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 – November 08, 2017

Hennessey Tears Up Their Field with VelociRaptor Donuts

Some donuts are meant for eating, while others are meant for tearing up rubber. Or, in Hennessey Performance's case with their latest video, tearing up the field at their Proving Grounds. In the video, the Texas-based company takes their VelociRaptor truck out for some dirty donuts. The 600 horsepower truck creating the mayhem is packed with the Off-Road Stage 1 Package, which allows for such impeccable handling in the dirt. The 622 lb-ft of torque gives the truck the ability to spin the 35-inch Toyo tires all throughout the dirt. These tires are separated from the body by a an additional 3-inches, thanks to the Stage 1 Package's modifications. To learn everything that comes in the package, be sure to click the link below. If trucks aren't your thing, check out Hennessey's new Venom F5 hypercar.Learn About the VelociRaptor

By Edward Jones – November 01, 2017

New Gemballa GT Concept Throws Down Hypercar Numbers

Heading to SEMA 2017 is the new Gemballa GT Concept that is promised to throw down performance numbers you'd expect from a hypercar.The Gemballa GT is based on the Porsche 991 Turbo, as is made apparent from the car's silhouette. Its exterior has been modified, but it was done tastefully so. The most obvious exterior modification is the large rear wing made from carbon fiber.Porsche Unveils the 911 Carrera T: The Lightest 911 Carrera Sell My Porsche

By Edward Jones – October 31, 2017

Just Released: New Images of the Hennessey VelociRaptor 6x6

The Hennessey Performance VelociRaptor 6x6 has finally been unveiled at SEMA 2017 show in Las Vegas, Nevada. To go along with the massive truck's unveiling are a new set of images taken of the new 6x6.The VelociRaptor 6X6 is the ultimate off-road vehicle,” said John Hennessey, Founder & CEO of Hennessey Performance. “We will be building just 50 VelociRaptor 6X6’s, which makes it not only one of the most aggressive and unique vehicles on the market but also one of the most exclusive.”Hennessey Performance Venom F5 Aims For 300 MPHEach VelociRaptor 6x6 will cost $349,000, a price that includes the base 2018 Ford F-150 Raptor, 6x6 locking rear axles, VelociRaptor 600 twin-turbo engine upgrade, upgraded suspension, upgraded 20-inch wheels, Toyo off-road tires, front and rear bumpers, roll bar and LED lights. There is also an optional Brembo brake system for an additional $22,000.https://www.facebook.com/hennesseype/videos/10155601711460259/

By Andrew Nabors – October 26, 2017

Hennessey Performance VelociRaptor 6x6 Heading To SEMA

If you thought the Venom F5 would be the only big news from SEMA, think again. Hennessey Performance is also ready to unleash the VelociRaptor 6x6. The intensive build starts as a 2017 or 2018 Ford Raptor, and the only parts that remain original are probably the door handles. Starting under the hood, the twin-turbo V6 is treated to a host of new hardware. Everything from the intakes to larger turbos, twin front intercoolers, downpipes and stainless exhaust is added while the original rear suspension is removed. The details are so imposing we chose it for the cover of this year's anniversary issue.It will be the centerpiece of the Shell Pioneering Performance Experience, and we will be there covering the action for you. Stay with us for all your Hennessey Performance Updates.

By Edward Jones – October 26, 2017

Fab Fours' New Ford Raptor Bumper Adds Aggression

Ford's F-150 Raptor truck is an extreme beast in its own right, so it takes a truly notable modification to make a difference. Fab Fours' new Aero Series Front Bumper is just that.Recently revealed, this new ultra-light hybrid bumper gives the front of the Raptor an even more aggressive look than before. Each bumper is crafted from tube and plate steel and weighs in at just 45 lbs. Fab Fours also took aerodynamics into consideration and gave the bumper a sleek design that aids in ground clearance and air flow. In the center of the bumper is a cutout for a Rigid Industries 20-inch LED light bar. Fab Fours also offers the Aero Series bumpers with or without the pre-runner guard.This new bumper may be an aftermarket piece, but it still follows the body lines of the truck and really accentuates the Raptor's brawny appearance. For more information, click the button below.Learn About This Bumper

