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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 Jordan Aquistapace – February 20, 2024

Koenigsegg Takes A Look Back At Its Bespoke Legends Progr...

Showcasing a spec unlike any other, this Koenigsegg Agera 'RST' stands out as a true one-of-one hypercar.

By Andrew Nabors – May 07, 2018

Manny Khoshbin's Koenigsegg Agera RS

Last month we reported that Koenigsegg had ended production of their Agera RS. A car that broke 5 world records is worthy of a Grand Finale, so our friend Manny Khoshbin collaborated with Christian von Koenigsegg to built the ultimate Agera. This build is unique in every way, so it was given the name of Phoenix. This mythical beast has the looks and abilities to dominate everything on the road. It would be hard to choose a color that is befitting of such a hypercar, so they settled on clear-coated carbon fiber. Under the clear are 24k gold leaf accents that match the gold stitched used throughout the interior. The body is 1 of 1, with unique aerodynamics that makes 1,150 lbs of downforce at 155 mph. To do this, the engine's air intake was extended into the removable roof panel. All Records Broken by the Koenigsegg Agera RS The rear spoiler is a dual-level design, and it was necessitated by incredible power. Manny wanted the fastest production car ever built, so he opted for the MEGA engine option. First seen on the Koenigsegg One:1, the twin turbo V8 makes one Megawatt of power. This is nearly 1,400 horsepower, and it is a proper farewell for the Agera. https://instagram.com/p/BiXl4SrnccR/ The options alone are almost $ 1 Million so it is also one of the most expensive cars they have built. Koenigsegg also made a fitted helmet of carbon fiber, with the same 24k motif as the car. Mr. Khoshbin doesn't let his fleet collect dust, so we'll hopefully have track footage coming soon. If you want something truly unique, click the link below and stay with us for all your Koenigsegg updates. Browse Koenigsegg For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – October 05, 2017

Koenigsegg Agera RS Sets New Record For 0-249-0

If you knew you had an ace in the hole, how long could you keep from bluffing? Everyone knows Bugatti builds fast cars. If a challenger appears, they simply add more power or build a new model. They represent the financial and engineering expertise of VW, which is comprised of Porsche, Audi, Lamborghini, etc. Sitting across the table in this high-stakes game is Christian von Koenigsegg. His Swedish company has more automotive patents and innovation that comes from being an outside observer in the early days of the supercar scene. It has allowed him and his team to build wild cars like the Agera and Regera, that force major automakers back to the drawing board. Two weeks ago, Bugatti announced a new record time in the 0-400 kph-0 test. The brutal scenario pushes the engine, driver, and brakes to their limits. The Chiron was able to reach 249 mph and back to zero in only 41.96 seconds. Performance of this level was only capable by race cars until recently. But instead of shaming everyone else into submission, Koenigsegg unleashed the One:1 upgrade on the latest Agera RS. The most potent Agera to date, it produces one megawatt of power. With 1,360 horsepower and 1,011 lb-ft of torque, their blog says the Agera RS went 0-249mph-0 in only 36.44 seconds. Shaving 5.5 seconds off a world record is no easy task, so it will be interesting to see how the competition responds.

By Edward Jones – April 11, 2017

Koenigsegg Agera RS1 Debuted at 2017 New York Auto Show

First thing I'd like to excitedly announce is that the newly unveiled Koenigsegg Agera RS1 is actaully bound for the United States. Exciting? Yes, because this means we're finally getting more Koenigseggs on our roads.The RS1, which debuts at the New York Auto Show, was named by the owner of the car. Its exterior is finished in Arctic White with blue highlights. In my opinion, the carbon fiber, blue and white work together so wonderfully and make it one of the best looking Ageras out there. Inside is an extremely blue cabin with carbon fiber and anodized aluminum accents. If you're familiar with the Ford GT90 concept, I'll say it reminds me of that car, without the 90's styling. View All Koenigsegg News, Pics and Videos

By Andrew Nabors – September 13, 2016

Koenigsegg Agera RSR Spotted in Action

Last week Koenigsegg unveiled the Agera RSR to the world. Taking inspiration from the phenomenal One:1, the latest in the Agera lineup are three bespoke models heading to Japan. In a post to their Facebook page this morning, a happy customer can be seen behind the wheel with the founder riding shotgun. Asking the world where they would go if given the opportunity, it looks to be a foreshadowing of a delivery video. Always improving upon perfection, Koenigsegg has included several updates to the new model. The aggressive rear spoiler is from the One:1, offering more downforce than previous Ageras. A redesign of the roof panel allows it to be stored in the cargo compartment instead of being left at home. Considering these cars will live in the land of the rising sun, we asked ourselves the same question. Our first stop would be Fuji Raceway in hopes of beating an LF-A. Next would be the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line for tunnel action. Finally we would head into the countryside to run down a Bullet Train. Tell us where you would take yours, and stay with us for the video when its released. View Koenigsegg For Sale

