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 – September 12, 2018

McLaren 570GT is a Gorgeous Flamethrower!

Designed by McLaren to be the ultimate daily driver, the 570GT has room for groceries and a comfortable ride. Just because it has a leather-lined package tray doesn't mean it lacks the potential of the other Spors Series cars. That's why Excel Racing in Boca Raton, Florida decided to turn up the boost. Their XR700 package is a comprehensive series of McLaren upgrades along with dyno tuning. After a series of runs, they achieve their goal.Sending 631 horsepower and 563 lb-ft to the ground is quite impressive, especially considering their V8 is only 3.8-liters. So to make sure it is reliable, the tune is programmed to dump extra fuel when the turbos and exhaust gets hot. This seems counterintuitive, but gas does cool the system. Without oxygen, it can't burn until it reaches the tailpipes! Congrats to the team at Excel Racing on this achievement, and click on the link below to find a 570GT for yourself.Browse McLaren 570GT For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 06, 2018

AEV & Chevrolet Unveil the Colorado ZR2 Bison

If you are in the market for a midsize truck, your options for offroad performance have been limited. That's why Chevrolet turned to our friends at AEV to build the 2019 Colorado ZR2 Bison. The original ZR2 was an aggressive suspension package on the S10, and they are somewhat collectible in the world of small trucks.Stake Your Claim With the AEV Prospector XL Tray BedEngineers are hard at work on the mid-engine Corvette, so they turned to the best in the industry. American Expedition Vehicles builds everything from the Prospector XL Tray Bed to the JK350, and their American-made parts have transformed them from an aftermarket company to a Tier1 OEM supplier.Their ZR2 concept caught the eyes of Chevrolet's truck division, who decided to give them the green light. The Bison is available to order from every Chevy dealer, or you can order the parts from AEV if your Colorado needs an upgrade. Stay with us for all your AEV & Chevy updates.Click Here To Learn Morehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=b2XxLPBqeYg

By Andrew Nabors – September 06, 2018

Lister Unveils Modified Jaguar as "World's Fastest SUV"

One of England's most iconic brands is the Lister Motor Company. Following on the success of their LFT-666 coupe, they have just announced the Lister LFP. Using the Jaguar F-Pace SVR as a logical starting point, they have achieved 670 horsepower and a top speed of 200 mph. The aforementioned coupe is based on the F-Type SVR, so Lister is using their same secret sauce on the SUV.2014 Foreign Cars that are Illegal in the USACarbon fiber replaces aluminum to reduce the curb weight, which allows it to hit 60 mph in 3.5 seconds.CEO Lawrence Whittaker said: "I am delighted, overwhelmed and gratified by the huge level of interest, excitement and orders our LFT-666 supercar has already generated in just a few months. Based on early indications, our new LFP promises to repeat the success of the LFT-666, and I really can’t wait to reveal the world’s fastest SUV quite soon.”The press release says pricing will start at £140,000, or just over $181,000. No mention of a US-spec version was made, but we hope a few Left-hand drive models are built. Click the link below for great incentives on the F-Pace and stay with us for all your Jaguar aftermarket updates.Browse Jaguar F-Pace For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 05, 2018

2019 Roush Stage 3 Mustang: Ready to Rumble With 710 HP

If you are considering a new Roush Mustang, Cactus Jack has something for you. Mr. Roush and his team have been modifying Mustangs for over 40 years, and their latest achievement will leave everyone else in the dust. In writing this year's Exotic Car Buyers' Guide, Roush disclosed that the drivetrain was proven in the limited edition Roush Stage 3 Mustang "Jackhammer" earlier this year, but the aerodynamics needed attention. We're showing you the Jackhammer as an inspiration because the Stage 3 is almost ready for launch. 2018 Roush Raptor Is Ready For You Under the hood is an Eaton R2650 'Roushcharger'. It boosts the 5.0-liter V8 to 710 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque. Having 250 more horsepower, your Stage 3 will arrive with adjustable coil-over suspension. Big brakes and specific 20" wheels complete the package, which will retail for $22,925. This doesn't include your Mustang GT donor, but the combined price is still more affordable than the Shelby GT350. The engine and transmission are backed by a 5-year/60,000 mile warranty, so click the link below to get on their waiting list. Stay with us for all your Roush news. Click Here To Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – August 31, 2018

AC Schnitzer Breaks Nürburgring lap Record

If you are in the market for a fast M5, AC Schnitzer has unleashed something vicious. Backed by a 5-year warranty, their upgrade kit for the late model (F90) M5 offers 700 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. They have developed several exhaust systems and you can choose between their 15mm lowering springs or a fully adjustable KW coil-over kit.View the Sultan of Brunei's Car CollectionTheir body kit includes carbon fiber for the splitter, rockers, roof spoiler, and the rear diffuser. Their Typ 8 forged wheels are 10" x 21", and the forged silver/anthracite are 10" x 20". Cast 20" wheels are also available.At the Nürburgring Nordschleife, these improvements culminated in a 7.29.5 lap time. Not only is it the fastest M5 to ever run on the hallowed track, their press release mentions that it is faster than a 911 Carrera S, AMG GTS, and the M4 GTS. If you want the ultimate M5, click the link below to find your ride. Then call AC Schnitzer for the best in BMW performance.Browse BMW M5 For Salehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=H9iWNdxE584

