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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 Nicole Slaughter-Graham – June 28, 2016

The New 2017 Porsche Panamera: Superior Sport and Ultimat...

For the new Panamera, Porsche brings together the best in sport and luxury, incorporating famous elements of its other models and making key improvements and changes. Engine: 4.0-liter V6 or V8 biturbo Horsepower: 550 hp (an increase of 30 hp) 0-60: 3.8 seconds (Sport Chrono package: 3.6 seconds) Top Speed: 190 mph Torque: 626 lb-ft (increase of 52 lb-ft) The four-door Porsche has been redesigned almost completely with "long dynamic proportions, pronounced shoulders, athletic flanks" and a roof line like that of the 911, sinking down 20 mm lower in the back. The interior is representative of a bright, technologically inclined future. The cockpit includes a new, intuitive user interface with an interactive display, which is fully configurable. Touch-screens replace hard keys and the new interactive features benefit the back seat passengers just as much as the front.The new V6 and V8 biturbo engines champion fuel economy and decreased emissions without compromising power. In fact, their power has increased over the previous year's model. The Panamera will come in three versions: The Panamera Turbo, Panamera 4S and the Panamera 4S Diesel, all of which have permanent all-wheel drive as an option. The newly integrated turbochargers are located in the V of the cylinder banks, making the engine more compact, which brings about a better center of gravity.New assistance systems include night vision assistance and Porsche InnoDrive. The former uses thermal imaging cameras and specialty lights while the latter is designed for adaptive cruise control. Additional features include online navigation.The newly designed four-door coupe concept is a little different than a saloon and encompasses all of the power and innovation Porsche is known for. The model can be ordered now and will be available for delivery in early November 2016. Starting prices for the models are: Panamera 4S: $125,329 Panamera 4S Diesel: $129,684 Panamera Turbo: $169,666 These prices are approximate Euro conversions based on today's exchange rate Porsche Panamera for Sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 28, 2016

In the Driver's Seat: 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

One of the main reasons for Hyundai's continued success here is staying ahead of the curve wit standard content. The Elantra is all new for 2017, so they sent us one directly from the factory. Although it was designed in South Korea, North American Elantras are assembled in Montgomery, Alabama.Styling is a blend of Genesis and Sonata, with clever use of racing technology to improve fuel economy. A small front spoiler is used to direct airflow around the front wheels, which improves aerodynamics under the car. Our test car was the fully loaded Limited model, which arrived with the Ultimate package on top. We didn't know lane keeping assist and automatic braking were available, and they are just two of the features that set this compact apart from its competitors.This is the first Hyundai we have experienced with Smart Cruise and 8 speaker Infinity audio. While it might not have the best sound insulation or 20 way adjustable seats, Elantra proved to be a sensible commuter car. Around town, the 2.0L didn't feel strained, and it sips on fuel. To achieve 37 mpg on the highway, this engine runs on the Atkinson cycle, which holds the intake valve open later into the compression stroke. This allows it to use less fuel and air than a normal Otto cycle 2.0L, but low-end power is lost in the process. With driver and fuel, it is possible to weigh in under 3,000 lbs, which is another key to great mileage.Cushy MacPhereson struts up front and a twist-beam rear axle are the standard for compact sedans, and they do a great job of isolating the body from most annoyances. The six-speed automatic transmission has 3 driving modes (Eco, Normal & Sport) with their own shift parameters. Pushing hard into a corner will evoke understeer, so we recommend against it. The most remarkable parts of the Elantra are all the smaller details you don't expect to find. The door handles have hidden LED approach lights. Instead of gauges, the instrumentation is handled by a 4.2" TFT screen. All four seats are heated, with the driver's having adjustable lumbar and memory settings.Backed by a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty, Elantra offers everything you could need in a daily driver. The price as tested was $27, 710, and for that you will receive all the safety and technology of the big guys without depreciation being such a concern. If you don't need the size and weight of a mid-size car, Elantra is your next car.

