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 22, 2019

Porsche 718 Cayman & Boxster Upgrades by TECHART

Porsche has pumped serious power into the latest 718 Series. Many owners who want the latest power might consider a trade-in, but hold on for a minute. Your four-cylinder can run with the GT series thanks to the Porsche 718 Cayman & Boxster upgrades by TECHART. For a limited time, our friends are offering a GT Package for all Caymans. A new front spoiler and GT-Style Rear Wing II are available for the 718 Cayman, 718 Cayman S, 718 Cayman T, and the 718 Cayman GTS. Convertible owners are treated to a new TECHART Aerokit for the 718 Boxster (or Cayman). A new 2-piece front spoiler has an integrated splitter. The central air outlet reduces front end lift at high speeds, and it is available in Resin Impregnated Material, or carbon fiber. If your car is a GTS or has the Sport Design package, an even more aggressive front end is offered. Exclusive to the Cayman is the fixed Rear Wing II, or the smaller Rear Wing I is available to both cars. Transform your car into a carbon fiber masterpiece with their complete exterior/interior kit. Each part is available a la carte, but it looks so good! Now we come to the real upgrades. If you want to keep up with the new GT4 cars, TECHART will have you at 62 mph in 3.8 seconds. In the Cayman S & Boxster S, the 2.5L engine offers 400 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. GTS owners are treated to 415 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. All of these modifications are covered by the TECHTRONIC warranty that covers engine and driveline parts. A new option is the TECHART PROTECT warranty for the entire car. If you are interested, click the link below and stay with us for all your TECHART updates. View Details Related: Porsche Cayenne V6 Receives TECHART Upgrades Discover the Cover: April 2019- TECHART GTstreet RS

By Andrew Nabors – April 23, 2018

TECHART Upgrades For Your Porsche 718 Series GTS

If you love your Porsche Boxster or Cayman, TECHART has a few classy ways to personalize your car. For owners of the GTS or 718 series with the optional SportDesign Package, say hello to carbon fiber. The front spoiler is a new multi-piece design, and it compliments the new Airblades, side intakes, and mirrors. Each part is available separately, so don't feel pressured to do it all at once! But we won't stop you if you do.That new front spoiler looks imposing, and it does lower the approach angle slightly. So a new front axle lift system will give you 60mm (2.3") more ground clearance whenever you need it. The comprehensive kit comes with new springs, lines, and a compact hydraulic pump- all backed by TECHART's warranty. As we've shown you in the past, their engine upgrades are just as impressive. For non-GTS owners, the TECHTRONIC upgrade offers 50 more horsepower. The big news is coming this summer when the GTS is expected to make 415 horsepower once the kit is finalized. As you probably know, their upgrades aren't limited to external enhancements. So click the link below to browse TECHART's interior accessories also.Learn More

By Edward Jones – December 05, 2017

TECHART Introduces Performance Kit for 718 Cayman and Box...

TECHART is releasing new enhancements for the Porsche 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman. The first addition to their aftermarket list for these sportscars is a new noselift for the front axle. This kit adds an additional 60 mm of ground clearance in the front. TECHART has also introduced a new powerkit that increases the power output of the 718 engines by 50 horsepower, resulting in 400 hp. With the powerkit installed, a 718 model car will run 0-62 mph in just 3.9 seconds. For more information, visit TECHART's website.TECHART's New 911 GT3 Package Adds More Flavor

By Andrew Nabors – May 23, 2017

Porsche 718 Cayman & Boxster: Tuned By TechArt

Many aftermarket shops will tell you that Porsche leaves nothing on the table when it comes to performance. In the case of the new 911 Carrera and its siblings that is probably true. But what about baby brother? The Boxster and Cayman were envisioned as a lower-priced model to bring new customers into the Porsche family. Since 1996 the small Porsche has been a mid-engine design with less power than the 911.With the arrival of the new 718 series Boxster/Cayman, a new turbocharged flat-four is rated at 345 horsepower at the crankshaft. It makes 310 lb-ft of torque, which is more than most V6 engines. While this may be enough for the average driver, the masters at TECHART couldn't resist digging into the new 2.5-liter. If you have seen their builds in person, you know their level of dedication. It is first noticed with the integration of their body parts. A new front bumper has an integrated chin spoiler that is functional and subtle. The Aerokit also drops the ride height by an inch all around. Progressive rate springs will soften the ride without sacrificing grip. Two choices for rear spoilers will keep you and your significant other happy. Staggered-width 21" forged wheels are lighter than the factory with a bit more style. All the body parts are made of carbon fiber in Germany by TECHART. They can be glossy or matte or painted to order.Behind the seats is where the real magic happens. The 2.5-liter engine was new for 2015 when it debuted in the 718 series. Unencumbered by any past compromises, it arrived with a more advanced cam timing system and a turbo that made power all the way to 7,500 rpm. It proved to be such a good performer that it had to be detuned to keep from competing with the base model 911 Carrera. We knew someone would step up and release the true potential of the 718 series, but Porsche doesn't like outsiders cracking their secrets. It would be easier to mine for Bitcoin than crack a Porsche computer, but it has been done.In developing the Powerkit, they were able to achieve 354 lb-ft of torque at only 2,800 rpm. That is more torque than a Ferrari F430, which has four more cylinders. TECHART also found 400 horsepower, and both measurements were made at the rear wheels. But wait, there's more! The system's full power can be accessed by using the original sport button on the center console. Every aspect of the upgrade has been engineered into the factory electronics. You will be at 62 mph in 3.9 seconds, the same time as a 911 Carrera S. For the ultimate sleeper, the exhaust upgrade can be installed with factory tailpipes to catch your opponents off-guard. With the equivalent power of a V8 and a top speed of 184 mph, a TECHART tuned Boxster or Cayman is money well spent.Instagram: @TECHARTUSA Facebook: TECHART Telephone: 949.436.9779 Website: www.techart-usa.com

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