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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 – July 20, 2016

New McLaren F1 Successor Planned For 2018 Debut

When McLaren returned to building street legal cars in 2011, the question on everyone's mind is how the F1 would be surpassed. Arguably the best car ever built, it was powered by a naturally aspirated V12 and featured a unique three-seat cockpit. In a shocking revelation, Autocar is reporting that some of the best features of the F1 are being brought into the 21st century for a new hyper-GT car. For outright performance, the P1 will remain on top, and this new model will emphasize comfort and heritage.Yes, that's right, the McLaren F1 may be coming back to life.(Related Read - McLaren 650S: Top 5 Driving Features) It will be styled to showcase the abilities of McLaren Special Operations, with the aim of being the perfect GT car for long distance trips. Extensive changes to their carbon fiber mono cell are being made to accommodate the three seat layout, and engineers have been asked to "shrink wrap" the composite body over the chassis. Not only will this provide more interior room than their previous builds, it will clearly show how much time was spent in development. Power is speculated to be north of 700 hp, probably from their twin turbo 3.8L V8. The complex hybrid drive of the P1 will not be used, as it's probably being refined for their next hypercar.Again this information is from an Autocar source and is not official. Since this car is still on the drawing board stay with us for updates on the world's fastest 3-seater.View McLarens For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – July 19, 2016

Lamborghini Centenario Hot Laps at the Nardo Ring

Sprechen sie Deutsch? Our German speaking fans have always asked why we don't publish more content in their native tongue, so here we go. As a celebration of Mr. Lamborghini's 100th birthday, the Centenario LP 770-4 is based on the Aventador, and it might be a foreshadowing of their next flagship. Auto Bild is celebrating their 30th Anniversary as Germany's authority on everything automotive, so the decided to test the new Lamborghini in Italy at the famous Nardo Ring.(Also Check Out - Lamborghini Centenario On The Road For The First Time)I wish we could offer more in terms of a translation, but the performance speaks for itself. Power is rated by Lamborghini at 770 ps or metric horsepower, which is equivalent to 759 hp when converted to SAE. Only 20 coupes and 20 roadsters will be produced, and they have all been spoken for. Stay tuned to Autofluence, because we hope to find the opposite video next week. Who wants to see an Italian driver flogging the latest Huracan at Nürburgring?View Lamborghinis For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – July 18, 2016

Final Production US Spec LaFerrari

If you happened to be in Lexington, Kentucky over the weekend, you might have seen the last LaFerrari built for the US. Only 499 cars were produced, so we're glad a few of them made it here. One discerning collector has a passion for yellow, so this car is probably the only example in this color combination. A two-tone yellow and red interior along with signatures from the assembly line workers are just a few of the unique features. The LaFerrari is the culmination of years of development in Formula1 racing. Combining a 6.3L V12 with a hybrid electric drive, it produces 963 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. (View Complete Laferrari Specs Here) Our friend Tanner Mashburn, of Music City Motor Cars, has a keen eye for rare exotics, and he was quick to realize the significance of this car. From the "Last Produced" emblem on the steering wheel to the Italian flag pinstripes on the nose, it is a stunning example of what Maranello is capable of. Each car sold for over a million dollars, and we would like to see what these options added to the window sticker. After winning an award for "Future Collectible", we probably won't see it in public for a while. Stay with us for more Ferrari news. LaFerrari For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – July 18, 2016

Ford Reveals Shelby GT350 Based on WWII Fighter Plane

If you have been to an Air Show in the past 20 years, you have seen "Ole Yeller". The beautiful yellow P51D Mustang was the inspiration for a new 2017 Shelby GT350, which will be auctioned to support Youth Education programs of the Experimental Aircraft Association. In a press release Friday night, Ford outlined the significance of the build. With parts donated by the biggest names in the aftermarket, it has more carbon fiber parts than any previous Mustang. Forgiato built a bespoke set of lightweight wheels on Pirelli tires, Focal supplied the audio system and Mustang tuner Carbon 2 Carbon offered the exterior accents.(Also Check Out - Hennessey Performance's 800 Horsepower 25th Anniversary Mustang) For the 9th year in a row, Ford has donated a Mustang in support of EAA's Young Eagles. Dedicated to empowering the next generation of aviators, the car will be the centerpiece of the EAA's Gathering of Eagles gala. Chris Magnum of MAD Industries performed the customization, including matching the historic P51's wild yellow paint. No changes to the powertrain were needed, as the 5.2L V8 is ready for the flight line. Making 526 hp and 429 lb-ft, the flat plane crank allows it to rev past 8,000 rpm. Ford was an early pioneer in the aviation industry with their rugged TriMotor, but we'll cover that another time. If you are a fan of anything that flies, head to Oshkosh, Wisconsin next week for the best air show in the world. The Gala will take place on the 28th, and for more info on how to become an EAA sponsor please visit http://www.fordairventure.com/ Mustangs For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – July 15, 2016

Mercedes Unveils Final Editions of CLS & CLS Shooting Brake

All good things must come to an end, and Mercedes is giving the CLS a Grand Finale. A press release last night outlines the details of the CLS Final Edition. We never understood why the Shooting Brake version was never sold in the US, but it will receive the same content. As Mr. Daimler was fond of saying: "The best or nothing", AMG was brought in to make sure this Final Edition will be the best CLS ever built.(Also Check Out - Rare Pagani Zonda Revolucion Racing and Pit Stops at Sebring)Most of the exterior is from the AMG CLS63, including the 19" multi-spoke wheels. All of the expensive optional content has been included. Final Editions will arrive with MULTIBEAM LED headlights, panoramic roof, sport steering wheel and dark tinted windows. The interior is black leather with contrast color stitching, and DINAMICA microfiber accents. Pricing for this package is listed at €8,211 or just over $9,100, and all exterior colors are available. Available for order in Europe, we hope they allow us to experience it also.CLS For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – July 15, 2016

