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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 Andrew Nabors – August 27, 2020

2021 McLaren Senna Breaks Four Consecutive U.S. Track Rec...

One if by land, two if by sea was Paul Revere's warning of a looming English invasion. He would have needed four lanterns for this impressive achievement. That is because a stock 2021 McLaren Senna has broken four consecutive U.S. track records. In a press release this morning, McLaren announced they have set new records at Virginia International Raceway, Laguna Seca, and back-to-back lightning laps at the National Corvette Museum's Grand Course. With Andy Pilgrim behind the wheel, the car turned in the fastest ever lap for production cars at Corvette's home track. His lap time was 2:02.86 on the full course, and the timing loops clocked it at 1:23.34 on the West Circuit. Instrumentation measured 1.64g of grip in turn four, another unprecedented feat. At Virginia International, it covered 4.1 miles of the full course in 2:34.9, again taking honors for the fastest production car by reaching 172.9 mph on the front stretch. " width="680"> The average speed of that lap was 134.5 mph, another impressive accolade. Finally, they headed to Monterey to beat the 1:28 lap record at Laguna Seca. The Senna's time was 1:27.62, smashing a time that had stood for years. As a coup de grace for their competitors, the car was entered into the World's Greatest Drag Race where it delivered the quarter-mile in 10.08 and the half-mile in 15.65, crossing the finish line at over 171 mph. Browse McLaren Senna For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 26, 2020

1991 Singer Porsche 911 "Malibu" For Sale by Graham Rahal

Commissioned as"Malibu", it is the 71st Porsche 911 reimagined by Singer. The entire car is carbon fiber and coated in a unique shade of "Mintarrini". Ordered with every option, it has the chrome gas cap, vintage-style (powered) Recaros, and a retro Becker radio loaded with the latest in connectivity. Next to it is a tachometer that literally goes to 11. That's because the 4-liter flat-six was designed and built by Ed Pink to deliver 400 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. It takes Singer 10 months to build each car and they among the most valuable Porsches on the market. These cars are rarely sold, so don't miss this opportunity. Click the button below for all the details and stay with us for more amazing Singer Porsches. View Listing

By Andrew Nabors – August 26, 2020

2021 Jeep Wrangler 4XE Will Arrive With High Voltage 4WD

Jeeps are usually not loud, but a silent model will keep nature and your neighbors happy. People give offroaders a bad name because they somehow damage the environment. That is all about to change because the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4XE will arrive with high voltage 4WD. There is plenty of room for a battery between the frame rails, but we don't know if it will include a gas engine also. Here's to Jeep for such a bold move, and literally shocking the industry. Our dealers might give you a few hints, so click the button below and stay with us for all your Jeep news. Browse Jeep Wrangler For Sale https://www.facebook.com/jeep/videos/307936906947505

By Andrew Nabors – August 26, 2020

2021 Porsche Panamera Highlights

Now that the formal reveal is over, allow us to offer the juicy details of their "Executive Sedan". So without further adieu, here are the 2021 Porsche Panamera Highlights. Starting with the Panamera Turbo S, it has gained 80 horsepower and 37 lb-ft of torque. The twin turbo V8 reaches 62 mph in 3.1 seconds and it lapped the 'Ring in only 7:29.81, only a hair slower than the Camaro ZL1. It offers 630 horsepower, only 11 less than the same 4-liter in the Lamborghini Urus. " width="680"> If you need efficiency, the Panamera GTS offers 480 horsepower thanks to smaller turbos. It is programmed to respond like a naturally aspirated V8, with 457 lb-ft of torque. Hybrid fans rejoice because you will have 34 miles of electric range from an 18 kWh battery. Under the hood is their 2.9-liter twin-turbo that offers a combined output of 560 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The same gas engine is offered in the base model Panamera, and it is rated at 330 horsepower & 331 lb-ft of torque. No matter what model you choose, the chassis and suspension were tuned at Weissach to be the best luxury "Executive Sedan" and crossover on the market. Click the link below to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche Panamera For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 26, 2020

2021 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Teased for Next Summer

While Cadillac will be the first GM brand to become all-electric, Chevrolet will also share the same technology, as GM's Ultium battery division will offer 400 volts and more range than most gas-powered dinosaurs. That is why the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EUV was teased for next Summer. The new suffix stands for Electric Utility Vehicle, so we think it will be a hit with families and businesses alike. With the new GMC Hummer EV offering 11,500 lb-ft of torque, the Bolt might pack a punch. Browse Chevrolet For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 25, 2020

