Articles

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

350767289 749049457020285 5764028772372593879 n.jpg

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 25, 2023

Shop These Must-Have Essentials For Every Mercedes-AMG Ow...

Whether you're off-road in a G63 or tracking an AMG ONE, these luxury Mercedes-inspired products will fuel your performance lifestyle.

Test Drive Mercedes AMG GT 63 Granada 2023

By Tyler Rampersaud – November 14, 2023

2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe: The Future of AMG Performance...

The second generation of Mercedes-AMG's performance coupe is here with much more to bring to the table.

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 24, 2023

Mercedes-Benz Reveals The All-New AMG GLE 53 Hybrid Plug-...

The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Hybrid packs a powerful punch with an inline-six engine and electric motor. The automotive world is buzzing with the introduction of the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Hybrid, showcasing a game-changing blend of performance and practicality. Available in SUV and Coupe versions, this plug-in hybrid is the latest efficient addition to Mercedes’ dynamic lineup. Under the hood, an AMG-upgraded 3.0L inline-six engine produces more than 443 horsepower, 14 horsepower more than the year previous, thanks to updated software and an extra heat exchanger. An electric motor adds an additional 134 horsepower, bringing the total system output to an astonishing 536 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The result? A blistering 0-60 mph time of just 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. The GLE 53 Hybrid is about balancing raw power and its intelligent use of energy. Its all-electric driving capability reaches up to 87 mph, backed by an 11 kW AC and 60 kW DC onboard charger for quick battery replenishment. Inside, the MBUX infotainment system has been tailored to suit the hybrid experience, displaying essential metrics like charging status and electric range. The hybrid model also stands out with its unique suspension system, AMG RIDE CONTROL+, offering a blend of sporty character and acoustic damping for electric driving. When it comes to driving modes, the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT provides customized settings, including two hybrid-specific programs: "Electric" and "Battery Hold." The former allows all-electric driving up to 87 mph, while the latter maintains the battery's state of charge, optimizing energy use. Exterior and interior elements portray ‘hybrid power’ with specialized badges and a high-performance AMG brake system. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Hybrid marks a significant step forward in the luxury performance segment, setting the bar high for future hybrids to come. View all Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Mercedes-Benz GLE For Sale Source: Mercedes-Benz

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 09, 2023

Mercedes-Maybach Joins Forces With Space Perspective For ...

Mercedes-Maybach partners with Space Perspective, innovators in carbon-neutral space travel, offering luxury spaceflight experiences with sustainable ground transport. In a stellar partnership, Mercedes-Maybach is proud to be teaming up with Space Perspective, a pioneer in offering the world's first carbon-neutral spaceflight experiences. Founded by spaceflight veterans Jane Poynter and Taber MacCallum in 2019, Space Perspective is redefining the way we view modern-day space travel. The company's Spaceship Neptune is designed to transport its Explorers in a pressurized capsule to 100,000 feet using a groundbreaking SpaceBalloon. Not only does it prioritize the safety of its passengers, but its carbon-neutral approach also focuses on environmental conservation. The collaboration between these two luxury giants aims to elevate the celestial journey of Space Perspective’s explorers, experiencing the extravagance of Mercedes-Maybach even before lift-off. Mercedes-Maybach commits to providing all-electric vehicles to ensure explorers and guests travel sustainably to and from Space Perspective’s facilities and the launch site located on Florida's illustrious Space Coast. Further sweetening the deal, Space Perspective's state-of-the-art spacecraft will be showcased in Mercedes-Maybach's latest brand film. This partnership doesn’t end with just transport solutions. Talks are underway between the design teams of Space Perspective and Mercedes-Maybach, exploring other integrations to infuse more Maybach into the space travel experience. As space tourism takes off, this collaboration ensures that Explorers witness the wonders of space while journeying in unmatched style and luxury. View all Mercedes-Maybach models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Mercedes-Maybach For Sale Source: Mercedes-Benz

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 26, 2023

Sotheby's Motorsport Is Auctioning Off This Ultra-Rare 20...

Any collector or fan of Mercedes-Benz is going to want to check out this rare opportunity. Throughout Mercedes-Benz's successful history as an automotive manufacturer and motorsports champion, there have been vehicles that continue to hold significance among passionate car collectors and enthusiasts. Some of those collector-grade cars share a similarity in being a part of Mercedes-Benz's ultra-exclusive AMG Black Series, incorporating design characteristics and performance engineering from the winning Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team. Showcasing one of the most desirable models from the limited-production series, the professionals at Sotheby's Motorsport are pleased to offer this pristine 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series as part of its current online auction lineup. With worldwide production of 350 units and only 175 of those delivered to the U.S., this specific SL65 AMG Black Series features a gloss black finish from Mercedes-Benz. In addition to an aggressive body style and lower ride height, model-specific carbon fiber bodywork comes complete with an active rear wing and diffuser for optimal aerodynamics at high speeds. A set of factory 19/20-inch sports wheels acts as the traction-grabbing source for the subcompact supercar, with AMG carbon ceramic brakes supplying the stopping power. Inside, the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series reveals a subtly stealthy Black AMG Exclusive leather interior. The driver-centric cabin presents a sport-focused look and feel thanks to gloss carbon fiber trim accents, 12-way power heated & ventilated AMG sport seats, power 4-way steering wheel, and luxuries including Airscarf neck-level heating. An AMG instrument cluster with racetimer and gear position displays raises the Black Series' urgency over standard SL cockpits. The Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series comes fit with a monstrous 6.0L bi-turbocharged V12 AMG engine, paired with a 5-speed driver-adaptive electronic AMG automatic transmission. Fitted during current ownership with a RENNtech R3 Performance Package, the output is further pushed to a claimed 810 horsepower and 1,000 lb-ft of torque according to the aftermarket manufacturer. With an odometer reading of 8,984 miles at the time of listing, this 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series is sold with a clean Montana Title registered to the seller's Montana LLC. This 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series auction from Sotheby's Motorsport is currently live for bidding and ends on September 28th. View Sotheby's Motorsport Auction Listing Source: Sotheby's Motorsport

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 26, 2023

Mick Schumacher Spotted Driving A Rare Mercedes-Benz 190E...

While he wasn't on schedule to race, Mick Schumacher surely enjoyed his 190E EVO 2 rental. While the traditional office setting for a Formula 1 racing driver takes shape as the cockpit of a high-performance race car, we as F1 fans often wonder what cars the drivers choose for everyday commutes. As we found out last year with Lewis Hamilton's wild ride through Japan in a $250K R34 Nissan GT-R, the most desirable and exclusive cars are regularly available for professional racers, no matter where they are in the world. Leading up to the Japanese Grand Prix this past weekend, current Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 reserve driver Mick Schumacher was spotted out in the streets of Japan with Monster Energy and Top Secret driving an ultra-rare Mercedes-Benz 190E EVO 2. Mick took to his Instagram to not only post some pictures and videos of the occasion but also to express his excitement for the chance to drive one of the most significant race cars in Mercedes-Benz's motorsport history. The Mercedes-Benz 190E EVO 2 is a legendary homologation special that was born to meet the requirements of the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) racing series. Under the hood is a 2.5L 16-valve four-cylinder engine that produces 235 horsepower and is coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. As for performance, the EVO 2 can sprint from 0-60 mph in around 7.1 seconds and has a top speed of approximately 155 mph. Having spent some time exploring and sightseeing around Japan in the Mercedes-Benz 190E EVO 2, this proves that Mick Schumacher is an old soul with a passion for racing classics. View all Mercedes-Benz models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Mercedes-Benz For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@mercedesamgf1) Source: @mickschumacher