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

Aston Martin News

Aston Martin news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated daily with model reveals, first drives, auction results and current market values. Our coverage runs across the Vantage, the DB12 and the DBX707, alongside landmark engineering projects such as the Valkyrie and Valhalla. We also follow the earlier cars that established the marque's name for British craftsmanship. Reporting comes from first-drive access and from the auction floors where these cars change hands. One thing separates this from other luxury sports car news. Many of the Aston Martins covered here are listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, so the story and the asking price appear together. For Aston Martin news today, and the performance car news around it, start below.

By Andrew Nabors – January 08, 2020

Aston Martin Announces 2021 V12 Speedster

With Daytona Speedweeks ramping up, it is a time to celebrate cars that have changed the sport of motor racing. The year was 1959 and the race was the 24 hours of LeMans. The Aston Martin DBR1 took home the trophy for Queen & Country. To remind the world of what they are capable of, Aston Martin has announced the 2021 V12 Speedster. Limited to only 88 cars, this open-cockpit rocket also has influences from the CC100 Speedster Concept seen below. Under the bonnet, you will find their 5.2L twin-turbo V12. Browse All Aston Martin for sale The press release predicts an output of 690 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Essentially a de-tuned engine from the DBS Superleggera, power was dialed back to keep this featherweight safe on the street. Your local dealer is ready to order yours, so act fast. Click the button above to find out more and stay with us for all your Aston Martin news. " width="680"> Related: Jay Leno Drives the Aston Martin DB11 AMR Aston Martin Valkyrie: Price, Specs & Pics

By Andrew Nabors – January 06, 2020

Jay Leno Drives the Aston Martin DB11 AMR

As you are reading this, Aston Martin is preparing for the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Fans of the iconic brand are usually aware of their dominance in racing, but it hasn't translated into U.S.-spec models- until now! That's why we're glad to see Jay Leno drive the Aston Martin DB11 AMR. Under the bonnet is a 630 horsepower V12 offering 516 lb-ft of torque. Essentially it is a detuned powertrain from their DBS Superleggera, and we're ok with that. The chassis has received stiffer polyurethane bushings, and engineers worked to move the engine and transmission closer to the center of gravity. View Jay Leno's Car Collection This all translates into a perfect blend of luxury and performance. Click the button below to find your Aston Martin DB11 for sale and stay with us for all your AMR updates. Browse All Aston Martin DB11 For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – December 09, 2019

Aston Martin and Airbus Corporate Helicopters Team Up for...

Aston Martin and Airbus Corporate Helicopters have announced a new partnership that will combine the automotive and aeronautical worlds. The first product of this new partnership will be unveiled in early 2020. Both brands have been working closely to develop this first creation. “Applying our own automotive design principles in the aerospace world is a fascinating challenge and one that we are very much enjoying," said Aston Martin Lagonda Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman. "I’m looking forward to the reveal in the New Year so we can show everyone what we have accomplished together.” The unveiling of this new creation will take place in the French Alps on 3 January 2020. SEE ALL ASTON MARTINS FOR SALE

By Edward Jones – December 04, 2019

First James Bond 'No Time To Die' Trailer is Here

The very first trailer for the upcoming James Bond film, 'No Time To Die', is finally here. Yet, it comes to us in a bit of a somber way as it looks to be the last time we will see Daniel Craig as the famous spy. In the trailer, found below, we get a taste of the automotive action that Bond films are known for. His vehicle of choice in the trailer is the Aston Martin DB5, but there will be more Aston Martin cars in this film. For the plot, it takes Bond away from a relaxing life in Jamaica as he's thrust into a treacherous mission to rescue a scientist. Just wait until you see the new villian. Check it out below! SEE ALL ASTON MARTINS FOR SALE " width="680">

By Edward Jones – November 27, 2019

Aston Martin and Bowmore to Create Limited Edition Whisky

Whisky aficionados rejoice as Aston Martin has announced that Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky is going to be their exclusive spirits partner. If you're unfamiliar with Bowmore, they are the oldest distillery on Islay, an island in Scotland that's known for its whisky. Together, these two brands will release rare whisky bottlings that fans of both brands will love. There will also be exclusive events and experiences that will bring this partnership to fans around the world. We'll be sure to bring you more information regarding this partnership as more information is released. SEE ALL ASTON MARTINS FOR SALE

By Edward Jones – November 26, 2019

Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Concorde Special Edition An...

