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 Edward Jones – September 28, 2021

Ultimate Toys Unveils the New Ultimate Rover Based on the...

Presented by Ultimate Toys - Over the years, Ultimate Toys has made a massive name for itself by creating luxurious Sprinter conversions such as the Ultimate Coach, Ultimate RV, Ultimate Traveler and more. Now, they have introduced a new model that's based on the wildly popular RAM ProMaster chassis. Introducing the new Ultimate Toys Ultimate Rover. Offered exclusively through Ultimate Toys, the Ultimate Rover is loaded with the luxury features and options to get you where you’re going in the pinnacle of style. Featuring all of the exquisite fit and finishes you’ve come to expect from Ultimate Toys products, it’s a “glampers” dream. From the moment you enter the Ultimate Rover and see the custom woodwork and beautifully handcrafted interior, you’ll understand why they're known as the “Best in Class.” Replete with luxury amenities like two flat-screen TVs, a center-cabin refrigerator for easy access and so much more, this incredibly versatile vehicle is sure to meet and exceed your every need. The Ultimate Rover also features two comfortable sofas that fold into a bed – perfect for a quick nap or overnight travel. 20’11” RAM ProMaster 3500 High Roof 159′ EXT Seats 8 Sleeps 2 2 LED TV’s Wifi Full bathroom/kitchen Unlimited Fun For More information regarding the Ultimate Rover, be sure to click the button below to visit UltimateToys.com. Learn More

By Edward Jones – August 24, 2021

Apocalypse Hellfire 6x6 Visits Jay Leno's Garage

Jay Leno takes the massive six-wheeler out for a spin. If you've watched episodes of Jay Leno's Garage before, and I'm sure you have, you know that his typical visitors are supercars, classic cars, and luxury cars. In the most recent episode of Jay Leno's Garage, however, a massive Apocalypse Hellfire 6x6 truck makes a visit. This massive creation comes out of Fort Lauderdale where the company's headquarters is based. The team starts with the cabin of a Jeep Gladiator, and then fabricates everything that makes it looks ferocious and luxurious, and even hand-manufactures the middle axle. As far as engines go, they offer an LS3, twin-turbo diesel and a Hellcat. From the front to rear, there really is so much to uncover when it comes to Apocalypse 6x6's creations. That means if you don't have one in front of you, you ought to click play on the video up above and learn what makes these trucks so special. And while this truck isn't Leno's style, he still loved not only the vehicle but the story of how the Apocalypse 6x6 company came to be. Who knows, maybe we'll see one in Jay Leno's collection in the future. If you'd like to add one to your collection or see what's available for sale, be sure to click the button below. View Apocalypse 6x6 Inventory

By Edward Jones – August 24, 2021

Desert Power Wagon WC 53 Shines at Pebble Beach

One of the shining stars of the duPont REGISTRY display at Pebble Beach this year was a massive, off-road-ready creation known as the WC 53 by Desert Power Wagons. This stunning vehicle came to life thanks to Jim and Christina Torina's vision for a modern and rugged take on the classic Power Wagon while still allowing it to retain its original distinct style. The WC 53 that was on display started out just like every other creation from Desert Power Wagons: as an original cab. From there, the team strips the cab down and starts the transformation process. While there is a laundry list of modifications made, here are some highlights: a new engine (the one on display was powered by a Hellcat engine), Dana 60 axles, automatic transmission, 37-inch Toyo RT Tires, all-metal body components, air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, modern sound system, and so much more. Desert Power Wagons also gives their customers the ability to customize their new trucks with options like an original Braden Winch, customized interior, rear bucket/bench seats, 8-bolt wheels and more. The Desert Power Wagon WC 53 is truly an attractive creation. Don't believe us? Even Horacio Pagani had to check it out when he visited our display at Pebble Beach. Now that's some serious recognition that is well-deserved. If you'd like to learn more, be sure to check out DesertPowerWagons.com or click the button below. Visit DesertPowerWagons.com

