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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 – October 15, 2020

2021 KTM X-BOW GTX Will Arrive Ready To Race

Austria has been home to many of the world's best engineers. From the Porsche family to Abarth, and Glock, a young Nikola Tesla lived there for 20 years in order to learn how to turn ideas into inventions. Hans Trunkenpolz started selling DKW (Audi) motorcycles in 1934 before starting his own brand Kraftfahrzeug Trunkenpolz Mattighofen. KTM bikes are still rugged and powerful, just like their cars. To give the world the ultimate featherweight supercar, the 2021 KTM X-BOW GTX will arrive ready to race. LaFerrari vs KTM SuperDuke Tug-Of-War It is a carbon fiber masterpiece that tips the scales at 2,310 lbs. Behind the cockpit is Audi's latest 2.5-liter turbo that sends 530 horsepower to a Hollinger sequential transmission. To make it race-compliant, a tubular steel cage is welded together inside the carbon fiber body like a ship in a bottle. You have twice the strength of a street-legal car with half the weight. The first person to title one in the US will get a lifetime subscription to our magazine, so you have your orders. Stay with us for all your supercar news. Learn More

MA12000 Angle Right remote background Balanced

By Andrew Nabors – October 12, 2020

McIntosh MA12000 Offers Incredible Power & Modular Upgrades

Imagine if you will, having the ability to power your primary speakers at 350 watts. Given the opportunity, you might wonder what strings are attached, so allow us to blow your mind. The new McIntosh MA12000 offers incredible power and modular upgrades in a stylish enclosure. It can push 350 watts each to your left and right primaries. Resistance is futile, as it offers the same constant power a 2, 4, or 8 ohms. The preamp uses 4 elegant vacuum tubes visible through the front glass. McIntosh Audio for the Jeep Grand Wagoneer Is Aural Perfection Straddling them are McIntosh's iconic blue output meters and are 8 tone-control knobs for fine-tuning. To stay ahead of digital music formats, the included DA2 module can be removed and replaced when McIntosh releases its predecessor. With 10 analog inputs and 7 digital (including ARC), this colossus demands respect. Of course, it can act as a pass-thru for your existing home theater system, so click the button to learn more and stay with us for all your audio news. Learn More

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 06, 2020

Remembering Eddie van Halen And His Iconic Lamborghini Mi...

The recent news of rock star Eddie van Halen’s passing has left fans deeply saddened, while many will celebrate his life by playing the songs that made him one of the greatest musicians. Eddie Van Halen was a staple to the rock and roll music industry, but also a key member of the automotive community. A video from We Are Curated features John Temerian talking about one of Eddie’s most prized possessions, a 1970 Lamborghini Miura S Widebody that he would use as a daily driver. The same vehicle made its infamous appearance in Van Halen’s “Panama” song. The Miura is rumored to be a factory one-off car for over 30 years, with its legacy living on just as Eddie van Halen’s will. " width="680"> " width="680">

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 05, 2020

Perrelet Takes The New Turbine Pilot Watch Collection To ...

Perrelet timepieces are designed and crafted using state of the art technology while maintaining prestigious roots planted in 1777. The Perrelet Turbine produced as a pilot inspired piece is paired with functions to take to the sky. The new Turbine Pilot collection features a 48mm stainless steel PVD case with electric blue, yellow, and red color options available to compliment the black dial. The transparent case back provides a clear view of Perrelet’s self-winding movement. The mixed black rubber and alligator leather strap with a matching PVD stainless steel folding clasp tie the piece together. The new Perrelet Turbine Pilot Collection is currently available by clicking the link below. Shop The Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 05, 2020

BMW Motorrad Celebrates 40 Years Of All-Terrain With Spec...

