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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 – November 04, 2020

Nike Launches New Luxury Line

Nike is considered a leader in the sportswear apparel and footwear industry, but they also play a significant role in creating lifestyle-driven clothing as well. The new Every Stitch Considered (ESC) Collection launched by Nike incorporates styles that bridge the gap between sportswear and luxury everyday clothing. The use of premium materials and current designs allow Nike to offer an experimental collection for men and women. Italian craftsmanship sets the Nike ESC Collection apart from any other lifestyle clothing line done by other sportswear brands. The line includes simplistically designed jackets, shirts, pants, and shorts. Some of the products are currently available through Nike, with more styles set to release soon. Shop the Nike Every Stitch Considered Collection by clicking the link below. Shop The Nike ESC Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 22, 2020

How To Buy The KITH For BMW 2020 Collection

Recently, we covered a story announcing the KITH for BMW 2020 collaboration. A partnership derived from the redesign of the new 2021 BMW M4, as well as the rebuild of Ronnie Fieg’s E30 M3. The iconic M-Division colors and logos are slightly redesigned to sport the KITH branding as well. The collection is soon to release and will include jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, vests, tracksuits, sweatsuits, hats, and lifestyle/driving accessories for the fall/winter months. Date: October 23, 2020Where: KITH Website Source: KITH Website Source: KITH Website

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 21, 2020

Watch Daniel Ricciardo's GQ Top 10 Essentials Episode

GQ released a video on YouTube sitting down with Formula One driver Daniel Ricciardo to find out his top ten essential items. As a race car driver, the public is led to believe that most of what Daniel has chosen would be automotive-inspired, but future viewers will be pleasantly surprised. Whether it's party shirts or diaries, the Australian will always be considered a humorous breath of fresh air, both on and off the track. Click on the video below to see what Daniel Ricciardo holds near and dear to him " width="680">

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 21, 2020

Daniel Arsham's Platinum Porsche Key Created By EYEFUNNY

Recently, we covered the story of Daniel Arsham unveiling his Porsche 930A Project, a complete rebuild and redesign of his vehicle. The Porsche holds significance as a historic example using period correct parts and visuals along with added Daniel Arsham custom pieces. Daniel made it known that as time went on, he would release more stories and updates about the build. The most recent being the key that turns over the flat 6-cylinder turbocharged engine of the Porsche 930A. The solid platinum custom key was created by Japenese jewelry designer EYEFUNNY. The inspiration behind the one of one key derives from Daniel Arsham’s infamous eroded design. The Daniel Arsham x EYEFUNNY Platnium Porsche 930A Key is a magnificently functional piece of art. View All Porsche 930 For Sale Source: EYEFUNNY Instagram

By Andrew Nabors – October 07, 2020

Porsche Design x Puma XETIC Collection Now Available

When these two brands collaborate, the outcome is always amazing. XETIC is a blend of foam and a proprietary structure developed by a world-renowned technological institute. The three styles that dropped are the XETIC L, XETIC MESH, and the XETIC M SHIFT. PUMA´s FutureLab has developed a unique shock absorption system made of structured foam to ensure maximum damping in every step. The development of this unique sole structure was enabled through the study of auxetic materials, which behave in a certain way when they are subjected to mechanical stresses such as compression. This extraordinary structure not only gives the new Porsche Design sneaker models their name, but it also exhibits the key design highlight in this footwear collection. XETIC L The innovative technology for special cushioning, a combination of foam and a special structure, has been developed in collaboration with a renowned technological institute. The XETIC L combines the comfort of a classic leather lace-up shoe with that of a technical trainer. Shop Porsche Design XETIC MESH The Porsche Design XETIC Mesh relies on a forward-looking design. The textured upper gives this shoe a modern, almost futuristic look and a comfortable walking experience. Shop Porsche Design XETIC M SHIFT A further variant of the XETIC Mesh: Progressive design language with iridescent reflector sections. A comfortable shoe for the whole day. The mesh material is 100% recycled and the sock liner consists of 30% algae. Shop Porsche Design As always, stay with us for the latest Porsche Design news, and accessories for the discerning automotive enthusiast.

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 01, 2020

New $4,750 Porsche Design Speaker Features Porsche 911 GT...