By Edward Jones – July 22, 2021

MegaRexx's MegaRaptor: A Diesel-Powered Monster

Presented by MegaRexx Trucks - There are many people in the world who live and breathe for diesel-powered vehicles. Unfortunately for them, the Ford Raptor relies on a standard gas engine. To remedy this problem, MegaRexx created the MegaRaptor. This massive truck is powered by diesel and is unlike any other Raptor on the road today. To start off the conversion, MegaRexx addresses the truck's height. Being an off-road truck, they raise the axles and differentials with larger tires, install a 4-inch lift and longer shocks. With its newfound height, the MegaRaptor's body is given a package that includes all fiberglass parts, the steel halo that supports the hood and lights, the links for the tilt mechanism, headlights, tail lights, grill, amber or white lights for the grill, gas shocks that help lift and hold the hood open, and the necessary parts to facilitate the larger wheel and tire combination. When installing components, the installers at MegaRexx pay close attention to detail, fit and finish, ensuring that each MegaRaptor is of the highest quality. For power, the MegaRaptor utilizes a 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel engine. This engine lays power down to the 46"x15.5" Michelin XZL (395/85R20) tires mounted on MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) aluminum wheels. These wheels are rated at 10,000 lbs each, so weight is of no worry. Customers can work with MegaRexx Trucks and their endless options available for the MegaRaptor in order to create the truck of their dreams. These options include items like push bumpers, desert or pre-runner style bumpers, deer guards, electric side steps from Amp Research™, spare tire carriers, front and/or rear winch, high-end EBC™ brakes, custom exhaust, off-road lights, work lamps, power inverters, and so much more. Every MegaRaptor is a true one-of-a-kind creation. For more information, visit MegaRexxTrucks.com or click the button below to see their current inventory. View Inventory

By Edward Jones – July 21, 2021

The 1000 HP Wagon: Performance and Functionality Without ...

Presented by RENNtech - Famous for extracting more power out of Mercedes and AMG powerplants, RENNtech’s R3 Performance Package turns the W213 Mercedes-AMG E63 Wagon into a serial supercar slayer. With 1017 HP and 871 TQ at the crank, the AMG E63S R3 (S213) is the most powerful street-legal wagon ever to leave RENNtech’s shop in Stuart, FL. With a top speed restrictor delete the longroof will run beyond 180 mph making it the ideal choice for setting a new road trip record this summer. The wagon accelerates from 0-to-60 mph in 2.9 sec., 60 – 130 mph in 6.3 seconds, and runs the quarter-mile in 10.42 seconds trapping at 136.42 mph. In car terms, that is fast enough to leave McLaren’s MP4 in the dust, even with a full payload. Developed to run on either standard 93-octane or 100-octane race fuel, RENNtech’s R3 -package offers the convenience of an everyday commuter and the balls-out performance of a track-ready race car. In “daily mode” the R3 produces 965 HP and 816 LB-FT of torque and can be fueled up with premium gas at the local station. Flip the switch on the HHT (Hand Held Tuner), fill the tank with 100 octane fuel, and the RENNtech’s rocket wagon will hammer down 1017 HP and 871 TQ (DYNO SHEET) into the tarmac without hesitation. The R3 -package for the W213 E 63 AMG includes RENNtech’s Stage II Turbo’s, an improved Fuel System, performance software for ECU (Engine Control Unit) and CPC (Power Train Control Unit), Stainless-Steel Downpipes with 200 Cell Catalytic Converters, Blow Off Valve adapters, and BMC air filters. The full R3 package runs $29,380 plus labor and can be built around any of the M177 twin-scroll-powered Mercedes-AMG 63’s. With 1000+ horsepower and the sublime sound of a petrol-fueled AMG V8, there is no doubt who rules the leafy suburbs. Visit RENNtech.com RENNtech R3 Performance UpgradeFor: MY 2018+ Mercedes-AMG E63 & E63S Wagon or SedanPower: 1017 HP and 871 TQ (100 Oct) 965 HP and 816 TQ (93 Oct)Performance: 0 – 60 MPH in 2.9 seconds. 60 – 130 MPH in 6.3 seconds R3 Performance Upgrade Includes:ECU Upgrade (RENNtech HHT)Stainless Steel Downpipes w/200 Cell Catalytic ConvertersCPC UpgradeRENNtech Fuel System UpgradeBlow-Off Valve AdaptersBMC Air FiltersPrice: $29,380

By Edward Jones – July 16, 2021

Ram TRX 6x6 Unveiled by Apocalypse Manufacturing

The world's fastest production truck just got even more insane. Apocalypse Manufacturing, based in Fort Lauderdale, has just unveiled their custom Ram 1500 TRX 6x6 truck. That's right, they took the incredibly powerful TRX and installed a proprietary middle axle to turn it into a six-wheel-drive monster. This build starts off with a RAM TRX that's powered by a supercharged HEMI 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces an astonishing 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. From there, they install their proprietary middle axle that adds an additional two powered 18-inch wheels wrapped in 37-inch all-mud-terrain tires. There's also a seventh wheel mounted on the truck bed. “I am really proud of how our highly-skilled team took on our most ambitious project yet,” said Joseph Ghattas, owner, engineer, and head designer of Apocalypse Manufacturing. “Our development and research really show on the handcrafted middle axle and custom frame we created by using bigger, beefier quarter-inch-thick steel needed to complement the insane horsepower output that separates the TRX from every other vehicle on the road today. This build is as impressive as they come and perfectly aligns with the rest of our Apocalypse catalog of trucks.” RAM TRX Price & Specs Apocalypse Manufacturing is currently offering the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX 6x6 at a price of $250,000. They also offer other 6x6 builds, like the HellFire, Doomsday and Sinister 6 models. For more information, be sure to click the button below. Visit Apocalypse6x6.com

By Edward Jones – July 12, 2021

New 2021 Shelby F-150 Unveiled: More Power and Tech Than ...

