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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 – January 18, 2021

2021 BMW M3 & M4 Tire Sizes Explained

Summer is just around the corner, and cornering is essential to all of us. To make sure you are getting the most from your rubber, here are the 2021 BMW M3 and M4 tire sizes explained. While lesser automakers will take advantage of tire technology, BMW's M Division has pushed tire makers back to the drawing board. 2021 BMW M3 & M4 Cooling System Explained Thanks to the quick response of the differential, the new M3 and M4 are offered with 275mm-wide front tires. The rears are only 10mm wider, with diameters staggered by an inch. Much like the performance increases and weight cuts, improvements to the contact patch offers incredible driving dynamics. Imagine the crisp turn-in at your fingertips, then click the button below for the ultimate driving machine. Browse BMW M3 For Sale Browse BMW M4 For Sale " width="680"> Image (C) BMW.com

By Andrew Nabors – January 06, 2021

Fast Financials 2020 Q4: BMW Bounces Back

Taking a hit early on in the game can be saved with a perfect Hail Mary, and that is what we see in our latest Fast Financials. BMW bounces back in the final quarter of 2020 to offset Covid losses earlier in the year. Compared to Q4 of 2019, sales were only down by 2%, more than many automakers could pull off. BMW Opens 3D Printing Campus In Munich BMW Chart by TradingView The real hit came early in the year, as the assembly plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina was closed to protect the workers. This caused the total 2020 deliveries to be down by 17.5%, with 278,732 cars compared to the 338,003 sold in 2019. Being able to get back in the saddle is tough for such a big brand, so we applaud them for continuing to build "The Ultimate Driving Machine". Click the button below to find yours. Browse BMW For Sale Image (C) BMW

By Andrew Nabors – November 12, 2020

BMW iX Is A Glimpse Of The Future

Taking in the automotive news released in the past 24 hours, the world will receive several unprecedented concepts before the end of the year. Not to be eclipsed by other electric luxury offerings, the upcoming BMW iX is a glimpse of the future. While it is still in development they have allowed us a sneak peak at what we will probably receive. Much like the i3, their goal is to offer an interior of sustainable materials. Wood and natural fibers offer a sense of holistic wellbeing and relaxation for the occupants. Recycled plastics inside and out allow for a low curb weight compared to other high-voltage SUVs. This allows it to only use 21 kWh for every 62 miles. Currently, it has a range of more than 300 miles. The electric motors have a combined output of 500 horsepower, and the batteries can charge from 10% to 80% in under 40 minutes. It will be more powerful and more efficient as development progresses, so we will be following this one closely to help you make an informed decision. Tell us what you think of the iX and stay with us for all your BMW news. Browse BMW For Sale " width="680">

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 23, 2020

How To Buy The KITH Edition 2021 BMW M4 Competition Coupé

The KITH x BMW collaboration began as clothing inspired collection that has started to unfold into something much larger. The partnership came at the perfect time, just weeks before the world premiere of the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé. BMW has announced that an exclusive KITH special edition version of the new M-Division vehicle will be available for purchase. The BMW M4 Competition x KITH project features unique exterior and interior design details that will not be available on standard models. The fleet of ultra-rare editions will be limited to 150 chassis and three available color options, with available pre-orders beginning on October 23rd at 5 pm EST. In addition, KITH is also releasing the new 96-piece BMW inspired clothing collection on their website. Date: October 23rd, 2020 Time: 5 pm EST Where: BMW Website

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 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">

By Andrew Nabors – June 02, 2020

2021 BMW 4-Series Coupe Unveiled

Being a coupe in a world of Sport Utilities is tough these days. That's why its hard to get by with re-skinning the same chassis. Instead of following industry trends, BMW has done what they always do. Going all in, they dissected every part and to improve upon it. After two years of late nights and simulations, the 2021 BMW 4-Series coupe has been unveiled. Compared to the 2020 model the new car is 5.2 inches longer, 1.0 inch wider, & 0.4 inches taller. Both the front and rear track widths are almost 1.5" wider, which increases grip exponentially in all situations. Sure, the styling is bold; but that is what enthusiasts have been begging for. Power comes from a 2-liter turbo-four or a 3-liter turbo straight-six. While the former sends 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft to rear or all wheels, the M440i xDrive is only offered in AWD. You will have 382 horsepower and 364 lb-ft of torque to all corners. Choose between 225 or 255 mm tires on 18" or 19" wheels. It appears as if the 8-speed automatic stands alone, though we hope for a proper six-speed stick eventually. Pricing starts at $45,600, so click the button below to find our dealer near you. Browse BMW 430i For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – February 05, 2020

BMW Unveils Aerodynamic Wheels for the iX3

Engineers in South Carolina are working hard to make sure their first electric SUV is flawless. Planned to launch later this year, BMW has unveiled aerodynamic wheels for the iX3. By combining cast aluminum with composite inserts, drag has been reduced by 5%, and the lighter weight will offer a comfortable ride. It has lowered power usage by 2% or 0.4 kWh per 62 miles. It might not seem like much, but this small innovation has added 6.2 miles (100km). We will have complete details of the new iX3 as soon as they are published, so stay with us for all your BMW news. Exotic Sports Cars For Sale

By Edward Jones – October 04, 2019

New BMW X6 M and X5 M Competition Models Detailed in Pict...

The new BMW X6 M Competition and X5 M Competition models have been revealed with an enormous amount of power-- 625 horsepower, to be exact. BMW has made learning about these the enhancements in these models incredibly simple with a few images that lay it all out. From the "M-specific hexagonal quilting" to the "21-inch M light-alloy wheels," it can all be found in the images down below. BMW M5 M Competition see all bmw x5's for sale BMW M6 M Competition see all bmw x6's for sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 26, 2019

Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 vs 740 HP BMW F10 M5

This one is bound to ruffle some feathers. Allow me to preface this video by saying that Lamborghini and BMW both build amazing machines. I would own both, but I couldn't pass up a great offer on a CTS-V. That being said, what do you think happens when a Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 meets a 740 horsepower BMW F10 M5? Browse BMW M5 For Sale In the foreground is a Raging Bull sending over 600 horsepower to all wheels. The Bavarian opponent has a twin-turbo V8 that has a few upgrades. The film was uploaded by cvdzijden - Supercar Videos from the recent SCC500 Rolling50 1000. Lamborghini Murcielago Specs, Price, Photos & Review Roll racing is folks who can't drive, but it clearly shows if a car is geared for acceleration or top speed. Tell us which car you would own in the comments below, and stay with us for more high-speed competitions. " width="680"> Related: BMW M5 Edition 35 Years Unveiled

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