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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 Tyler Rampersaud – July 14, 2023

Grigio Lynx 2020 Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Listed For Sale

As Lamborghini's last "pure" naturally-aspirated V12 flagship, the Aventador and especially its SVJ version are truly cherishable cars.

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 24, 2023

Stradman's New $14K Lamborghini Aventador Exhaust Shoots ...

Creating the perfect pitch for the Aventador's monstrous 6.5L V12, the Stradman fits his Lamborghini with a new straight-piped exhaust.

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By Tyler Rampersaud – April 03, 2023

NOVITEC Reveals New Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae Upgrades

With the help of NOVITEC, the Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae isn’t quite done yet.

2022 lamborghini aventador lp 780 4 ultimae.jpg

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 01, 2023

Viola Pasifae Pearl 2022 Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae Fo...

Being one of the last and most powerful Lamborghinis to feature a monstrous V12, this is the chance to secure a rare Aventador Ultimae.

By Andrew Nabors – June 23, 2020

Lamborghini SCV12 Unveiled With Their Most Powerful V12 E...

Owning and fielding a GT3 car is a life goal for many of us. While they are fast and fun, Lamborghini has just thrown shade on the world's sanctioning bodies. That is because their latest Squadra Corse race car arrives with the most powerful V12 they have ever offered. In a press release this morning we were taken aback by the 830 horsepower SCV12. While it shares styling influences with production cars and their recent concepts, engineers started with an all-new carbon fiber chassis. While street-legal Lamborghini models use aluminum subframes to carry the suspension and drivetrain, this new raging bull uses a sequential six-speed transmission as a stressed element of the chassis. Mounting the suspension pushrods directly to the gearbox saves weight while maintaining perfect suspension geometry. Turbulent air normally created behind the cockpit is rammed into the intake. Not only does the force-feed the big V12, but it also lowers drag in the process. Each car will be built-to-order, and eligible to race in Lamborghini events around the world. Squadra Corse engineers will keep your car in running shape. If you want to join an exclusive club and race on the world's most famous tracks, our dealers have all the information. Browse Lamborghini For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – March 26, 2020

Lamborghini Teases 2021 Squadra Corse V12 Hypercar

Driving your new Lamborghini Aventador on the street is exhilarating and rewarding. But you will never approach the limits of this raging bull on public roads. If you want to tame the meanest machines from Sant Agata, the track is waiting for you. That is why Lamborghini has teased their 2021 Squadra Corse V12 hypercar. The first rule is: Don't call it an Aventador. While they share the same lineage, the V12 is a track-only hypercar. In the latest press release from Squadra Corse, we learned it offers 830 horsepower. It is in the late stages of development as a collaboration between Squadra Corse and Centro Stile Lamborghini. Massive intakes, air ducts, and a few locking differentials will make for a fun track day, so click the button below to learn more from our dealers. Browse All Lamborghini For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – September 17, 2018

Lamborghini Aventador SVJ at Estoril Circuit for 1st Time

Lamborghini's latest achievement is the Aventador SVJ. It is only natural that they tease us at Portugal's most famous racing circuit. Estoril circuit has been home to F1 and Grand Prix racing since 1972. The challenges of elevation and crosswinds are the perfect place to display the car's abilities. Using the second generation of their active aerodynamic system, it can transfer downforce to any corner and reduce drag for the ultimate top-speed run. ALA 2.0 improves on the patented system that debuted on the Huracan Performante. We're guessing they are aiming for a record at every track. Since it reset our notions of the Nurburgring, stay with us for all your Aventador updates!Browse Lamborghini For Sale Here! View this post on Instagram Speed is its natural element. The new Lamborghini Aventador SVJ at @Circuito_Estoril, Portugal, for the first time on a racetrack. #Estoril #AventadorSVJ #Lamborghini #CircuitoDoEstoril A post shared by Lamborghini (@lamborghini) on Sep 17, 2018 at 9:45am PDT

By Andrew Nabors – July 05, 2018

Netflix "Fastest Car" Features Lamborghini Aventador S

One of the hottest automotive shows on Netflix is "Fastest Car". Hosted by Pepper Yandell, it caught the eye of Lamborghini when he reviewed the Huracan. For a command performance, they allowed him to drive a stunning Aventador S as part of the "Passione Italia" event. In a press release last night, we see a stunning Giallo Orion Aventador S.Justin Bieber Has Lamborghini Aventador S DeliveredThey allowed him to drive from the factory in Sant'Agata to the Adriatic coast. Through Tuscany and ending in Florence, it will be featured on an upcoming episode of his series. The Aventador S is not just a fresh face on the same car we love, it is packed with upgraded electronics, magnetic suspension and rear wheel steering. That last feature alone is worth every penny because it allows this supercar to turn in tight circles and navigate narrow roads with ease. Click the link below to experience it for yourself and stay with us for all your Lamborghini news.Browse Lamborghini Aventador S For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 24, 2018

Lamborghini's Future Might Be Hybrid

Its ok to have a big naturally aspirated engine. But it is also ok to help it out with a few batteries. That is the notion that Lamborghini's CEO Stefano Domenicali confirmed to Top Gear Magazine. Both the Huracan and Aventador's successors will have plug-in capabilities and a limited range of electric cruising.Lamborghini Aventador Prototype Spied. SVJ?“The big questions are packaging and weight," Maurizio Reggiani, Lamborghini’s chief technical officer, told Top Gear. "Yes, this will be a silent Lamborghini, but push the accelerator and the engine will come. Silence will only last for some seconds then comes the sound.”The V10 and V12 engines aren't going anywhere, so don't worry. Just imagine a fully charged system boosting torque for a blistering AWD launch. The next Aventador is scheduled to arrive in 2020, probably for the '21 model year. He also said a pure electric drivetrain won't be able to perform up to their standards in the near future. The raging bulls are getting a high voltage cattle prod, it might just make them even more ferocious! Stay with us for all your Lamborghini newsBrowse Huracan Spyder For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 11, 2018

Lamborghini Aventador Prototype Spied. SVJ?

One of the most exciting events of the year happens in early April. The Industrie-Pool is a gathering of the worlds fastest production cars along with their engineers. To level the playing field, everyone gathers at the legendary Nurburgring. In a video uploaded by EMS Nordschleife TV, we see all the usual suspects.The Corvette ZR1 has finally lost its camouflage, but it is still too loud for German race tracks and is forced to wear left-exit tailpipe extensions. The Lamborghini Urus and BMW Z5 are still undercover, and the Mercedes-AMG GTR is trying out a new front end. But the biggest shocker is a wild Lamborghini Aventador with a giant rear spoiler. Could this be the rumored Aventador SVJ or something along the lines of a Performante?Lamborghini Huracan Performante: Raging TechnologyWatch the video below and keep your eyes on the rear spoiler. The Huracan Performante makes use of a hollow rear spoiler. It releases high-pressure air that is fed through its supports to increase downforce. This prototype has supports at its right and left edges, perfect to send air up to the hollow blade. The Aventador SV could only be eclipsed by something more sinister, so as soon as we have more info, you will see it here first. Tell us what you think it is in the comments below and stay with us for all your Lamborghini news.

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