes, making sure the batteries operate within their ideal voltage and temperature parameters. The advanced features authorize users to monitor both AC and DC consumption and even track what was directly powered by solar energy. Imagine a luxury motorhome experience that is entirely battery-powered, allowing you to charge your electric car directly from the motorhome itself. With LOKI Coach, you can take your eco-conscious journey a step further by charging your electric car. In a nutshell, LOKI Coach is setting new standards in luxury motorhome travel with its innovative battery monitoring system, designed to make your travels quieter, cleaner, and more enjoyable. With LOKI Coach, you don't just travel; you experience the future of luxury travel. Discover LOKI Coach and the future of its power management system by clicking the link below. Discover LOKI Coach Source: LOKI Coach

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 18, 2023

MANSORY Debut Aftermarket Upgrades For The Rolls-Royce Ph...

Adding the Rolls-Royce Phantom to its aftermarket portfolio, Mansory redesigns the luxury sedan. Since its monumental debut in the high-end automotive market, the coveted Rolls-Royce Phantom has always been a luxury-focused sedan that features the performance of a supercar. While the professionals at Rolls-Royce obsess over comfort and craftsmanship, the aftermarket specialists at Mansory aim to enhance the brand's ultra-luxury lineup with aggressive styling and added performance. Mansory is proud to announce the introduction of an all-new collection of exterior and interior upgrades for the most current Rolls-Royce Phantom series. The exterior of the Rolls-Royce Phantom includes a full-body kit that uses forged carbon fiber accents to shed weight while adding a whole new look to the elongated luxury sedan. Where chrome accents and light colors define the traditional characteristics of a Rolls-Royce, Mansory transforms tradition with a blackline trim package, forged carbon aero pieces, custom gloss black forged Mansory wheels, and redesigned badging. Inside, Mansory subtly complements Rolls-Royce's pristine interior with commemorative stitching and piping that add a vibrant touch. The iconic 'MANSORY' logo can be found stamped in the center steering wheel insert, embroidered in each headrest, and stitched into every seat belt. In addition to the aesthetic enhancements, Mansory is also working on engineering an upgraded engine tune that will unlock the full potential of Rolls-Royce's 6.75L twin-turbocharged 12-cylinder engine. As we continue to learn more about the aftermarket upgrades for the current generation Phantom Series VIII, Mansory preps for upcoming and future customer builds. View all Rolls-Royce Phantom examples currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by MANSORY (@mansory) Source: MANSORY