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 Jordan Aquistapace – November 05, 2021

MANSORY Debuts Its New Aston Martin DBX

It was only a matter of time before the engineers at MANSORY took on the DBX to refine it as part of a complete conversion. The Aston Martin DBX is just one of the new performance-focused SUVs launched by a luxury automotive manufacturer. The DBX provides a supercar-like driving experience with the capability of fitting up to five passengers with more extra storage space. Although the factory design and performance of the Aston Martin DBX stands as an industry leader, the luxury aftermarket specialists at Mansory re-imagined the super SUV with a list of custom modifications. The build is categorized as a complete vehicle conversion, which applies to the exterior, interior, and engine management of the Aston Martin DBX. The exterior is finished in a Black Metallic paint scheme with Lime Green accents to accentuate the aggressive body lines. The aggressive styling comes from a full carbon fiber body kit that includes the front bumper, front lip, hood, fenders, side skirts, rear bumper, rear diffuser, and wing. With a lower ride height from its performance suspension, the DBX features a new wheel design called "DX.5" in 10x24 inch (front) and 12.5x24 inch (rear) dimensions with matching 295/30R24 and 355/25R24 tire sizes. MUST-READ: The All-New Mansory Softkit For The Rolls-Royce Dawn & Wraith The interior is kept entirely in black. The special color “Lime Green" used to accentuate details on the exterior is also found in many places in the interior. The edging of the floor mats, the seats, the center console, the decorative stitching on the dashboard, and the sports airbag steering wheel are all finished in this color. Individually embroidered floor mats, the use of fine visible carbon and the covering of almost all surfaces with the finest leather add further highlights to the masterfully handcrafted interior. The heart of the DBX, its V8 twin-turbo engine, also underwent extensive modifications by the engineers of the Mansory Performance Department. This includes a completely new engine management system, new and larger turbochargers, a sports air filter, and a high-performance sports exhaust system. Thanks to all these changes, the DBX, after its conversion at Mansory, delivers an impressive 800-horsepower and torque of 738- ft. lb. of torque on the rollers of the dynamometer. The all-new Mansory Aston Martin DBX is currently available through the German aftermarket specialists. View all current Aston Martin DBX models available for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Aston Martin DBX For Sale Source: MANSORY

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 18, 2021

Watch The New Aston Martin x Luca Guadagnino DBX Short Film

The Aston Martin DBX displays its true capabilities on and off-road through the Sicilian landscape. The Aston Martin DBX embodies the versatility of a Sport Utility Vehicle, while still incorporating track-inspired performance. Aston Martin is proud to announce its newest collaboration project with renowned Italian film director Luca Guadagnino. The short film released on the Aston Martin YouTube channel highlights the DBX’s journey through Sicily, Italy. MUST-READ: Sebastian Vettel Embraces a New Beginning With the Aston Martin DBX Behind the wheel of the 542-horsepower, Aston Martin DBX is Golden Globe winner and Emmy Award nominee British actor Josh O’Connor, best known for his role as Prince Charles in Netflix’s global hit ‘The Crown’. The Aston Martin x Luca Guadagnino film highlights the capabilities of the DBX, proving how well the vehicle performs in all settings. Watch the Aston Martin x Luca Guadagnino short film by clicking the link above. View all Aston Martin DBX’s for sale through duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Aston Martin DBX For Sale

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 22, 2021

The Top Discovered on dR This Week

This week's most unique finds for sale discovered on duPont REGISTRY. Recently, We created Discovered on dR as a new Instagram page dedicated to posting the rare and unique finds listed on duPont REGISTRY. Today, we have compiled a list of the best Discovered on dR vehicles available for sale on duPont REGISTRY this week. Click any of the links below for more information on the current listings. 2015 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta⁠ https://www.instagram.com/p/CReXfEarH3d/ View Listing 2021 Aston Martin DBX⁠ https://www.instagram.com/p/CRXOu7WNVWO/ View Listing 2020 McLaren Speedtail⁠ https://www.instagram.com/p/CRkGsOvBt0n/ View Listing 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL⁠ https://www.instagram.com/p/CRhJyfVBg9k/ View Listing 2020 Audi R8 ⁠5.2 V10 Performance https://www.instagram.com/p/CRW24uAtf4E/ View Listing 2006 Dodge Charger⁠ https://www.instagram.com/p/CRjMenItozR/ View Listing 1969 Dodge Daytona https://www.instagram.com/p/CRhh483LmPj/ View Listing 2021 McLaren 765LT https://www.instagram.com/p/CRjuz8sFey2/ View Listing 1999 Lamborghini Diablo VT⁠ https://www.instagram.com/p/CRg2FGUtWC5/ View Listing 1993 Jaguar XJ220 https://www.instagram.com/p/CRY5TMONUN2/ View Listing For more News, Check out The GearBox: Electrified McLaren Artura Apparel & Accessories