By Andrew Nabors – August 28, 2018

Dale Jr's Winning 2012 Chevy Impala For Sale

If you have ever wanted to compete in NASCAR, here is your best opportunity: Rick Hendrick and his team are offering a winning car. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and the 88 Team won the June 2012 race in Michigan, so this car was fielded at most shorter tracks until it was retired in 2014.Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Preview: Dale Jr’s 1970 Chevelle SSThe paint & vinyl graphics are from "The Dark Knight Rises", making it even more unique. Under the hood is a new Hendrick Motorsports R07 Chevrolet V8. The fuel injected 358 makes much more than the 800 horsepower rating so you can run 0-60 in first gear.The four-speed manual and the differential are geared for 9,000 rpm at close to 200 mph so you might want to check your local speed limits before you buy. If you despise your Homeowners Association, or if you need an engine for your project car, click the link below for all the details.View Price & Listing

By Edward Jones – August 22, 2018

LOUD Widebody Liberty Walk Ferrari 488 GTB

The trend of widebody cars continues with this Liberty Walk Ferrari 488 GTB. It's finished in a gray paint that contrasts with black trim. While this 488's exterior is stylish, its sound is just as impressive.In a video uploaded by FiExhaust, we get to hear what a 488 GTB sounds like when equipped with a new exhaust system. Is it loud? You bet.This LB Ferrari 488 GTB is impressive in more ways than one and deserves to be seen. Check it out for yourself by clicking play on the video below.All Ferrari 488 GTBs For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – August 14, 2018

BMW Turned Into Real Transformer

Autobots unite... or Decepticons if you must. Either way, any Transformers fan secretly (or not-so-secretly) wishes they might have the opportunity to turn their car into their favorite alien robot. Now, a company called Letrons is bringing that dream into reality. In a few recent videos uploaded to the company's YouTube page, shows that they've created the ability to literally turn a vehicle into a Transformer.According to the company's website, Letrons is the first and only company with technology of its kind. The Transformer is remote-control operated and includes fog effects and full sound. The Transformer has full head, neck and arm movement as well as finger movement. Letrons offers four models, the Bizmut, Argon, Wolfram and and Tantal.Want to see the transformation in action? Check out the videos below.

By Andrew Nabors – August 14, 2018

BRABUS Tunes the Mercedes G500 to 500 Horsepower

If your new Mercedes-Benz G500 doesn't stand out from the crowd, our friends at BRABUS have cooked up something spicy. This model year marks the introduction of the second generation of Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The new Geländewagen is the first total redesign since 1979, so it has been long overdue. A new body and chassis also demand new power, but so far the factory has only offered two versions of the 4.0-liter twin turbo V8.Much like everyone these days, it is easier to detune a powerful engine than to offer several engine choices. BRABUS realized this when tuning the 4.0 found in other Mercedes & AMG models. So, by applying their unique resources to the factory computer of the G500, they have introduced the B40-500 PowerXtra Performance Upgrade. A plug & play tuner recalibrates the turbos and timing to make 500 horsepower and 524 lb-ft of torque. You will reach 62 mph in 5.7 seconds, as your new 23" x 11" forged Platinum Edition wheels struggle to keep up. Your top speed is limited to 130, which is fast enough when going offroad. Click the link below to see what BRABUS has to offer and stay with us for all your aftermarket news.Browse BRABUS For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 02, 2018

Hennessey Performance Creates 10,000th Car

When a teenager starting modifying his Mitsubishi in his parents' garage, he never dreamed it would evolve into a world-class engineering company. Yesterday, our friend and longtime client John Hennessey gathered his team and his family for something unprecedented. The Hennessey Heritage Edition Mustang takes inspiration from the Ford GT Heritage Edition, except it makes much more power. Only 19 will be available for sale because John is keeping the first one for himself.This 808 horsepower Mustang is the 10,000th car to have a Hennessey badge. It has 677 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. That is enough to reach 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and cruise comfortably above 200 mph. It has been a long way to the top, and I know from experience that the aftermarket business is always a bumpy ride.I have driven his HP 1000 Ford GT and their twin-turbo Ferrari 599 GTB, and the quality of their builds speaks for itself. There would probably not have been a Dodge Demon or a Corvette ZR1 without Hennessey showing the world that superchargers and proper tuning are a recipe for success.John, thank you for being a fixture in our magazine and our websites, and congratulations from all of us at duPont REGISTRY!Check Out Their Lineup Herehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=OVWpQPa2aRg

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