The sound that exits the exhaust of a Porsche 911 GT3 is best described as music to our ears. Porsche has taken that statement quite literally with their newly designed limited edition soundbar. The Porsche Design Studio’s 911 Special Edition Soundbar is presented using an actual rear muffler off of a Porsche 911 GT3. An aesthetically pleasing black gloss finish has been added to the soundbar to compliment any home. The system includes Dolby Atmos, 300 watts of power, and 4-K compatible HDMI connection with the ability to stream audio through Spotify Connect and Chromecast. A white base plate holds the black GT3 muffler, making the contemporary color combination an eye capturing example. The Porsche Design Studio 911 Soundbar will be released in December and limited to 500 pieces for the price of $4,750. A collector piece for any Porsche or audio enthusiast looking for a unique addition for home entertainment. View All Porsche 911 GT3 For Sale

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 25, 2020

Buy Daniel Ricciardo's Mini Helmet

Fans of Formula One driver Daniel Ricciardo know that his style and personality are just as bright as some of the graphics on his helmet designs for each season. His DR Collection features a replica mini helmet sporting his 2020 season design. The gray leopard pattern is complemented with vibrant colored designs, making it easy to spot the Australian driver anywhere on the track. The mini helmet is designed to a 1:2 scale with small details such as sponsor decals to ensure authenticity. Daniel has incorporated his personal touches by including his “become unstuck” statement, a smile you’re on camera, and infamous honey badger decals. Finally, a Conifer Race Service logo embedded on the back showing respect for the artistic brilliance of the design. Shop the Daniel Ricciardo 2020 1:2 Scale Mini Helmet by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 02, 2020

Brabus x Alexander Laible Wine Collaboration

Brabus is best known for modifying Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, and Smart vehicles to look more aggressive while at the same time increasing output horsepower using specialty parts and tuning. They have recently piled into the Mercedes-Maybach Brabus 900 and headed towards the wine country in quest of a new project. The Brabus team has partnered with renowned wine creator Alexander Laible to produce and bottle their own modified version. Brabus understands from their business model if you want to be the best you have to work with the best. Alexander Laible is the Mercedes-Benz to the equation. The German winery received five world championships at The Vienna Wine Challenge and was labeled “ Best Riesling in Germany ” for the past two consecutive years. The 2019 Dry Riesling is titled “Atmosphere” and will be limited to 999 bottles, each repeatedly numbered on the label. The purchase of a Brabus high-performance vehicle would be the perfect occasion to open a bottle of Brabus x Alexander Laible Atmosphere to celebrate. Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – August 28, 2020

DNA Lamborghini Tells the Story of the Raging Bulls

Librarians be warned, the Dewey Decimal System has no classification for this masterpiece. Gold and carbon fiber have been combined to form the official book of the brand. DNA Lamborghini tells the story of the Raging Bulls and it deserves to be on your top shelf. From the Publishing House D'Oro Collection, it was written by Antonio Ghini and illustrated by Mitja Borkert. Over 300 pages detail every car from 1963 to now, and it is bound by hand. Only 250 numbered copies will be offered at $16,973 each, so click the button below to reserve yours and stay with us for all your Lamborghini news. Shop Now

By Andrew Nabors – August 27, 2020

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 Celebrates Their 95th Anniversary

After nearly a century building the world's best audio equipment, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 celebrates their 95th anniversary. The Danish duo of Peter Bang & Svend Olufsen began making radios, headphones and loudspeakers before the Nazis burned down the factory. Nevertheless, they rebuilt and expanded their lineup to include electric razors, art-deco TV sets, and audio with unmatched style and Scandinavian design. https://www.facebook.com/bangolufsen/videos/257119015252808 Their latest achievement is the H95, the world's most advanced Active Noise Canceling headphones. Only 95 examples will be available when they debut on September 10th. Each pair offers 38 hours of playback time with noise cancelation or 50 hours without. Other outstanding features include titanium drivers, Amazon Alexa, Google Voice, and they are certified for Google Fast Pair, Made for iPhone, and Microsoft Swift Pair. Bluetooth 5.1 is standard, as is a USB-C charging port and a normal 1/8" cord input. Click the button below to reserve yours and stay with us for the latest in luxury audio. Shop Now

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