By Edward Jones – September 07, 2016

Koenigsegg Agera RSR Unveiled, Only Three to be Made

Three Examples of the Koenigsegg Agera RSR Debuted for Japan Release The variants of the Koenigsegg RS continue to roll in, the latest being the new Agera RSR. This limited edition model was launched at an event held by the Swedish automaker in Tokyo, Japan. Why there? The three Agera RSR models will be created exclusively for Japan. So, what do they get with this new Agera? The car itself is obviously based on the Agera RS, but includes a few modifications that allow it to stand out from the pack. In the rear is a dynamic rear spoiler, as opposed to a more traditional one, similar to the one found on the One:1. Another new feature that's borrowed from the One:1 is the air intake scoop on the roof. (Also Check Out: Koenigsegg Agera RS "Naraya" Introduced, Gold and Diamonds Included) The Agera RSR models were among the first Agera RS models when announced. Koenigsegg notes in their blog post that the solutions created for the RSR models were made available to the other RS models. “Japan has been an important market for Koenigsegg since the earliest days of the company," said Christian von Koenigsegg, CEO and Founder of Koenigsegg Automotive AB in the company's blog post. "It brought us great pleasure to work with our Japanese clients to bring the Agera RSR to life. The cars they have designed add a new dimension to the already exclusive Agera RS series.” All three Agera RSR models have been spoken for and will be delivered to their owners soon. View All Koenigseggs For Sale

By Edward Jones – August 22, 2016

Lamborghini Veneno Owner Buys One-Off Koenigsegg Agera XS

Two years ago we were on-hand as Kris Singh took delivery of his new Lamborghini Veneno. Now, at The Quail Motorsports Gathering, Singh has taken delivery of the one-off Koenigsegg Agera XS. On his Instagram account, he posted multiple photos of his new Swedish hypercar. Finished in Karosserie Orange, this monster car is essentially an Agera RS that has been modified to drive on US roads. Powering it is a 5.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that's mated to a CIMA seven-speed automatic transmission. https://www.instagram.com/p/BJQ8r7ODjma/?taken-by=lamborghiniks Instead of keeping the car cooped up at a show, Singh took the car out for some drives all around the Monterey area. The most exciting of his drives had to be the impromptu Koenigsegg rally that even included the new Regera. Check out the images below from his Instagram account to see more from last week's events. View All Koenigseggs For Sale https://www.instagram.com/p/BJZwVXNjYKT/?taken-by=lamborghiniks https://www.instagram.com/p/BJUBt2ajS-O/?taken-by=lamborghiniks https://www.instagram.com/p/BJTDSMwj2II/?taken-by=lamborghiniks https://www.instagram.com/p/BJRnSYLD5NZ/?taken-by=lamborghiniks https://www.instagram.com/p/BJV_REyjrqh/?taken-by=lamborghiniks

By Edward Jones – August 15, 2016

Koenigsegg Agera XS: First in the US at Monterey

Two special Swedes are making an appearance at Monterey Car Week: the Koenigsegg Agera XS and Regera.For those who follow the automotive world, you're probably already well-versed in the details of the Regera. If not, here's a quick breakdown. This new hypercar is a hybrid hypercar that is powering by a twin-turbo V8 engine and three electric motors. Together, the total power output of the car is 1,500 hp and 1,475 lb-ft of torque. Without a doubt, this is the most impressive car that Koenigsegg has ever created, and that's quite an accomplishment considering what they have created. Photo: Martin JuulAs for the Agera XS, this one is a bit new to everyone. I'll begin this car's explanation by saying it's essentially an Agera RS that's been modified to drive on US roads. In fact, it's the first Agera RS in the United States. "Why the XS name, though?" That name was given to the car at the customer's request. Photo: Arnaud TaquetThe car is finished in Karosserie Orange, with a diamond-dust metallic effect. Modifications made to this bright exterior include a bespoke aerodynamic pieces, as well as the largest rear wing ever that Koenigsegg has ever fitted to a car. Inside is black Alcantara with contrasting orange stitching. Even further inside the car is a 5.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that's mated to a CIMA seven-speed automatic transmission. Photo: Arnaud TaquetIf you're dying to see these cars, be sure to head to Monterey Car Week!View All Koenigseggs For Sale Photo: Arnaud Taquet

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – January 25, 2016

2016 Koenigsegg Agera RS: Price, Specs, Review and Photos

2016 Koenigsegg Agera RS Specs Price: TBD Engine: 5.0-liter twin turbo V8 Horsepower: 1160 bhp 0–60: TBD Top Speed: TBD Transmission: 7-speed automatic Torque: TBD Review In March 2015 Koenigsegg debuted their latest rendition of the famed Agera model— the 2016 Agera RS. According to a press release, the new hypercar “pushes the boundaries and takes the Agera to all new levels of performance.” The Swedish automaker wasn’t kidding. The Agera RS has a new front splitter and winglets, side skirts, dynamic underbody flap system and a dynamic active rear wing. ...only 25 examples of the model are being created All of these modifications contribute to the car’s aerodynamic ability, undoubtedly helpful to the aggressive 1,160 brake horsepower the engine puts out. Koenigsegg even gives buyers the option to modify the engine to run on E85 gasoline with flex fuel for more power. Even with all that muscle under the hood, the Agera RS can give a driver the best of both worlds; the car is equally capable on the racetrack and the road. Koenigsegg notes that this model complies with “the latest safety standards and other necessary homologation features.” If you want to add this beast to your collection, you better act fast—only 25 examples of the model are being created. Koenigseggs For Sale Buy Your Issue Now

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