By Andrew Nabors – June 28, 2016

BMW: Largest M Delivery Of All Time 34,000 Horsepower

If you choose to have your BMW delivered at the factory, the BMW Welt in Munich is your next destination. Usually the deliveries are of the more normal production models, but last month was a milestone. In a record-setting move, one day was set aside for performance-minded customers, and 73 new Bavarian masterpieces met their new owners. Of those new cars, 45 were the new BMW M4 GTS.The BMW Welt (BMW World) is a futuristic customer interaction center located on the grounds of company headquarters. Adjacent to their museum, it has interactive displays of cars and motorcycles, meeting spaces for special events, and even a restaurant. Rarely do customers get to meet the engineers and employees who built their car, so we're glad a film crew was on hand for the occasion. Be sure to check in with our main site, as you will undoubtedly see a few of these M's for sale in the near future.M4 for sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 28, 2016

Top Gear USA: Cancelled

With a heavy heart, we learned that Top Gear USA will not be returning after this season. Rutledge Wood announced on Twitter last night that the final episode will be airing this week. Many initially derided the program because perfection can't be improved upon. But with the impending launch of The Grand Tour, A&E figures that prime time shouldn't be filled with automotive content. I'm very sad to say, but Tuesday night's #TopGear on @History is the last TG US that we have shot for you. I'm not saying Top Gear USA is done, but it's done for the immediate future on @History . I remember the day that I got the phone call to ask if I'd be interested in talking to one of the producers about possibly being one of the hosts of the US's version of the world's most iconic car show. It's been an amazing ride for sure, and although I don't think the show is done, it appears that it's done with our friends at History, and we're incredibly grateful for being a part of the A&E Networks family. I have had so much fun with Tanner and Adam, they really are like brothers to me. We've traveled this amazing country and to some of the coolest places on earth together, and even in the hardest moments, it's been a total dream come true. The three of us will stick together and hope to bring you much more Top Gear USA, albeit it somewhere else it appears. To the FANS- we cannot say enough how much we truly appreciate each and every one of you. You have always been there for us in great numbers, and we really do love you all. You are the reason shows like ours exist, and you're also the reason we've been so lucky to do this show for so long together. We never dreamed how many families would sit and watch our show and laugh together. We never knew how many couples would sit and watch three goofballs go out and try to make each other laugh. And yet, you all watched...and you told other people and shared in the joy. To everyone who worked on TGUS- thank you. For everything. You're our family and you're the reason we got to do this for so many years together. So here's a toast to all of you out there. I hope you'll watch Tuesday night and enjoy the last show we made for you. We took a trip of a lifetime down to Cuba and drove classic American cars from the 50's down there, and I can tell you it's one of the coolest things we have ever done together. Cheers and lots of love, Rutledge A photo posted by @rutledgewood on Jun 26, 2016 at 7:25pm PDT Eight years is a good run for cable, but Rutledge alludes this could just be a hiatus. Regardless of where your allegiances lie, tell us your favorite scene from TG USA below in the comments. Stay tuned for all your motoring entertainment news.

By Andrew Nabors – June 27, 2016

Jay Leno Crashes And Rolls In The Hurst Hemi Under Glass

Roll cages are the difference between life and death in motorsports. NHRA requires any car running 10.99 or faster to have at least a 6 point cage to protect the occupants. For the latest episode of Jay Leno's Garage, a segment on the legendary wheel standing Hemi Under Glass didn't go according to plan. For a quick history lesson, the Hemi Under Glass was a series of wheel standing Barracudas built by Hurst Performance. For entertainment during drag racing intermissions, the rear engined monsters would carry the front wheels down the 1/4 mile track.(Also Check Out: Jay Leno's Garage Season 2 Episode 1: Supercars (Full Episode))Bob Riggle has been the wheelman for Hurst for over 50 years, so Jay decided to ride along at Irwindale speedway for a wheels-up run. Unfortunately, the uneven landing surface of the infield caused wheel hop during braking. Wheel standers aren't good at cornering because they lack sway bars. The sway bar connects left to right sides and keeps the car planted in the corners. Since they are heavy, most drag racers choose to trash them once their car becomes a track only machine. Along with a helmet and a 5 point harness, a cage should be on your list if you plan to push the limits of your car. Once it cools off in FL we will be installing a roll cage into our 1968 Charger project car, but in the meantime stay tuned to Autofluence for more updates from Jay Leno's Garage.Plymouth Barracuda For Sale