Lexus GX Gains Plush Amenities & Technology

Innovation never stops at Lexus. It seems as if engineers lose sleep over even the smallest details; and that is why the new Lexus GX 460 is gaining plush amenities and technology. Starting off with comfort, the windshield and all side glass is now sound insulated. A new Premium plus package includes Amazon Alexa, a heated wood steering wheel, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system with 4 USB ports. Their flagship 7-passenger SUV retains the 4.6-liter V8 rated at 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. This gives it a towing capacity of 6,500 lbs thanks to the standard Trailer Sway Control system. Gray Sapele wood and brushed aluminum coddle you while a 3-zone climate control keeps the family happy. The latest is safety includes pre-collision warning with automatic braking, lane departure alert, intelligent high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control. " width="680"> One option you must have is KDSS, it incorporates a sway-bar disconnect with hydraulic accumulators at each corner. They are linked to constantly move fluid to keep the SUV level on steep terrain. It is not unlike what McLaren does for their Super Series cars. A full-time 4WD system uses a TORSEN center differential to lock the power output at 40:60 front to rear. If you need more, it can be locked at 50:50 and you can select 3:1 low range in the transfer case. This enables crawl control to maintain a climb up aggressive grades. The front and rear differentials are "Virtually Locked by the computer modulating the brake calipers, this saves fuel in every situation by not having lockers inside the ring gears. Click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all your Lexus news. Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – August 25, 2020

Porsche Expands Subscription Service in Los Angeles

Buying or even leasing a Porsche is a major obligation, so why not subscribe? Now that rental car companies are falling like a house of cards, Porsche has announced an expansion of their subscription service in L.A. It is the same program offered in Atlanta, Phoenix, and San Diego. Subscribers will have access to the same Porsche for 3 months, at which point they can choose a different model. This allows members to take the ultimate test drive and its a brilliant move targeting a younger demographic to make them Porsche fans for life. See the New Porsche Panamera Premiere Here Klaus Zellmer, President and CEO of PCNA says: “If California were a country, it would be our fifth-largest market in the world. After bringing Porsche Drive to San Diego last summer, Los Angeles was an obvious choice to allow customers to experience a variety of Porsche sports cars and SUVs at the touch of an app. Now, in addition to our Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles track, LA residents or those visiting LA have another way to enjoy a Porsche". If you live near these cities, the program officially starts on September 25th, so click the button below to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – August 25, 2020

2012 ICON Jeep CJ3B for Sale

The best customers are repeat customers, so our friend Jonathan Ward and his team at ICON 4x4 are selling this one that was recently traded in. The Jeep CJ3B served in Korea and Vietnam, and the civilian versions like made perfect farm trucks. Using Jeep's wide range of farm accessories, the Hurricane straight-six and a Power Take Off were a more practical alternative to a tractor, lawnmower, tiller, etc. Even in poor condition, a CJ3B will start a bidding frenzy, so imagine what this one will sell for. As you know, ICON spares no expenses, so starting with a new Art Morisson frame, the body was blasted on a rotisserie before being block sanded arrow straight. A Chevrolet EcoTec 2.5-liter engine sends power to a 5-speed backed by a part-time transfer case. It has their proprietary 4-link suspension with Fox Racing coil-overs, modern brakes, and an instrument cluster of their own design. Given the spike in CJ5 and CJ7 prices, $88,000 is a bargain for this build. If you are interested, call them at 818-280-3333, or email feedback@icon4x4.com. Stay with us for all your ICON updates and incredible Jeeps for sale.

By Andrew Nabors – August 25, 2020

1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud Electrified by Lunaz

David Lorenz and his company Lunaz have caused a stir in the automotive world. With a full blessing by the original manufacturer, a 1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II has been electrified. This follows their previous builds of high-voltage Jaguar and Bentley classics. They are only building 30 examples, and customers can choose from a Phantom V or a Silver Cloud with prices starting at £350,000 ($457,000). For that, you will have a 120 kWh battery with over 300 miles of range. Of the project, David had this to say "The time is right for an electric Rolls-Royce. We are answering the need to marry beautiful classic design with the usability, reliability and sustainability of an electric powertrain. More than ever we are meeting demand for clean-air expressions of the most beautiful and luxurious cars in history. We are proud to make a classic Rolls-Royce relevant to a new generation.” Click the button below to find your Rolls-Royce and stay with us for all your classic car news. Browse Rolls-Royce For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 24, 2020

BMW Compares 2021 M4 & M4 GT3 at Austrian MotoGP

Motorcycle racing isn't as popular here as it is around the world. Nevertheless, the Red Bull Ring is the perfect place to introduce the 6th generation BMW Supercar. That is why we're thankful BMW compared the 2021 M4 against the M4 GT3 before the Austrian MotoGP. The new M4 will arrive with 510 horsepower from their straight-six engine. Three cylinders feed each of the twin turbos, giving it an aggressive and unique exhaust note. Thankfully, the manual transmission is still optional, and AWD examples will arrive early next year. Click the button below to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your BMW news. Browse BMW M4 For Sale " width="680">

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