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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 – August 26, 2020

2021 Porsche Panamera Highlights

Now that the formal reveal is over, allow us to offer the juicy details of their "Executive Sedan". So without further adieu, here are the 2021 Porsche Panamera Highlights. Starting with the Panamera Turbo S, it has gained 80 horsepower and 37 lb-ft of torque. The twin turbo V8 reaches 62 mph in 3.1 seconds and it lapped the 'Ring in only 7:29.81, only a hair slower than the Camaro ZL1. It offers 630 horsepower, only 11 less than the same 4-liter in the Lamborghini Urus. " width="680"> If you need efficiency, the Panamera GTS offers 480 horsepower thanks to smaller turbos. It is programmed to respond like a naturally aspirated V8, with 457 lb-ft of torque. Hybrid fans rejoice because you will have 34 miles of electric range from an 18 kWh battery. Under the hood is their 2.9-liter twin-turbo that offers a combined output of 560 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The same gas engine is offered in the base model Panamera, and it is rated at 330 horsepower & 331 lb-ft of torque. No matter what model you choose, the chassis and suspension were tuned at Weissach to be the best luxury "Executive Sedan" and crossover on the market. Click the link below to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche Panamera For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 25, 2020

Porsche Expands Subscription Service in Los Angeles

Buying or even leasing a Porsche is a major obligation, so why not subscribe? Now that rental car companies are falling like a house of cards, Porsche has announced an expansion of their subscription service in L.A. It is the same program offered in Atlanta, Phoenix, and San Diego. Subscribers will have access to the same Porsche for 3 months, at which point they can choose a different model. This allows members to take the ultimate test drive and its a brilliant move targeting a younger demographic to make them Porsche fans for life. See the New Porsche Panamera Premiere Here Klaus Zellmer, President and CEO of PCNA says: “If California were a country, it would be our fifth-largest market in the world. After bringing Porsche Drive to San Diego last summer, Los Angeles was an obvious choice to allow customers to experience a variety of Porsche sports cars and SUVs at the touch of an app. Now, in addition to our Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles track, LA residents or those visiting LA have another way to enjoy a Porsche". If you live near these cities, the program officially starts on September 25th, so click the button below to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – June 12, 2020

Porsche 911 Magazine Explains Targa Details

Understanding your customer is the most important way to stay at the top of your industry. It might seem foolish for an automaker to offer a dozen distinct versions of their flagship, but Porsche has never conformed to industry trends. That is why each new version of the 992 Seris Porsche 911 for sale is greeted with open arms by enthusiasts around the world. Porsche Design Introduces the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition Chronograph Now that the new Turbo S is heading our way, we are delighted at the details of the Targa. From the return of its manual transmission to the Heritage Edition, it is unlike anything else on the market. We have touched on the details in previous posts, so now its time for Porsche 911 Magazine to explain the finer points of the new Porsche 911 Targa for sale. Browse Porsche Targa 4 For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – May 12, 2020

Porsche and Chevrolet Decline 24 Hours of Le Mans

What happens when the biggest rivalry in recent history refuses to fight? To keep teams and spectators safe, the FIA, along with ALMS decided to move the race to September 19th. While this was a smart move, several other mandates were included. Team Corvette Racing's C8.R is limited to a 44.3mm throttle body. Only slightly larger than a golf ball, forcing a giant to breathe through a straw is not fair. That is perhaps why Automotive News has reported that Porsche and Chevrolet are sitting this one out. Porsche drivers wouldn't have much fun without Chevrolet, as they would likely lap the field a dozen times. The immense cost involved along with the rise of eSports are also considerations, so we're likely to see more major teams back out of the event. Our vote is to allow Stadium Super Trucks at Circuit de la Sarthe before this historic event implodes. As always, stay with us for all your Le Mans updates. https://twitter.com/CorvetteRacing/status/1259903377766572032

By Andrew Nabors – April 07, 2020

Porsche 911 Turbo S Arrives With InnoDrive

Automation can be scary for those who enjoy interacting with their automobile. I was hesitant to engage SuperCruise on the latest Cadillac CT6, but it performed flawlessly on the interstate. Porsche unveiled a similar system on the Panamera in 2018, and now it has been perfected. So we're happy to see the Porsche 911 Turbo S will arrive with InnoDrive. This optional system uses 360-degree HD cameras, radar, and powerful graphics hardware to control several systems. When engaged, the driver allows the new Porsche 911 Turbo S to hold the center of the lane. Not only in traffic or in a straight line, but it will also maneuver through the corners on its own. Depending on driving mode, it will command the PDK transmission to shift up or down. Up if you are Eco mode to maximize fuel savings. When it sees no obstacles ahead, your friend will drop a gear in Sport mode. All the while, adaptive cruise will brake and accelerate to your desired distance. As soon as this situation clears we will have a thorough review, so stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche 911 For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – February 17, 2020

Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur Unveils 2 New 911 Packages

