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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 – January 05, 2017

Un-Camouflaged 2017 Ford GT Spotted, Sounds "Interesting"

Now that the first 2017 Ford GT has rolled off of the production line, we will start seeing more and more of these American supercars on the road. In fact, one Redditor, u/Emulsifide, has spotted a GT without camouflage on the roads of Detroit. He notes that he's seen plenty under camo, but this was his first time seeing one without a veil on the road.What's more, when asked about the sounds of the car, he had an interesting response: It's interesting sounding. The guy was just cruising along, so it wasn't loud, but from what I was able to hear for the 10 seconds I saw it, it did sound like a more subdued version of what they've been running in Le Mans this year. Very tasteful, but not what you'd expect when you think Ford. Definitely the sound you'd expect when you think hypercar in general though. That's interesting insight into the sound of the car, remarking that it does sound like a hypercar. The sound that he was hearing was coming from a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine that's capable of producing over 600 hp. And, if you've heard the Le Mans version of the car, you know just how brutal it can sound.The new 2017 Ford GTs will start being delivered soon to those who were approved.All Ford GT For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 15, 2016

John Hennessey Discover's the 2017 Ford Raptor's 0-60 Time

After a few delays to validate the quality of their latest build, Ford's Special Vehicles Team has delivered the new F150 Raptor. Zerin Dube from SpeedSportLife.com borrowed the truck from Ford's Press Fleet and drove it directly to Hennessey Performance to see how it compares to the previous bird of prey. John wasted no time in establishing a baseline for future tuning. The first video was a test of the powertrain on HPE's chassis dyno. A pair of EcoBoost turbos on the 3.5-liter V6 produce 365 hp and 422 lb-ft of torque. The latter appears gradually and peaks at a usable 3,700 rpm. It's easy to see that boost is carefully controlled by the computer to save fuel and wear on the 10-speed automatic transmission. Developed in a partnership with General Motors, they both have a lot riding on the new gearbox.For video 2.0, it was time for a quarter mile test. At Hennessey's adjacent Lonestar Motorsports Park, the Raptor was outfitted with telemetry and cameras to record the runs. BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires are not exactly designed for drags, but the tall sidewalls have enough flex for grip out of the hole. With a unique exhaust soundtrack, 60 mph arrives in 5.3 seconds and it goes across the finish line quicker than you might have guessed. Undoubtedly his team is already at work dissecting the data and developing a new tune. More boost and more fuel are the basic ingredients, but we hope to see bigger cams and maybe some Nitrous Oxide for the brave. As soon as pricing is released on the HPE Raptor you will see it here first. To learn what Hennessey Performance can do for you, please click on the link below.Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – December 13, 2016

Outlaw FM700 by Ford of Murfreesboro

Ford fans have a brutal new F150 in the latest Raptor, but sport truck enthusiasts were sad to learn that Lightning only struck twice. The Ford Lightning was a regular cab short bed F150 with a monster V8. The first generation was built in 1993 to 95 as a response to Chevrolet's 454 Super Sport Silverado, and it was powered by a police-spec 351 Windsor small block. But because of Ford's over engineering, many were daily driven, so finding a preserved example is becoming increasingly hard. Lightning's 2nd and final generation debuted in 1999 with a supercharged 5.4 liter V8 that would later be used in the Ford GT.Reminiscing back to my college days, the Lightning was one of the fastest production vehicles on the market. The best part is, Lighting owners always want to race. But I learned my lesson the hard way. Once your friends hear that you were shamed by an F150, your social life evaporates. I still flinch at the sound of supercharger whine, but therapy has helped. Let's break it down by the numbers. The final production year was 2004 and the Lightning made 380 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. Everyone who has seen them in action knows the true output is considerably higher, but insurance companies and bean counters would have "outlawed" such a fast truck. Any Ford dealer will be happy to sell you a new truck with 3.5-liter twin turbo, and it does make 470 lb-ft of torque along with 375 hp. Yes, it shares many parts with the Raptor and Ford GT engines, but many people simply do not like six cylinder engines.The formula for building a fast Ford has been perfected only a few minutes from Nashville. Take a V8 powered short bed regular cab and install the largest supecharger available. Then drop it 3" front and 6" on the rear. Add Borla exhaust and a K&N intake and you have a 700 hp monster. I was able to get behind the wheel at the Nashville auto show, and it feels like a 10-second truck. The master technicians in their service department have engineered a proprietary fuel tune in order to build boost safely, so the Outlaw is backed by a full warranty. Each Outlaw is built to order, so please contact Special Vehicles Manager Ryan Greatrex for more information (877)-736-1408. View Inventory