Lamborghini Huracan Superleggera Spied At the Ring

Someone let an angry bull run wild at the Nürburgring and it looks ready for a fight. As the next evolution of the Huracan, the upcoming Superleggera (or super light) is on a diet for faster lap times. Caught in action by Automotive Mike, the fixed rear spoiler is a dead giveaway. While the driver is no Balboni, we can see the car being pushed to its limits on the old Nordschleife.(Also Watch - Ferrari 488 Challenge Car Spied On Track)For a brief history lesson, the Gallardo Superleggera went to extreme measures to lose 220 lbs. Mirrors, seats, and door panels were crafted of carbon fiber, and the stability system was relaxed for better track performance. Engineers went so far as to machine the wheel lugs from titanium instead of steel. What remains unclear is if this model will be offered in rear wheel drive only. The font axles and differential are very heavy, so we hope they are omitted for the production version. As soon as the car is finalized you will find it here, but in the meantime check out these listings from our dealers.Huracans For Sale

By Edward Jones – July 14, 2016

Lamborghini Ad Personam Studio Has Opened Up

Customizing your Lamborghini Huracan or Aventador is a special moment that allows you to create the supercar of your dreams. Before 2006, personalizing a Lamborghini was a bit more involved, but when the Ad Personam was introduced, things changed. This new program put created a team of specialists that would provide "a tailored consulting service that aids each customer in choosing colors, materials, trim and accessories, which meet the stylistic criteria of the Lamborghini marque and are consistent with its stringent quality and safety standards."Now, in 2016, Lamborghini has launched the Ad Personam Studio. At this studio, customers can will be aided by specialists at every step of the customization process. They will be able to see and feel the materials/colors that will make their Lamborghini their own work of art. This includes leathers, colors, materials, seats and rims. If you check out the images above, you can get a sense of just how in-depth the process really is.As of right now, the Ad Personam program is available for the Huracan and Aventador models.Lamborghinis For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – July 13, 2016

Wrecked Porsche 918 Spyder Up For Sale Again

If you are looking for a weekend project, have you considered a Porsche 918 Spyder? Our friends at Motor Authority stumbled across this listing from CrashedToys of Dallas, and you can't argue with the price. We first told you about this car back in March, figuring it would be quickly be snatched by the likes of Gas Monkey Garage. A true automotive tragedy is that it only has 92 miles on the odometer.A quick glance at the front end shows that both frame rails are bent. Not a problem for a skilled technician, aluminum can be straightened and welded. The problem lies in the amount of small parts that are damaged beyond repair. Taking this damage report to your local Porsche dealership, the service department would likely give you an estimate that surpasses the GDP of several third world countries. You will need new upper and lower control arms, shocks, the entire steering assembly, windows, hood, brakes, wheels, shocks, and a good coat of wax.Because the 918 is more complex than the Saturn V rocket, we choose to follow the approach of Apollo 13's damage control team. Let's look at what still works and go from there. Most of the damage is ahead of the firewall, so the electronics in the cockpit are still alive. Even if the front motor/generator was damaged you still have a low mileage twin turbo 4.6L V8 to play with. Last but not least the optional cup holder is ready to cruise. We like to think that no car is beyond repair but parting this car out might be a wiser decision. Stay with us, as we continue to follow the saga of car # 830. For more info on the auction, head over to Copart's page.

By Andrew Nabors – July 12, 2016

Hennessey Venom 800: Drag Radials Required

Next year will be the final model year for the Dodge Viper. Several special editions have been announced and already sold out, but no major mechanical upgrades are offered. Before these ten cylinder snakes slither off into sunset, a few have been caught by Hennessey Performance as the ultimate expression of this American supercar.John Hennessey began his career by modifying Vipers in his parents' garage. Being the cornerstone of the business, they have pulled out all the stops to make 808 hp and 790 lb-ft of torque. The giant X-brace across the engine prohibits the use of a roots style supercharger, and good luck finding room along the exhaust for turbos. So they have turned to the largest centrifugal blower we have ever seen.At only 5 psi of boost pressure, Venom 800 reaches 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. Bold wording on their website warns potential buyers that optional drag racing tires are needed to prevent wheel spin. With a prepped drag strip the Venom offers 10.5 seconds in the quarter mile at 143 mph. The fuel and exhaust systems are all new, and each car will be dyno tuned before delivery. This package is available for all Vipers from 2013 to present and comes with a 1 year/12,000 mile limited warranty. For more information, please head over to HPE's Venom 800 page here.

By Andrew Nabors – July 12, 2016

Mercedes G500 4x4² By Mansory

With an exterior design that has not changed much since 1979, the G-Class Mercedes has received a21st-century drivetrain in the new G550 4×4². The superscript signifies everything being raised to the second power, which starts with the 4.0L twin turbo V8 from the AMG GT S. New portal axles offer more width and ground clearance; along with a mechanical advantage for crawling over broken terrain. To offset the added weight, Mansory has arrived with a host of upgrades for the new model. (Also Check Out - Mansory Builds 1 of 1 Mercedes-AMG GT S) To showcase their prowess in the art of carbon fiber, the fender flares, hood, grille, and most other trim pieces are made of the light composite. Under the fancy hood, custom tuning by Mansory has unlocked an additional 63 hp with help of an angry exhaust system. A few acres of hand stitched leather cover the interior, with billet aluminum and carbon accents. It may seem like overkill for such a limited production model, but Mansory has a history of enhancing the rarest cars on earth. G Class For Sale

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