The new Aston Martin Wings Series has a new addition called the DBS Superleggera Concorde Special Edition. Aston Martin created this car as a celebration of the Concorde supersonic passenger jet, which took its first flight 50 years ago. Only 10 examples of this model will be created, each being completely personalized at the hands of Q by Aston Martin. There are a few features that come standard that make the DBS Superleggera Concorde Special Edition a standout model. Exterior features include the Bespoke aluminum side strakes, a British Airways color scheme, black-tinted carbon fiber roof, British Airways ‘Speedmarque’ logo on the front wings, and even authentic jet black painted Civil Aviation Authority aircraft identifier numbers. Inside are even more exclusive touches, like the Concorde logo on the front seats, Machmeter graphic embroidery on the driver's sun visor and more. As mentioned before, only 10 examples will be created and they are available to purchase through Aston Martin Bristol. SEE ALL DBS SUPERLEGGERAS FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – November 20, 2019

Aston Martin DBX Revealed

You have been good all year, so why not reward yourself with something amazing. As the first SUV from this historic marque, the Aston Martin DBX is the perfect Holliday gift. Unveiled to the world in Beijing this morning, it is a work of art 106 years in the making. Combining the best features of a sports car and an off-road machine, it is being assembled at their new plant in St. Athan, Wales. The first 500 examples will feature the '1913 Package'. It consists of bespoke badging, and a build book signed by CEO Marek Reichman. Also included is an invitation to a cocktail party at the Waldorf Astoria. Browse All Aston Martin For Sale Under the hood is a 4-liter Mercedes-AMG V8 tuned to 550 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. U.S. pricing starts at $189,900 which includes 3 years of maintenance. Click the button above to find our dealer near you and stay with us for a comprehensive review of the Aston Martin DBX. " width="680"> Related: Aston Martin Wings Series Announced Aston Martin AMB 001 Debuts in Milan

By Edward Jones – November 13, 2019

Aston Martin Wings Series Announced

All of Aston Martin's aviation-related projects have come together as the new Aston Martin Wings Series. If you didn't know, Aston Martin actually has very strong ties to the Royal Air Force. In fact, three of their four UK manufacturing locations are former RAF Stations. The connection between Aston Martin and the RAF has led to the new "Aston Martin Wings" program. This bespoke service will create limited edition models based around aviation over the coming years. Examples of these aviation-based Aston Martins include the Vanquish S Red Arrows edition and V8 Vantage S Blades Edition. "Aston Martin will always be synonymous with aviation, from our wings logo to the heritage of our manufacturing sites across the UK," said Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President and Group CEO. "The Vanquish S Red Arrows edition was a great success for everyone concerned and I look forward to seeing our future aviation-related special editions." SEE ALL ASTON MARTINS FOR SALE

By Edward Jones – November 07, 2019

1st Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato Continuations Delivered

Finally, the Aston Martin DB4 G Zagato Continuation sports cars are being delivered to their respective owners. This incredible car is part of the Aston Martin DBZ Centenary Collection, which costs over $7.5 million. It may have taken a bit of time for these cars to get to their owners, but that's understandable considering the build time. Aston Martin notes that these hand-built sports cars take over 4,500 hours to create at their Heritage Division headquarters. "It has been our privilege and our pleasure to work with Zagato in the creation of these remarkable sports cars," says Andy Palmer, Aston Martin Lagonda President & Group CEO. "Now arriving in the hands of a tiny group of owners across the world I’m sure they, like me, will be honored to play their part in the history of this great brand." SEE ALL ASTON MARTINS FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – November 05, 2019

Aston Martin AMB 001 Debuts in Milan

Never before has the Aston Martin badge adorned a motorcycle. That is because there has never been a 2-wheeler worthy of their efforts. Welcome to the future of v-twin superbikes, as the Aston Martin AMB 001 has debuted in Milan. Working with Brough Motorcycles in France, they have combined a carbon fiber chassis with a massive turbocharged v-twin. The result is a gorgeous machine finished in Stirling Green and Lime Essence. Conservatively rated at 180 horsepower, all 100 examples will be confined to the racetrack. Browse All Aston Martin FOr Sale Taking inspiration from the Valkyrie and the Valhalla, your new bike has arrived. Click the button above to find our Aston Martin dealer near you and stay with us for all your Aston Martin updates.

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