By Andrew Nabors – December 09, 2016

Ford Unveils Race-Ready Shelby FP350S Mustang

On any given weekend, you will find many flavors of Mustang competing at track days. You can't deny that the Shelby GT350 is a potent machine, but Ford fans might be reluctant to modify such a new car in order to be certified to race. Keeping a watchful eye on motorsports, Ford Performance has released a new model that arrives ready for record times and race tracks.The Shelby FP350S is aimed at SCCA and Trans Am series racers who might be scared away from the flat-plane crankshaft of the GT350. Under the hood is a version of the 5.2 liter Aluminator crate engine which uses a traditional firing order and four valves per cylinder. Other goodies include an oil cooler and Motec data recorder.(Related - Custom SEMA Ford Mustangs Unveiled Ahead of Event)Each body panel is continuously welded instead of the spot welds found on production Mustangs. This makes the body much stronger and able to cope with the stress of racing. An FIA legal six-point roll cage is also included as standard equipment. The only transmission offered is a Tremec six-speed manual which has an internal oil pump and cooling system. The press release did not mention any suspension upgrades other than a 3.73 differential.For more information, contact Ford of Murfreesboro in the link below.Learn More

By Edward Jones – November 07, 2016

The 2017 Ford F150 Raptor is quickly becoming one of the automaker's most popular trucks, thanks in part to a successful product launch on Ford.com and at their dealerships. According to a press release issued today, the American automaker noted that they've had more than 90,000 hits in their Raptor build and price site within the first 10 days of launch.(Related - Hennessey Reveals Velociraptor 6x6 and It's an American Monster)In the press release, Ford details some of the most popular packages and other interested factoids regarding the truck. 91% of orders are for the SuperCrew 90% of orders include the luxury group package 77% of orders include the technology package The largest markets include Texas, California and Florida Shadow Black is the most common paint color “This is one of the fastest and most popular product launches we’ve seen in some time,” says said Rob Rosenbach, Ford F-150 brand manager. “Traffic volume on the Raptor pages is more than five times our other performance vehicle lines, with dealer demand far ahead of expectations. This demonstrates the Ford Performance team hit its mark with the new F-150 Raptor.”To get your own F-150 Raptor, be sure to check out our listings by clicking the button below.All Ford Raptor For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – November 02, 2016

Ford Releases Performance App and Mustang GT4 at SEMA

Keeping track of your lap times can be a hassle at track days. If the idea of a trustworthy friend and a stopwatch seems too old fashioned, there is Ford's new Performance App. It uses the SYNC system to import video and engine data and creates a file that can be shared on social media or with your defense attorney. Only the new Ford GT will have this ability at first, but the press release hints that it will migrate to other models early next year.(Sports Cars For Sale) If your track day machine has seen better days, Ford is also releasing a new Mustang GT4. In full compliance with FIA regulations, this turn-key race car uses the wild 5.2 liter V8 from the GT350. Instead of a six-speed manual, the GT4 arrives with a Holinger six-speed sequential transmission. Paddle shifters are never as much fun, but it will keep your focus on overtaking the competition. Chassis tuning was done by Multimatic Motorsports, the same engineers who took the Ford GT from concept to reality.To put the power to the track, Forgeline rear wheels measure in at 18" x 11". The car is based on the Shelby GT350R-C, which took the win for this season's IMSA SportsCar Challenge series. Any factory built Mustang that arrives with a roll cage invites comparison to the legendary Boss 302, and shifting at 9,000 rpm will keep you in 1st place. Stay with us for complete coverage of this year's SEMA show.All Mustang For Sale