With the development of the 2020 Porsche 911 Turbo for sale, they have learned a few aerodynamic tricks in the process. In the past, Carrera fans who wanted the Turbo body were forced into a GTS, or other mid-level trim. Thankfully Stuttgart is listening to us as Porsche Exclusive Manufactur has unveiled 2 new 911 packages. First off, they are mutually exclusive and can be ordered together. The most obvious is the SportDesign package. It has a more aggressive front end and rear bumper. The license plates are raised to dissipate turbulence, and allow more air to the radiators. Optional are the SportDesign rocker panels, which make the car appear much lower to the ground. The most striking upgrade is the Aerokit. It combines a Gurney Flap along with a massive rear spoiler. 2020 Porsche 911 (992): Price, Specs, Photos & Review These parts are the result of 56,000 miles of real-world testing, and they are available wherever new Porsche 911 for sale. Click the link below to order yours, and stay with us for all your Porsche 911 news. Browse All Porsche 911 For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – February 05, 2020

RUF Releases 80th Anniversary Books

Alois Ruf opened his garage in 1939 and started making fast cars even faster. His family has built 37 unique examples of incredible cars, all based on new Porsche 911 for sale. To celebrate their long & prosperous history RUF has released two 80th anniversary books. The "Limited Edition" hardcover is limited to 911 examples, and the "Very Limited & Personalized" is limited to 356 copies. Both have been published by Waft, a Husband & Wife team who are fans of the brand. Click the button below to find your 911, and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse all Porsche 911 For Sale " width="680"> Related: Check Out Jay Leno's Collection!

By Andrew Nabors – December 19, 2019

Porsche Top 5: Most Iconic Liveries

What comes to mind when you imagine a Porsche on the Mulsanne Straight? Of all the famous paint schemes, the Porsche 917 has worn the most memorable colors. The first car was built to show the world a preview in Green & White. For aerodynamic advantage, the Pink Pig was a butcher's dream come true. Browse All Porsche For Sale The Gulf livery can be found on fast fords, McLarens, and others. Each car has to be approved by the Texas-based oil company before the base coats can be sprayed. That's why it's our favorite. Tell us your favorite in the comments below and stay with us for the next episode of Porsche Top 5! " width="680"> Related: Porsche 993 Specs, Photos, Prices & Review

By Andrew Nabors – November 08, 2019

Michael Fassbender: Road to LeMans

UPDATE 11/8: Michael's success has continued to blossom, therefore we have updated this post with the latest film at the bottom. As an accomplished star of several films, Porsche is documenting their newest driver: Michael Fassbender in his road to LeMans. This series will show the trials and tribulations of the season, which culminates at the Circuit de la Sarthe on June 13th. This will be the 88th running of LeMans, twice around the clock for a shot at immortality. His first challenge was conquering the famous tracks in his German homeland: First up was Hockenheimring " width="680"> Up next on the roster was one of the most loved and hated tracks in history: Nürburgring Nordschleife. It was repaved last year to smooth some of the rough pavement, but the idea of racing through the Eifel forests in a screaming 911 will humble any driver. Browse All Porsche 911 For Sale After following his teammates to find the perfect line. After missing 2 red flags, he was penalized to start in 19th place. The Porsche Racing Experience is a nail-biting series, so stay with us for continuing coverage from tracks around the world. " width="680"> After the ordeal of the Green Hell, it was on to Sachsenring. Lapping the track in a new Porsche 911 allowed him to preview the race. Walking the track with the team gave him a mental map of the curves and elevation. " width="680"> As Michael's goal is to race the Porsche RSR, he had to graduate from the Porsche 911 Cup Car. You will see and hear the differences in these two machines in Episode 4 below: " width="680"> Episode 5 takes place at the historic Spa-Francorchamps circuit. Friday was wet, so they practiced on older tires. This allowed him to learn the track and prepare for a stellar Sunday. " width="680"> Stay with us as we continue to follow his journey. Related: Porsche Gifts: New Porsche Drivers' Selection Apparel Porsche & Boeing Join Forces to Create Uber Air

By Andrew Nabors – October 11, 2019

Porsche & Boeing Join Forces to Create Uber Air

William Boeing was born in 1881 to German emigrants in Detroit. He grew up to found The Boeing Company in 1916, a company that would become the Boeing we know today. Over the decades, Boeing has evolved but their latest partnership with Porsche seems to be one of the most extreme yet. In a press release last night, both companies signaled the start of research. This will encounter miles of red tape from the FAA and its European equivalents due to decades of bureaucracy. Whatever the end result, it will be safer than private aviation, so long as you give your autonomous flying Porsche a 5-Star review. We hope this is not just a ploy to take heat off of the 737 MAX sensor debacle, so stay with us for more Porsche & Boeing new. Related: Top 10 Reasons Why To Buy Porsche 918 Spyder Porsche 911 GT2 RS Specs, Price, Photos & Review

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