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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 Edward Jones – September 17, 2020

PlayStation 5 Pre-Orders Are Live

The next-generation of gaming is now officially coming very soon as we now know the release date and prices of both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X consoles. While we learned of the specifics regarding the Xbox consoles just a bit ago, we now know the details of the PlayStation 5. There will be two consoles release on November 12, 2020. One of these consoles will be digital-only, lacking a disc drive, and it will cost $399. If you'd like a disc drive, it will cost $100 more for for a total of $499. We've also learned that the DualSense controller will cost $69.99 and some launch titles will also cost $69.99. Other accessories announced and priced include the HD Camera ($59.99), Pulse 3D wireless headset ($99.99) and media remote ($29.99). Pre-orders on the PS5 are happening fast so act quick. You can pre-order the disc-drive version from Sam's Club by clicking the button below-- that's if they are still available. Pre-Order Now

By Andrew Nabors – September 17, 2020

2021 Ford Ranger Tremor Is Off-Road Ready

Some trucks are built to be pretty, and usually this kills their abilities where the pavement ends. If you can't justify the price and proportions of late-model trucks, the midsize market is hotter than ever. Once Dearborn announced the Ranger Raptor wouldn't be sold in the U.S., Chevrolet responded with the Colorado ZR2. While it is a capable machine, the 2021 Ford Ranger Tremor is off-road ready. " width="680"> Browse Ford Ranger For Sale Ford's latest press release includes juicy details like Fox Racing 2.0 monotube suspension, 32" Continental Grabbers, flared fenders, and six auxiliary toggle switches ready for your accessories. Available on the Lariat and XLT models, you will have reinforced front spindles, skid plates, rock slider steps, and a locking rear differential. The approach angle is nearly 31 degrees with a departure of 25.5. Suspension travel has been increased to 6.5" on the front and 8.1" for the rear axle. Power from the 2.3-liter EcoBoost is unchanged with 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Tremor only adds $4,290 to the window sticker, so click the button above to learn more from our dealers.

By Andrew Nabors – September 16, 2020

Porsche Previews LeMans 2020

Gaston, Arthur, and Louis Chevrolet were famous racers from France who also happened to start a car company. Dr. Porsche was locked up in France for being German. Nevertheless, Porsche and Chevrolet have been rivals since the beginning. With recent back-to-back wins at Sebring and Daytona, you might be looking forward to another battle royale, so here is how Porsche previews LeMans 2020. Unfortunately, Chevrolet Racing decided to skip the race this year. Not because they are not up for it, they are in the final testing phases of testing the 2021 Corvette Z06. It will feature the same 5.5-liter flat-plane V8 that won both races, it will be unrestricted by the "Balance of Performance" rules. Tell us who you would like to see on the podium and stay with us for all your LeMans updates. Browse Porsche 911 For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – September 15, 2020

Vanderhall Unveils the New and Electric Navarro SUV

Vanderhall Motor Works has been pushing forward with expanding. For starters, the size of their factory is being doubled, making room for some incredible ideas. One of those ideas happens to be a momentous new model for Vanderhall. Called the Navarro, this new model is actually a four-wheel, electric SUV. You can see the reveal of the Navarro in the video down below. Vanderhall has been known for their stylish three-wheeled vehicles, so the Navarro is quite the departure from what we've seen. As far as electric powertrains go, Vanderhall has used this setup before with their Edison². Details are still unknown regarding the Vanderhall Navarro, but we will keep you updated as soon as we learn more about this exciting new electric SUV. Visit VanderhallUSA.com " width="680">

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By Jordan Aquistapace – September 15, 2020

Bugatti Celebrates 30 Year Anniversary At The Blue Factory

The name Bugatti holds a special place in the automotive world. Responsible for creating some of the most powerful production vehicles on the planet, the French manufacturer prides itself on pushing the limits. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Bugatti’s Fabbrica Blu (Blue Factory) located in Campogalliano, Italy. It’s not the original factory that produced the 77 prewar vehicles, but instead was home to the Bugatti EB110. A celebration took place at the 240,000 square meter factory using proper health guidelines, where past and present Bugatti models lined the entrance. The building is painted in Bugatti Blue and presents the notorious emblem proudly throughout the facility. It is home-base for Bugatti’s 200 employees that have worked to produce the EB110, Veyron, and Chiron. One of the special guests in attendance was Romano Artioli, the man responsible for the creation of the blue factory and continuing Ettore Bugatti’s vision. The company has released that a 110-year tribute Bugatti will be made, named the Centodieci, which translates to 110 in Italian. The hypercar will be constructed as a modern take on the EB110, using its flat and wedge-shaped features. Bugatti has set to release only ten examples of the Centodieci next year, to which all have sold for the price of 8 million euros. Bugatti is a true pioneer in the automotive industry, pushing the limits of both styling and horsepower with no intention of letting off. View all currently listed Bugattis for sale by clicking the link below. See All Bugattis For Sale

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 10, 2020

Virgil Abloh Gifts Gorden Wagener An Unreleased Pair of M...