By Edward Jones – October 31, 2016

Custom SEMA Ford Mustangs Unveiled Ahead of Event

Ford has always brought their A-game to SEMA and this year they're doing it yet again with their Mustang, F-150 and various other models. Recently, the American automaker revealed their list of Mustangs that will be making appearances at the show.(Related - Ford Introduces Four Extreme Trucks for SEMA 2016)In the press release for these models, they had this to say about the collection of ponies: "A trifecta of power, precision and performance is displayed in the distinct vision for each car, while the promise of heart-pounding excitement lurks under the hood."Check out the overview video below to get an idea of what's coming to SEMA and scroll even further to see what Ford had to see about each individual car.Ford Mustang For SaleHonoring Americans Heroes "This 2017 Mustang GT concept is an enthusiast’s dream. It uses a cutting-edge VMP Performance Gen II-R 2.3-liter TVS supercharger and custom calibration technologies to deliver an aggressive 851 horsepower. The combination of strength and nearly sinister beauty is a salute to America’s heroes who protect our great nation. From its jet fighter gray fuselage and aerodynamic cues to “landing gear” designed to pull g-force at every turn, Track Attack is the answer to childhood fantasies of fast cars and jet planes, all rolled into one amazing street and track arsenal."Sweet as Sugar: Pearl Candy Orange Mustang "This Pearl Candy Orange 2017 Mustang concept will set enthusiast hearts ablaze with a combination of great handling and performance, along with an exotic look and feel that infuse the drop-top with personality and flare. No masterpiece would be complete without a signature feature, and the custom interior coupled with the Ford Licensed Accessories lighted pony grille leaves an unforgettable impression."Supercharged Superpony "Technology and refinement distinguish this Mustang GT concept as a fast and powerful supercar. Advanced composites help reduce weight, yet speed increases thanks to a 5.0-liter V8 engine with Whipple Stage2 supercharger boasting 825 horsepower. With seamless flow between interior and exterior lines, the refabricated auto-claved carbon fiber body kit and race-inspired interior translate into excitement. Enhanced handling from an Eibach Pro-Street coilover kit with stopping power from premium carbon ceramic brakes make this much more than just another muscle car. "Black and Red Beauty "With its 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine coupled with Vortech supercharger, this black and red beauty enhances the legendary Mustang DNA for the ultimate concept in sport touring. The focus of this MRT creation is on full car balance, commanding authority and firing up adrenaline with no apologies. The car’s styling, color scheme, carbon trim and HB Engineering-finished wheels will stop you in your tracks. "Stealth and Acid "This 2017 Mustang concept combines the potent EcoBoost platform with a full array of Ford Performance parts for a knock-out package of style and substance. Beautiful Stealth Gray paint with Acid Green accents make this car a standout. With gains throughout the powerband of up to 100 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a full assortment of Ford Performance parts, this pony car is a class of one. "Recreating History "Re-creating the excitement of the iconic 1966 Shelby GT350, this officially licensed reproduction concept by Revology Cars captures the style and character of the original. Modern technology including Dakota Digital electronic gauge cluster with LED lighting and LCD message center, navigation, Bluetooth and voice recognition all make this classic a force to be reckoned with. With a new chassis, brakes and a better power-to-weight ratio than a Ferrari 360 Modena, it’s a thrill to drive. "