Recently, BMW has announced new track-focused models in the form of both high-performance vehicles and motorcycles. For the individuals who are more inspired by all-terrain, BMW Motorrad constructed the 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure. A modern motorcycle celebrating 40 years of off-road focused riding. The color schemes for the BMW 1250 GS Series feature the classic M-Division shades, as well as a special edition retro black and yellow. The motorcycles are fully configurable with an array of storage accessories available to personalize each chassis. Configure and shop the new BMW Motorrad 1250 GS by clicking the link below. Shop Now " width="680">

2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 to pace 102nd Indianapolis 500

By Andrew Nabors – October 05, 2020

EV West Offers Tesla Power For Any Chevy V8

Since it was introduced in 1955, Chevrolet has produced over 100 Million small block V8 engines. This doesn't include Mercury Marine or Volvo Penta who base their inboards around the indestructible engine. What's more, the LS Series that debuted in 1997 has been the foundation for all their late-model motivation. So, if you have considered rebuilding your old friend, EV West now offers Tesla power for any Chevy V8. Working with Revolt Motors, their high-voltage kit bolts to any Chevrolet small block motor mounts, from 1955 to today. While also replacing the transmission with a single gear reduction, all you have to do is figure out what differential gears you want. I am guilty of swapping my 3.23 rear gears to 3.73 for harder launches in my Camaro. But this would make me want to find a set of 2.73 so I can enjoy long-range cruising and battery life. Imagine an El Camino loaded with a bed of batteries and a 1,000-mile range? My personal choice would be a 39 Suburban for a silent, gangster cruiser. Click the button below to find your Chevy and stay with us for all your EV news. Find Your Chevrolet Here

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By Jordan Aquistapace – October 05, 2020

Alpina Celebrates Aviation With A Limited Edition Startim...

Alpina is a brand that has shown dedication to aviation through a series of limited-edition automatic watches. The Alpina Startimer Pilot Heritage is a proven icon since its original release in 2015. Alpina announced the release of the updated version featuring a 44mm steel case with small hints from its predecessor, including the original font used in 1883. The matte black dial contrasts the luminescent beige markings, one being the classic Alpina triangle presented at the 12 o’clock position. A historic hinged case back has been added to reveal the Swiss-made mechanics of the calibre. The piece is limited to 1,883 pieces, paying homage to the year Alpina began as a company. The Alpina Aviation collection is currently available and found by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Andrew Nabors – October 01, 2020

2020 Shelby Mustang GT350 & GT350R Officially Discontinued

"Old soldiers never die, they simply fade away." Once the GT500 made its return, we knew this day was coming. So it is with a heavy heart that we must announce that the 2020 Shelby Mustang GT350 and GT350R will not be returning for the next model year. These cars offered the first American flat-plane V8. Essentially two incredible 4-cylinders sharing a crankshaft, they are a blast on the track. With a 9,000 rpm redline, power really arrived around 6,500 rpm. They sound exotic because its the same recipe Ferrari has used for decades. Even with the stock exhaust, shifting at 8,000 rpm is truly rewarding. Browse Shelby GT350 For Sale The R model delivers 527 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 429 lb-ft of torque. The GT350 has one less horsepower but it is heavier by 100 lbs. That is because the R has carbon fiber wheels and spoilers and less interior insulation. Air conditioning and audio were optional on the R, but rear seats and floor mats were not offered. Pricing for the R starts at $73,435, with the normal GT350 is $60,440. Because the GT500 offers 760 horsepower for $72,900, it is easy to see why they are riding off into the sunset. With the return of the Mach 1 next year, buyers will have 480 horsepower for around $50,000. Ford is not planning another use of the flat-plane crank for the time being, so its worth it to experience what a wild horse sounds like at 9,000 rpm. Browse Shelby GT350R For Sale The fun factor comes down to weight. The GT500 is 4,230 lbs while the GT350R is 3,700. How can these two Mustangs be almost 530 lbs apart? The power-to-weight ratio is nearly identical 0.14 for the GT350R and 0.17 for the GT500. That means I will choose the lighter car all day long. Two tons is too much for a muscle car, so click the buttons to find a GT350 or GT350R from our dealers.

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

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