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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 – April 22, 2020

Meguiar's Coloring Book Includes Famous Designers

When Barry Meguiar offers words of inspiration, everyone listens. Since he has a lifetime of experience around the world's most gorgeous automobiles, Meguiar's Coloring Book includes famous designers. From a teaser on their Instagram page, we learned this book includes fan favorites by " @guntherwerks Remastered 911, @streethunterdesigns A90 Supra by @tjhunt_ , and the @vorsteiner Lamborghini Huracan Evo. Although the main feature is Meguiar's 2020 Big Rig. Although it should be black, now is the time to use your imagination. Perhaps they will pick your design and share it for all the world to see. Click the link below to download it, and stay with us for all your Meguiar's updates. Download Meguiar's Coloring Book

By Andrew Nabors – April 22, 2020

First Cessna Citation Latitude Delivered in Japan

Courtesy of Textron Aviation, Japan has received new testing gear for their ILS (Instrument Landing) equipment. The Japanese Air Self Defense Force is tasked with protecting domestic and military flight for the nation. This means being able to land and takeoff in any situation. To ensure the system works under the most adverse conditions, the first Cessna Citation Latitude was delivered in Japan. Top 50 Best Sports Cars Of All Time The talented team in Wichita has built a wonder of modern aviation. With a range of 3,107 miles, it can cruise across continents with ease. Another shocker is a takeoff length of only 3,580 feet. In comparison, the runways at Orlando International Airport are 10,000 feet long. The cabin has a flat floor with six feet of height, making it capable of almost any cargo or transport situation. Engine power will vary by customer, with special operations and "agencies" having extra notches on the throttle. Deep six your G6 and click the link below to learn more. Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – April 22, 2020

How Bugatti's Design Director Works From Home

Achim Anscheidt is a Berliner who commutes to work on Germany's high-speed ICE train. With service suspended until the virus subsides, here is how Bugatti's Design Director works from home. He has overseen every model since 2004, so it is his job to keep Bugatti at the cutting edge while remembering their heritage. In between conference calls he has carved a niche into the attic of his antique home. “For me, this is both a retreat and a source of inspiration. I can try out new lines here, think about new themes and develop fresh ideas. The studio in the attic is warm and suffused with light. I feel comfortable there and can handle current challenges like social distancing and Skype for Business". Top 50 Sports Cars Of All Time In as much as possible, his latest inspirations come from a close-knit group of friends. His circle includes artists, musicians, writers, and freelancers. He also owns a cabin in the Alps when he really needs to practice social distancing. “Although it gets quite cool here at times in April, I do enjoy the evenings up here". In the garage is a restored classic Porsche 911, but the real treat is in the basement. His current project is an original Bugatti Type 35 that inspires his love for the brand. Although he needs a few more pieces, the world will have to wait until it is on the road again. Browse Bugatti For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 22, 2020

Dealer Details: Lamborghini Dallas

As the architect of the largest dealership of its kind in the United States, Lamborghini Dallas is bullish on Lamborghini and its storied pedigree. This high- performance dealership was the first for Lamborghini in Texas when it was established in 2003, and only the second Lamborghini-only dealership in the U.S. after Beverly Hills. Founded by tractor manufacturing magnate Ferruccio Lamborghini in 1963, Lamborghini embodies the virility of unbridled performance tempered by refined artistry. Lamborghini took inspiration from the creations of Enzo Ferrari and was obsessed with crafting the perfect grand touring car, one that tempered Ferrari's racing-inspired road manners. In 1966 Lamborghini introduced the legendary Miura sports coupe, a car that established mid-engine design as the standard for high-performance sports cars. Over the ensuing decades, Lamborghini pioneered rakish, wedge-shaped sports car designs typified by the Countach (1974-1990) and the Diablo, the flagship Lamborghini through the 1990s. And such beauty wasn't only skin-deep. The Diablo was the world's fastest production car when it was introduced in 1990 Smitten by the power and majesty of fighting bulls, Ferruccio Lamborghini adopted a raging bull as the emblem for his automobiles. The Miura sports coupe was named for Don Eduardo Miura, a famed breeder of Spanish fighting bulls. The Diablo and the Murcielago were named for legendary bulls while the Gallardo, Spanish for "gallant," took its name from a celebrated breed of fighting bull. Boardwalk added Lamborghini Dallas to its auto group portfolio in 2006, relocating the dealership to its spacious Richardson facility in 2010. With a state-of-the-art Lamborghini showroom, factory-certified service facility and parts depot, and Lamborghini accessories boutique, Lamborghini Dallas is dedicated to the performance legacy of the famed raging bull. Browse Inventory Contact Lamborghini Dallas Website: https://www.lamborghinidallas.com/Phone: 866-205-9328Address: 601 S. Central Expressway Richardson, TX 75080

