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 – May 14, 2019

Aston Martin Rapide E Stuns Spectators in Monaco

Formula E has racing is dominated by the latest in electric technology, so many manufacturers have used the races to showcase their latest models. Such was the case on Saturday, as the Aston Martin Rapide E stunned spectators in Monaco. In their latest press release, we learned that Aston Martin works driver Darren Turner was behind the wheel. Winning LeMans three times gives him the confidence to push this 600 horsepower sedan to its limits. Instead of the traditional V12, you will find a an 800v battery pack. It powers twin rear motors to deliver 700 lb-ft of torque. The capacity of 65 kWh is comparable to the base model Tesla Model S 60, which operates at only 375 volts. Perhaps Aston Martin will have a competitive range thanks to the higher voltage, we will find out when production begins later this year. Only 155 examples will be built, so tell us how much you would pay to have one of the final Rapides in the comments below. Browse Aston Martin Rapide For Sale Related: Aston Martin Rapide E Unveiled at Auto Shanghai Rapide E: Aston Martin's First Electric Car

By Andrew Nabors – April 16, 2019

Aston Martin Rapide E Unveiled at Auto Shanghai

In contrast to luxury marques who jumped into electric cars, Aston Martin decided to take their time. We've seen prototypes over the past few years, and now the car is ready for production. A press release earlier today shows the Aston Martin Rapide E unveiled at Auto Shanghai. China is a booming market for British and American luxury cars, and their air pollution is a major health concern. That's why electric cars are being embraced by the nation. The Rapide made the most sense because the long driveshaft tunnel could easily hold a battery pack. Fully charged to 800 volts, it offers 601 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque. Williams Advanced Engineering was brought in to validate their efforts, so you know it will be a fast sedan. They developed a new aero package to optimize air under the car while also cooling the batteries. With a range over 200 miles, it can be charged with home A/C power, 400v, & 800v DC. This limited run of 155 cars will usher in the electric era at Aston Martin, so click the link below to find our dealer near you. Browse Aston Martin Rapide For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – September 12, 2018

Rapide E: Aston-Martin's First Electric Car

We heard rumors last year that the Rapide S was not available for order. Aston Martin's sleek sedan was put on hiatus to our dealers. While they could have dropped in the same AMG V8 used in the latest Vantage, they chose a path of high voltage. In a press release this morning, we have learned the shocking details of the new Rapide E.Check out the Sultan of Brunei's CollectionIn a limited run of 155 cars, they have partnered with Williams Advanced Engineering for the all-electric drive. Two electric motors offer a combined output of 601 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque. It uses an 800v battery, which is capable of quick charging at 400v stations. The 5,600 individual cells are packed into a shape that is close to that of the Aston Martin 6-liter V12 it replaces.Both electric motors and their reduction gears take the place of the gas tank and the rear transaxle, so the Rapide E retains its perfect weight distribution. Their goal is over 200 miles of range with 0-60 under 4 seconds. Click the link below to find the last remaining V12 models and ask our dealers about their battery-powered future.Browse Aston Martin Rapide For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 13, 2018

Aston Martin Unveils the Rapide AMR

If you are in the market for a fast luxury sedan, Aston Martin needs a few minutes of your time. That's because they have borrowed the 603 horsepower V12 from the Vantage GT12 and dropped it into their 4-door. In a press release this morning, we learn the Rapide AMR will be limited to 210 examples and offered in three versions: Standard, Silhouette, and Signature.CEO Andy Palmer said: "AMR takes technology and inspiration from our motorsport programme to amplify the sporting prowess in our road cars which is clear to see in the Rapide AMR, Aston Martin’s most extreme, 4-door sports car. With enhanced performance, sharper dynamics and more powerful design language, Aston Martin has taken Rapide to new and exciting extremes.”Bespoke Aston Martin Rapide S from Dom PérignonIt is the first Rapide to reach 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, along with a top speed of 205 mph. A car this capable needs powerful brakes, so it also arrives with 15.7" rotors. The 21" wheels are unique to this model. It is nearly identical to the concept shown at Geneva last year, with carbon fiber in all the right places. Under the carbon fiber hood is ample room for the V12, so AMR developed longer intake runners. This pushes torque up to 465 lb-ft....more than enough to scare your in-laws! Of course, if you don't need that much power, the Rapide and Rapide S are both excellent choices. So click the link below and stay with us for all your Aston Martin newsBrowse Aston Martin Rapide For Sale

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By Caitlin Duffy – October 21, 2015

Aston Martin Introduces Electric RapidE Concept

The car industry's shift toward sustainable energy sources is picking up speed at an ever growing pace, and Aston Martin has introduced their electric vehicle: the RapidE concept car.The British marque announced this commitment to developing a zero emissions vehicle during a visit from Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, Catherine, Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cambridge, and Chinese President Xi Jinping. As a press release and video issued today by Aston Martin describes, the electric Rapide S is on display outside of London's Lancaster House, where the royal meeting took place.“The exciting RapidE concept tangibly demonstrates the capability and ambition of Aston Martin towards developing low- and zero-emission sports cars,” stated Aston Martin CEO Dr. Andy Palmer in the release. The initiative comes as part of the British GREAT campaign, an effort to "showcase the best of what the UK has to offer" to the world in the hopes of attracting new business, investments, students and visitors.Research into the EV's development will come from a joint effort by Aston Martin and ChinaEquity, a Chinese investment group, marking a point of success for the campaign. President Xi is currently on a four day visit to the United Kingdom; as the BBC reported Oct. 20, his visit is part of an initiative to strengthen ties between the two countries. During a state banquet, "the Queen hailed the 'milestone' visit of President Xi and declared Anglo-Chinese ties were being taken to 'ambitious new heights'," described the BBC.(See Also: V8 Engine Drag Race: AMG GT vs 458 Italia and Vantage)Should development between ChinaEquity and Aston Martin be successful, it's expected that the RapidE electric vehicle could plausibly come to market within the next two years.Stay with us for more updates on this electric vehicle as they are released, and in the meantime, find one of Aston Martin's fuel-powered models from our exclusive listings below.Aston Martins For Sale (Source: Aston Martin, YouTube, BBC) See More Aston Martin News

By Caitlin Duffy – July 16, 2015

Bespoke Aston Martin Rapide S from Dom Pérignon

In another show of their prolific ability to create an incredible and bespoke vehicle, Aston Martin has partnered with famed champagne creator Dom Pérignon to create a unique Rapide S.Aston Martin Milan shared a gallery of the customized vehicle, announcing its introduction to the world this month during a tour of Italian resorts and restaurants, on their Facebook page July 13. In the trunk of the vehicle is a stunning, handcrafted, removable carrying case, perfectly designed to contain three bottles of Dom Pérignon's special batch Deuxième Plénitude champagne, along with two glasses.The exterior of the Rapide S is a stunning black with chrome details and subtle but bright red calipers, while the interior is a blend of dark brown and burgundy leathers. After the exclusive tour introducing this model, the gallery's caption tells us this bespoke creation will become a new option for clients of Aston Martin Milan.(See Also: Aston Martin, Red Bull Racing Reported to Create New Supercar)Take a moment to see this Rapide S in closer detail in the gallery below, and when you're finished, find your own Aston Martin from our exclusive listings.Aston Martins For Sale Gallery (Source: Facebook via GTspirit) See More Aston Martin News

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