By Edward Jones – September 29, 2017

First TECHART GT Street R in the USA

TECHART has just revealed the first GTstreet R in the United States. That momentous car was built by Autodynamica in The Woodlands, Texas.The new GTstreet R starts with the foundation of either a 911 Turbo or a Turbo S, but just about every facet of the car is changed with TECHART's modifications. Active aerodynamics can be seen on the sports cars exterior, which provide over 700 lbs of downforce. This downforce is needed because not only was the weight reduced, but power was increased. With their ECU upgrade, TECHART unlocks an additional 40 horsepower and 95-lb-ft of torque for the GTstreet R. When challenged, this sports car will run 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 210 mph.

By Edward Jones – September 27, 2017

BRABUS 850 BUSCEMI Edition Edition Revealed

BRABUS and BUSCEMI, the famous luxury footwear and accessory brand, have teamed up to create the BRABUS 850 BUSCEMI Edition. This new collaboration seeks to combine the world of footwear with the world of cars. The result is this special edition SUV based on the Mercedes-AMG G63.The BRABUS 850 BUSCEMI Edition features:"- BRABUS 850 6.0 biturbo High Performance Engine- BRABUS special exterior in gold and black designed with collaboration with BUSCEMI- BRABUS Fine Leather interior in black with red stitching and a special stitching pattern as well as BUSCEMI brand insignia designed in collaboration with BUSCEMI"Joining the SUV is a matching pair of sneakers and bags from BUSCEMI.https://www.facebook.com/brabus/videos/10155754430109294/

By Edward Jones – September 26, 2017

Liberty Walk Introduces New Acura NSX and Ford Mustang Kits

Everybody knows a Liberty Walk car when they see one. How? Two...well, one word: "wide-body."While they may be known for their wide-body kits, their two recent releases feature on with the added size and one without. Their new LB Works kit for the Ford Mustang includes front, rear and side diffusers, duck tail, wide fenders and front canard. The wide-body appearance is accomplished through those wide fenders. The total price? $6,800, not including installation.Ken Block Drifts Pikes Peak in 1,400 Horsepower Mustang For the Acura NSX, however, there are no wide fenders to be found. Instead, the LB Performance kit comes with front, rear and side diffusers and a rear wing. Pricing for this kit isn't available for international markets just yet.Check out both kits below.

By Andrew Nabors – September 19, 2017

Hennessey HPE1000 Jeep Trackhawk Gets Over 1,000 Horsepower

Everyone thought the Dodge Hellcat was a limited series of high-performance cars. What started as an engine option for the Challenger and Charger has spawned the Demon and the new Jeep Trackhawk. By combining Hellcat power with the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, it will make for a fun daily driver.Hennessey Mustang GT350R ScreamsJohn Hennessey and his team are well acquainted with the monster under its hood. The supercharged V8 is essentially the same as in the Hellcat and also the basis for the HPE upgrade packages. Taking the same approach as those incredible cars, the Jeep Trackhawk HPE1000 makes 1,012 horsepower at the crankshaft. Torque is a beastly 969 lb-ft at 4,200 rpm. It is made possible by a 4.5 liter supercharger and a host of upgrades to support it. Boost is limited to 14 lbs to save the transmission and axles. Stainless exhaust and a cold air intake allow quarter-mile times around 10.5 seconds at 133 mph. If your Jeep needs to reach 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, HPE is your ticket for a wild ride. A video is coming soon, but until then check out this throwback to the twin-turbo SRT8:

By Andrew Nabors – September 18, 2017

BRABUS Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Forty years in the aftermarket is a cause for celebration, so BRABUS arrived in Frankfurt with a host of stunning cars. The Frankfurt Auto Show of 2017 was a perfect venue to display the latest in performance upgrades ranging from the S65 to the SmartCar.The world premiere of the BRABUS Rocket 900 took center stage. Based on the S65, it uses more boost and new software to unleash 900 horsepower and 1,106 lb-ft of torque. 2015: BRABUS 900based on the Mercedes-Maybach S 600

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