By Edward Jones – October 06, 2016

Ford Introduces Four Extreme Trucks for SEMA 2016

Every year Ford brings a party to SEMA in the form of trucks and this year looks to be like they're throwing it down yet again. For SEMA 2016, Ford will be bringing four trucks: the EraThr3 F-150 by Hulst Customs, Bojix Design F-150 SuperCrew, Gold Standard F-150 Project Truck and the BMX-themed F-150 Lariat SuperCrew. Below are brief descriptions on each from Ford's website.Ford has won multiple "Hottest Truck" awards at the show. Do you think Ford will win that award this year with these trucks? Let me know what you think in the comments below.View All F-150 For SaleEraThr3 F-150 by Hulst Customs "The EraThr3 F-150 by Hulst Customs is not for the faint of heart. This independent, free spirited, trail blazer turns heads and makes hearts pound with a powerful stance. Boasting a Whipple supercharger capable of boosting the Ford 5.0L V8 to 750HP and a custom made 4-link rear suspension, this truck is ready to rumble."BMX-themed F-150 Lariat SuperCrew "This BMX-themed extreme F-150 lives up to the fast paced sport by offering the strength, speed and handling that can tackle any obstacle – on or off road. Equally amped for drivers and riders alike, the Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew is equipped with action sports accessories and gear including Ssquared Bicycles bike frames, Answer BMX bicycle parts, and GoPro action cameras that can capture all the finish-line action."Gold Standard F-150 Project Truck "The 2016 Gold Standard Ford F-150 Project Truck built by A.R.E. Accessories brings great products from across the industry together on one build. The custom paint job reflects a rich brilliance while the A.R.E. CX Series cap with the TopperEZLift system protects technology like TV’s, a storage system and charging station located in the bed of the truck. This truck is built up from bumper to bumper to show off medal-worthy products on the gold standard truck – the 2016 Ford F-150. "Bojix Design F-150 SuperCrew "This F-150 SuperCrew is more than ready to take on the most severe off-road duties and look good while doing it. Sleek Nardo Grey paint with Bojix Orange accents are illuminated by 30”, 40” & 50” Radius light bars. Equipped with a Full Race intake system and twin Borg Warner EFR turbo upgrades on the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, this truck has outstanding power and a quick response to tackle every type of terrain with agility and authority."

By Edward Jones – October 05, 2016

Hennessey Reveals Velociraptor 6x6 and It's an American M...

Hennessey has just taken the Raptor to a whole new level by adding new axles, additional wheels and a whole lot more. Introducing the Hennessey VelociRaptor 6x6.“Our VelociRaptor 6X6 is pure aggression on wheels – all six of them”, said Hennessey on their website. “The new 2017 Raptor is going to be one of the best all-around trucks ever built. We are excited to help take it to the next level both in terms of performance and exclusivity.”The full list of upgrades made to the F-150 to turn it into the VelociRaptor 6x6 include: 6x6 locking rear axles Fox suspension 20-inch wheels Off-road tires Custom bumpers Rollbar LED Lights One addition that can be made on the customer's own accord is the VelociRaptor 600 twin-turbo upgrade, which will take the truck's power over 600 hp, as well as add stainless steel exhaust, upgraded intercooler and plumbing, and a retuned ECU. Other options available are Brembo brakes, wheels, tires, LED lighting, interior options, electronic upgrades and armoring. Yes, you can armor your 6x6 Raptor.As far as pricing goes, Hennessey will turn a 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor into a VelociRaptor 6x6 for $295,000 (that price includes the base model Raptor 4-door truck). For the twin-turbo VelociRaptor 600 upgraded, that'll cost $22,500. If you're interested, the truck can be ordered through Hennessey Performance or through select Hennessey/Ford dealers.View All Hennessey For Sale

By Edward Jones – October 03, 2016

The Ford Bronco Is Officially Returning, Will Be Made In ...

The Ford Bronco is returning. I'm not sure if it was a mistake, a slip of the tongue, but it looks like the Bronco will be resurrected.This news comes from an interview between Bill Johnson, plant chairman for UAW Local 900, which represents the Ford Wayne plant, and Detroit Free Press. In the interview, which focuses on Trump's talking point of Ford creating a plant in Mexico, Johnson mentions ever so subtly that the Bronco is coming back.“We hate to see the products go to Mexico, but with the Ranger and the Bronco coming to Michigan Assembly that absolutely secures the future for our people a lot more than the Focus does,” Johnson said.With these words, Bronco fans around the world rejoiced. Including me.The previous glimmer of hope we had for the return of the Bronco was back in February when we were presented with 2020 concept renderings. These were created by Bronco6G.com. These renderings are included in this article.While this brief mention of the Bronco's return is enough to jump up and down about, we will still have to wait for the official press release from Ford Motor Company. And as soon as we get that, I'll be sharing it with you here on Autofluence.View All Ford Bronco For Sale

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