By Edward Jones – June 27, 2016

New 2017 Ford GT '66 Heritage Edition Unveiled

For the previous generation Ford GT, there was the Heritage Edition, which paid homage to the iconic Gulf livery. This time around, the new 2017 Ford GT will have a new Heritage Edition that is modeled after another livery that can be recognized all over the world.Unveiled in a press release issued today, Ford showed off their new '66 Heritage Edition that pays respect to the No. 2 race car. Back in 1966, Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon drove a GT40 Mark II donning the same number to victory at Le Mans. Now, 50 years later, a fitting tribute to that victory will be brought into the world. “Celebrating the anniversary of Ford’s historic victories at Le Mans has always been a part of the return of the Ford GT. The 2017 Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition is a stunning tribute to the car that kicked off Ford’s string of Le Mans victories in 1966.” - Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, product development, and chief technical officer (Also Read: Whatever Happened To The Ford GT90?)To create the iconic livery, this edition comes with a Shadow Black exterior that can be applied in either a gloss or matte finish. Along with the finish, silver stripes and exposed carbon fiber can be found on the American supercar's exterior. Inside, Ebony leather is found on the seats, instrument panel, pillars and headliner. To signify the car's importance, there are serialized ID plates.If you're interested, act quick, because the '66 Heritage Edition will only be available for the 2017 Ford GT model.New Ford GT For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 24, 2016

Germany vs Italy: Lamborghini Huracan vs Mercedes-AMG C63

DragTimes knows how to stage a real race. We have been following a strange trend in motorsports. No matter what type of race you attend, a Lamborghini Huracan is either competing, or at least on display by one of the participants. The reasoning behind this could be stunning Italian styling, or it might have something to due with their ability to put over 600 hp to all wheels, all the time.(Related: Tesla Model S P85D Ludicrous Mode vs Lamborghini Huracan)As a worthy competitor, the previous generation C63 AMG sedan packed the final version of AMG's 6.2L V8 tuned to 481 hp. But this car has been heavily modified by Weistec Engineering to make 770 hp. But that power is only sent to the rear wheels, and the steel-bodied sedan has a major weight disadvantage compared to a carbon fiber coupe.We're not sure if lane choice had anything to do with the outcome here, but something went wrong on the tower side. Pay close attention to the 60' times in the results, because races are won and lost on the holeshot. Kudos to DragTimes for using a pro tree instead of sportsman, its a great divider between amateur and professional competitors. Stay tuned to Autofluence for more heads up 1/4 mile action.Huracans For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – June 24, 2016