An optional supercharger turns this truck into an unrelenting monster. It's time that we all meet the new 2021 Shelby F-150, an incredibly refined yet rugged truck. The team at Shelby American has spent the last year updating, designing, and refining the new Shelby F-150 and their hard work is evident. Power for the truck comes from a V8 engine that produces 395 horsepower. That is unless you add the optional supercharger which brings its power all the way up to 775 horsepower. Allowing the truck to stay well above the ground is the new heavy-duty suspension from FOX that includes internal bypass technology and adjustable dual-speed controls. The interior of the new Shelby F-150 has also been given special treatment, offering more storage, color choices and enhanced materials. The new 2021 Shelby F-150's starting MSRP is set at $107,080, which includes the price of a 2021 Ford F-150 Lariat 4x4. They can be ordered through select dealerships. For more information, be sure to click the button below. F150 Shelby For Sale Source: Shelby American

By Edward Jones – June 17, 2021

New TECHART GTstreet R Unveiled With 800 Horsepower

Limited to 87 examples. Based on the Porsche 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S (992), the new TECHART GTstreet R is a limited, powerful and gorgeous sportscar. The exterior has been graced with a new suite of aerodynamics components that are not only extraordinarily light but also functional. Together, this aerodynamic package reduces the lift on the front axle and increases downforce on the rear axle, giving the GTstreet R better performance on the track. Working in cooperation with the aerodynamic package in the sportscar's pursuit for better track times are the two performance upgrades. The TECHART performance upgrade TA092/T1.1 with the TECHTRONIC management brings the power up by 60 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque for a total of 710 hp and 664 lb-ft. The more powerful TECHART power upgrade TA092/T2.1 brings the power all the way up to 800 hp and 701 lb-ft of torque. There's even more to be discovered throughout the new TECHART GTstreet R, so be sure to visit TECHART's website for more info. Source: TECHART

By Edward Jones – June 17, 2021

Ultimate Toys Delivers 1000th Luxury Sprinter

1000 deliveries in four years. It's exciting times for Ultimate Toys as they have announced the delivery of their 1000th luxury sprinter. That's 1000 deliveries of their luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinters since the company was founded in 2017 for an average of 250 delivers per year. The owner of the 1000th luxury sprinter is John Pawelski who owns and runs Full Circle Recovery Services, a company dedicated to providing end-to-end addiction treatment services, as well as plans for immediate and long-term recovery. “We couldn’t be happier than to be delivering this Sprinter to someone like John who understands the importance of and is dedicated to the selfless caring and support of those who need it,” says Gary Green, Founder and Owner of Ultimate Toys. Of course, Ultimate Toys is aiming for strong growth goals in 2021 and 2022. This includes expanding their current lineup and programs, providing even more possibilities to their customers. "Ultimate Toys is more than just a ‘best-in-class’ distributor," says Josh Green, President of Ultimate Toys. "Through listening to what the customers desire, we’ve evolved into a lifestyle brand, and are able to accommodate just about any need; business, leisure, RV, the daily driver, etc. We currently offer 5 of the most versatile vehicles on the road and we are expanding our product line to include more of what our customers and the industry is asking for." You can view Ultimate Toys' current lineup by clicking the button down below. View Ultimate Toys Lineup Source: Ultimate Toys

By Edward Jones – May 06, 2021

New BRABUS 800 Packs an Insane Amount of Power

A wolf in sheep's clothing. The new BRABUS 800 has been revealed, a four-door supercar based on the Mercedes-AMG E 63 4MATIC+. Unlike the stock E 63, this new creation from BRABUS packs a whopping 800 horsepower and 737.5 lb-ft of torque. That's an increase of 197 hp and 110 lb-ft. This upgrade of power for the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine is made possible thanks to the plug-and-play BRABUS PowerXtra module. This unit contains special mapping for the injection, ignition and boost pressure control. BRABUS has enhanced their new model even further thanks to custom naked-carbon aerodynamic components, 21-inch hi-tech forged wheels, and more. Of course, BRABUS can always refine the interior with exclusive components like the stainless-steel scuff played with a backlit BRABUS logo. The BRABUS 800 comes with a 3-year or 62,000-mile BRABUS Tuning Warranty. What's more, it can be ordered as either a sedan or wagon or a customer can request to have their current AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+ converted. For more information, be sure to visit the BRABUS website. View BRABUS Vehicles For Sale

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