By Andrew Nabors – April 21, 2020

Airstream Unveils All-New 2020 Atlas

When Mercedes-Benz announced a completely new Sprinter lineup, our friends at Airstream wasted no time adapting their popular Interstate models to the new chassis. For those that need more room and capability, the Atlas has been their largest model since 2017. Once the chassis-cab is delivered from the factory, Airstream builds everything from the cockpit rearward. Riding on the Sprinter 3500 chassis, it has a dually rear end to easily haul a family along with a trailer rating of 5,000 lbs. A slide-out behind the driver's seat allows it to offer unprecedented floor space and all the amenities of home: Hideaway Samsung Flat Screen Powered Awning Tankless Water Heater Wi-Fi Onan 3.2kw Generator Backup Camera Powered Steps Side View Camera Lane Keeping Assist Collision Avoidance With Automatic Braking Air-Ride Suspension Stability Control 23 Gallons (Fresh) 31 Gallons (Gray) 23 Gallons (Black) 15,000 BTU A/C 16,000 BTU Furnace 50 amp Multi-stage Charger 1,000 Watt Pure Sine Inverter 30-Amp 110v Shore Power 300 Watt Solar Panel Roof There is not another Class B Motorhome comparable to the 2020 Airstream Atlas. Click the button to learn more and stay with us for all your Airstream updates. Learn More " width="680">

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By Andrew Nabors – April 20, 2020

City of Tampa Proclaims "Ferman Motorcar Company Day"

Fred Ferman became Tampa's first car dealer in 1895. The economy was based on being Florida's gateway to Central and South America, so there were wealthy people who could afford such luxuries as an automobile. Once the Orange Belt Railroad arrived, Mr. Ferman founded an automotive empire that has served Tampa for 125 years. That is why Mayor Castor has proclaimed April 20th to be "Ferman Motorcar Company Day". The 7th-oldest dealer in the U.S. now has a dozen locations around the bay area. Their commitment to philanthropy and local events is next to none, so we are proud to represent the Ferman Motorcar Company for years. Congratulations to our hometown heroes, and here's to another 125 years! Browse Ferman BMW

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By Andrew Nabors – April 20, 2020

Introducing Holman Motorcars St. Louis

As the Gateway to the West, whoever controls St. Louis will also control a captive audience across our nation's heartland. That's why St. Louis Motorcars has been a fixture in our magazine since their inception 18 years ago. With nearly 2 decades of award-winning sales, we are happy to announce the acquisition of St. Louis Motorcars by Holman Automotive. As one of the largest privately-owned dealer groups in the US, allow us to introduce Holman Motorcars St. Louis. A press release from the Holman Group outlines the following: Brian Bates is the President and CEO of Holman Consumer Services, and he had this to say: "St. Louis Motorcars is widely regarded as one of the top destinations in the country for premium automobiles with a remarkable track record of delivering a curated experience that is truly worthy of these world-class luxury brands." "As our Holman Automotive family of dealerships continues to evolve, we remain focused on further diversifying our brand portfolio, strategically expanding our geographic footprint and fostering an exceptional customer experience representative of our long-standing Holman values; and St. Louis Motorcars certainly checks all those boxes." The gorgeous facility at One Arnage Boulevard will be the basis for something awe-inspiring. While the current 50,000 square-foot building will remain, the have big plans to allow each brand room to express themselves individually. This is of utmost importance since they currently house Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Bugatti, and Lotus at the same address. Their motivation comes from their flagship store in Fort Lauderdale. It is there you will find Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce, and Bentley with enough social distancing to prevent cross-shopping. St. Louis Motorcars' previous owner, Graham Hill began his high-line, specialty vehicle sales career 30+ years ago with Holman Lauderdale Imports, before opening his St. Louis operation in 2002. Hill now manages Holman's Ultra-Luxury division as Vice President of Sales. Holman Automotive opened in 1924 as a Ford dealer in Merchantville, NJ. Today they control 36 dealerships and many other automotive-related companies in the U.S., Canada, and around the globe. If you have bought or sold with St.Louis Motorcars, you will be in awe of the new opportunities Holman Automotive will offer to you. Click the button below to browse their inventory and stay with us for more exciting news from Holman Motorcars St. Louis & Holman Motorcars Fort Lauderdale. Browse Inventory Contact Holman Motorcars St. Louis Website: https://www.stl.cars/Phone: 855-971-4092Address: One Arnage Drive, St. Louis, MO 63005