Revealed: 2018 Mercedes-AMG GT R

Straight out of the green hell of the jungle comes the new Mercedes-AMG GT R, fully equipped with AMG driver, Lewis Hamilton, swerving and skidding through the Nurburgring racetrack which portrays an Amazonian-esque setting. If the luxury brand's goal was to grab attention and thrill and audience, they succeeded.Revealed today, the new Mercedes-AMG GT R, brings the most demanding features of a track-ready supercar to the streets.Mercedes-AMG GT R Specs Engine: Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo with Dry-Sump Lubrication Horsepower: 577 hp 0-60: 3.5 seconds Top Speed: 198 mph Torque: 516 lb-ft The new GT R combines lightweight construction with modified suspension and new aerodynamics, which results in superior performance and an edge in handling. Finished in the exclusive AMG green hell magno, the GT R is sure to stand out in a crowd. Further modifications include wider front and rear fenders and a large rear aerofoil with rear fascia and double diffuser designed to enhance aerodynamics, tighten turns and provide maximum grip.ExteriorDesigned with the track in mind, the new Mercedes-AMG GT R is powerful, long and forged with well-known AMG performance. Design and aerodynamics go hand in hand with this project, signifying a tight relationship between the two design and engineering teams to create a truly track-worthy vehicle. Athletic and strong, the exterior body is dynamic and powerful with pointed edges and an arrow-like front end. Front fenders are made of light carbon and include specially designed cooling vents. AMG Performance forged wheels are finished in 10-spoke matte black.InteriorNappa leather and DINAMICA microfiber cover race inspired seats and are complimented by yellow accents including seat belt sand special AMG Black Piano Lacquer interior trim and controls. A wide dashboard exudes an aviation look and includes a multitude of vents including individuals on either edge. A freestanding central display and center console adorn the midsection of the interior with high-quality AMG Drive Controls.Want to check out the full experience? Lewis Hamilton will take you on a tour of the North Loop of the Nurburgring racetrack in the video below.

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – June 23, 2016

Revealed: Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage Special Edition

Lamborghini continues its dedication to the Miura with a special edition Aventador. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic V12 supercar, Lamborghini unveiled a newly re-envisioned museum the same day they sent of 50 Miuras for the annual Miura tour. But that wasn't enough, of course.The Italian supercar producer is making a statement of tribute with this special edition Aventador Miura Homage. Just 50 examples of the newly minted tribute will see production, most of which are already sold. Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage Specs Engine: 6.5-liter V12 Horsepower: 700 hp 0-60: 2.9 seconds Top Speed: 217 Torque: 509 lb-ft The exterior stays loyal to the original Miura with a two-toned finish. Like the Miura, which was customized in a multitude of color combinations, the upper body color is complimented by a lower body color on the Aventador. Six of the most popular Miura color combinations, a mixture of solid and metallic finishes, will adorn the 50 Aventador Miura Homage units. Additionally, 20' or 21' Dion matte gold or silver rims will compliment the body.Owners are greeted by a full leather interior and have two color options: Nero Ade or Terra Emilia. The interior will also feature a carbon fiber package and two-tone stitching. The upper section of the seats will be adorned with a gold or silver Miura 50th logo.This special edition Aventador will first be shown at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom in June. It will continue to make appearances at subsequent Lamborghini events.Lamborghini Aventadors for Sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 23, 2016

Hennessey Performance's 800 Horsepower 25th Anniversary M...

John Hennessey and team are celebrating a quarter century in the business with a limited run of 800 hp Mustangs. By reverse engineering Ford's latest 5.0L V8 and adding a massive supercharger, the new HPE800 offers 804 hp and 648 lb-ft of torque. To reach this level of power undoubtedly involves changes to the valve train, and exhaust. Ford's 5.0L "Coyote" V8 is a masterpiece of design, but variable valve timing and multiple chains add complexity to any engine work. So as long as they are going that far, why not replace the intake with a 2.9L supercharger?To keep it 50 state legal, the factory catalytic converts are retained, but a new axle-back system reduces back pressure. Their own H10 forged wheels are wrapped in Michelin Super Sport tires. Suspension is a collaboration of Hennessey and KW, with progressive rate springs to retain a comfy ride. Putting a stop to this incredible power are Brembo 15" front brakes. Each car will have numbered badges inside and out, along with embroidered headrests. Their test mule was capable of going 10.7 seconds in the quarter mile at 133 mph. With drag slicks you will be at 60 mph in only 3.1 seconds. So if you think you can handle it, click the button below to learn about how you can get yourself one.Learn MoreOne notch below this car is the HPE750, and it went 207.9 mph at their proving grounds. Mustangs For Sale

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