Mercedes-Benz Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener is the man behind the collaboration with the German automobile manufacturer and Virgil Abloh. The friendship has grown during the time spent with each other on the most recent Project Geländewagen. One that has resulted in congratulatory gifts, that behind a custom set of Mercedes-Benz driving gloves designed by the head creator of Louis Vuitton. Them gloves are an unreleased product that has been appearing on Instagram pages through acquaintances of Virgil, one other being American model ASAP Nast. It goes to show that Virgil Abloh thinks outside the box when working on collaboration projects in the most meticulous ways. We will be keeping a close eye to find out whose hands the other 20 pairs made it to. https://www.instagram.com/p/CE9nOpZpx-J/ Source: Gorden Wagener

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 10, 2020

Elon Musk's "Cybertruck" Recreated By Bosnian Company

A YouTube video surfaced featuring what is thought to be the first released Tesla Cybertruck. A closer look will show that a Bosnian company decided not to wait for the anticipated 2021 release and instead recreate one themselves. Mario Coric and Milia Maric are the engineers behind the rendition of Elon Musk’s current project at Tesla. The platform uses a Ford truck with a traditional gasoline engine. The idea behind the build not to be an identical replica but instead portray the look of the Tesla Cybertruck. From a distance, it has even led some to think that the Cybertruck is being assembled in Bosnia. It’s not the real thing but is getting everyone excited for Tesla to release the newest addition to the lineup. " width="680">

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By Jordan Aquistapace – September 09, 2020

The 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant "RS Tribute Edition"

The Audi RS Avant will be touching U.S. tarmac for 2021 in the form of a special edition RS 6 model. The Audi RS 6 Avant RS Tribute Edition will pay homage to the 25th anniversary of the original RS 2 Avant that rocked the automotive world in the early 1990s. The release will be limited to 25 chassis for the true Audi enthusiasts, each designed to mirror the visual aspects that made us fall in love with the RS 2. The RS Tribute Edition will be presented in Nogaro Blue Pearl with a black shadow line trim seen from the top roof rails to the bottom diffuser and everywhere in-between. Separating the RS 6 Avant from the road are silver 22-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels paired with bright red-painted brake calipers. Grip and braking are essential to control the performance from the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 capable of 591 horsepower. The Audi Valcona S Sport seats feature carbon twill balanced with classic denim blue contrast stitching to reimagine the past and present of Audi interiors. The iconic RS logo is throughout the interior, including the sport seats, steering wheel, and floor-mats. The Audi RS 6 RS Tribute Edition comes standard with the driver assistance and executive packages. The newest release from Audi is currently available with an MSRP of $136,800. For more information on the 2021 Audi RS 6 RS Tribute Edition, click the link below. Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – September 09, 2020

How To Watch The Maserati MC20 Unveiling

Today at 2:30 (Eastern), Maserati will show us "The Way Forward". Originally planned for May, the virus forced them to push back the launch date. Defined by the Roman Numerals for this model year, MMXX will offer the latest in hypercar technology. If you want to see it before your friends, here is how to watch the Maserati MC20 unveiling. Although we can't verify the details until later today, rumors of a mid-mounted V6 seem plausible. 2021 Maserati MC20 For Sale @AutomotivPress mentions it could be a 90-degree V6 rated at 630 horsepower and 539 lb-ft of torque. Because firing a V6 at 90-degrees is inherently unbalanced, I venture to guess this engine has unprecedented internals. As the successor to the MC12, it will be a flagship for the brand and a shining beacon of hope amid the "New Normal". Click the button below to watch the countdown clock, and it will lead into the unveiling this afternoon. Stay with us for all your Maserati news. Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – September 08, 2020

Bentley Mulliner is Building a Trifecta For Salon Privé

Remember, remember the 22nd of September to see what Bentley hath wrought. While the Gunpowder Treason was foiled, nothing can stop Bentley's Mulliner division from building a trifecta for Salon Privé. One of the most exclusive car shows in the world, it will be the backdrop for the public debut for the 2021 Bentley Bacalar. Design Your own Bentley Bacalar The lawn at Blenheim Palace will also see a fully-restored 4 1/2-liter Supercharged Team Blower car to make a grand entrance. The 3rd car is a mystery. Their press relese says it is a new member of the Mulliner Collections family. Last year, they shocked the world by announcing a dozen new 1929 Blower Bentleys will be offered, making them the first pre-war continuations by any manufacturer. While it is the work of Mulliner Classic, Mulliner Coachbuilt will be represented by the Bacalar, Mulliner's first production car in decades. The 3rd division is "Bentley Mulliner Collections". They will continue to offer customized versions of new production Bentleys, built to your specification. That team has built a new 2021 Continental GT Convertible with every possible customization. To outline the significance of the moment, the weekend of September 22nd will be the first time all three Mulliner Portfolios will be seen simultaneously. Needless to say, we will cover this event for you, so click the button below to learn more about Mulliner from our dealers and stay with us for all your Bentley news. Browse Bentley For Sale

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