By Andrew Nabors – April 17, 2020

Gulfstream Goes Full Throttle to Fight the Virus

Flying commercial is not a wise move until the infection rate drops. Private flying is a much safer option for those with the means to do so, and is it is much more comfortable. One of the ways Gulfstream sets itself apart from most other aircraft is that they have much more precise cabin pressurization. Your ears don't pop and you can taste food like you are at ground level. Using their expertise in climate control and manufacturing, Gulfstream has gone full throttle to fight the virus. Using their expertise in cabin pressurization, they have mobilized several teams to build mask adapters. These will be used to convert CPAP machines and respirators into much-needed ventilators. Also, their 3D printers are running around the clock to supply tension-release bands for surgical masks. Click the button below to find out why Gulfstream soars above their competitors and stay with us for a thorough review of the new G700. Learn More

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By Jordan Aquistapace – April 17, 2020

Porsche Announces Virtual Live event featuring The Porsch...

It seems that live stories on social media platforms with featured guests have been trending during our time spent at home, keeping us up to date and entertained. Porsche’s Instagram media page (@Porsche_newsroom) has been spoiling the platform with incredible images and video post, but they have announced a live video session on the Porsche Taycan Turbo S and the 992 911 Turbo S. TV host Matthias Malmedie and test driver Lars Kern will be testing the incredible limits of both models for the public to view. The event can be viewed from the Porsche Facebook page on April 18th at 11am EST. Click Below for more information on the live event, as well as all news from Porsche!

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By Alyssa Mammano – April 15, 2020

$70 Million worth of Luxury Mansions Coming to Auction

More than $70 million worth of mansions around the globe will come to auction during the months of April and May, offered by luxury real estate auction company, Concierge Auctions. The vast majority of the properties will be auctioned off with no reserve and will be awarded to the highest bidders. Auctions will be held virtually on ConciergeAuctions.com, where potential buyers may bid from anywhere in the world. Properties include domestic offerings, as well as homes located in Spain and Antigua. Additional listings with auction dates to be announced are located in Italy, France and the United States. Another parcel accepting offers is located in Thailand. 715 North Alpine Drive, Beverly Hills, California Available at Online Auction April 15–17 Previously offered for $20.5 million, this custom home is located in the exclusive Beverly Hills Flats. The estate was meticulously crafted with materials curated from around the world and is surrounded by lush, mature landscaping to create a private oasis. Spanning more than 10,000 square feet, the Mediterranean villa features Venetian hand-plastered walls, wrought-iron balconies, hand-stenciled ceilings, custom built-ins and rich hardwood floors. Amenities include a library, 5,500-bottle wine room, swimming pool and children's splash pool, outdoor kitchen with custom Italian pizza oven and a separate guest house. View Property 201 Dunbar Road, Palm Beach, FloridaAvailable at Online Auction April 21–24 Enter this stunning 7,800-square-foot estate to a grand two-story foyer with crisp white walls and black and white checkered marble flooring. The sun-drenched home boasts a clean, white design throughout with arched French doors allowing loads of natural light to stream in. An all-white kitchen showcases jaw-dropping quartz countertops with gray veining and an expansive center island. The master suite is a retreat with his and hers spa ensuites and dressing rooms. A private balcony overlooks the modern rectangular pool in the backyard. Indoor/outdoor living is exquisite at this modernized Mediterranean home, formerly listed for $13.75 million. View Property Villa Monterey, Sotogrande, Cádiz, SpainAvailable at Online Auction April 28–30 A resort-style experience is on offer at La Reserva de Sotogrande villa. This 1,055-square-meter estate houses six bedrooms and six ensuite bathrooms boasting a gleaming white stucco Spanish design. Perched on a flat parcel surrounded by lush greenery and set against a clear blue sky, views of the ocean can be seen in the distance. Walls of glass allow a view of the Rock of Gibraltar from the well-appointed kitchen. Entertaining transcends the indoors through to outdoor lounge areas, a terrace and an expansive second-floor balcony. This breathtaking Spanish home was once offered for €3.9 million ($4.26 million USD). View Property Through Concierge Auction's Key for Key® effort in partnership with Giveback Homes, every property sold at auction will result in a new home built for a family in need. Photography via Concierge Auctions

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