By Andrew Nabors – May 04, 2021

Aston Martin Vantage Roadster vs. DBX

Max & Martijn are at it again! The best Aston Martin action vids come from one team. AutoTopNL is based in the Netherlands, and they somehow have access to the world's most exclusive exotic cars for sale. Their hottest models for 2022 are powered by a Mercedes-AMG 4-liter V8 that is also found in the AMG GT R. The DBX has the advantage of AWD, but that incurs a weight penalty compared to the svelte Vantage roadster. The transmission's shift strategy is timed well, and the Vantage can be ordered with a 7-speed stick shift. Tell us which Aston Martin appeals to you in the comments below and stay with us for all your Autobahn videos. Shop Aston Martin DBX Shop Aston Martin Vantage

By Andrew Nabors – April 02, 2021

Sebastian Vettel Embraces a New Beginning With the Aston ...

Formula 1 fans have another reason to celebrate Six decades ago Aston Martin decided to abandon their F1 program. Now with a resurgence in their sales and popularity, Sebastian Vettel is embracing a new beginning with the Aston Martin DBX. The most practical model they have ever offered is arguably the most fun. We see the 4x World Champion traversing the frozen north, allowing the 4-liter V8 to make use of the cool air. Many enthusiasts don't realize why the DBX sounds so familiar until they pop the hood. The twin-turbo masterpiece is built by hand at Mercedes-AMG. It is a cousin to what's offered in every new G63 for sale, and it has been tuned to offer 542 horsepower and 516 torque. Because that torque is offered from 2,000 to 5,000 rpm, the DBX is brute strength wearing velvet gloves. Aston Martin has entered a new market and knocked the ball out of the park. Even if you aren't looking for a new family hauler you are doing yourself a disservice by not experiencing one. So click the button for the ride of a lifetime. Browse Aston Martin DBX For Sale

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By Andrew Nabors – March 08, 2021

Aston Martin Unveils 2021 F1 Safety Cars

Pacing the world's most popular motorsport is not an easy task. You need to be very fast and highly visible, so Aston Martin has unveiled the 2021 Formula 1 Safety Cars. Next weekend the eyes of the world will be on Bahrain, with the Vantage and DBX leading the way. Their first SUV has 550 horsepower and it is loaded with two screens to view live race coverage. Riding shotgun is Dr. Ian Roberts, and a local doctor is also onboard. They have ample room for ambulatory care, along with the ability to carry a driver to the care center. The Vantage needs to take the field ASAP, so engineers found 25 more horsepower under the hood. Now with 535 hp and 505 lb-ft, it reaches 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The new aerodynamics offer 340 lbs of downforce at 124 mph, and the steering, suspension, and chassis were also reinforced. Hopefully, the Q division will make this kit available for us, so tell us which races you are looking forward to this season. Shop Aston Martin Images (C) Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd.

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By Edward Jones – December 07, 2020

Exclusive Aston Martin DBX Bowmore Edition Revealed

Bowmore, the whisky distillery, and Aston Martin have teamed up for a special and exclusive model that will be limited to just 18 examples. The new Aston Martin DBX Bowmore Edition is made possible through Q by Aston Martin's extensive customization capabilities. Each example can be finished in either Bowmore Blue or Xenon Grey. Both of these colors are joined by exquisite copper inlays from the original whisky still. Inside, customers can pick either an Obsidian Monotone or Copper Tan Metallic/Obsidian Duotone interior, both of which a rejoined by Bowmore Tweed. And, just like the exterior, the interior also sports copper trim from the original Bowmore still. Each owner of the DBX Bowmore Edition will be invited to an exclusive Aston Martin Art of Living experience in Scotland where they will be presented with their new DBX and taken on a 170-mile trip through the Scottish countryside. Their goal will be to reach the island of Islay where they will be taken on a private tour of the Bowmore Distillery and given the chance to hand-fill their own bottle of a 39-year-old from the cask. The cherry-on-top of this tour is the visit to the No ! Vaults, the oldest warehouse in the world that has seen the like of VIPs including the Royal Family. Orders for the new Aston Martin DBX Bowmore Edition can be placed now, with delivery expected in Q4 2021. See All Aston Martin DBX For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 22, 2020

Aston Martin Announces Attractive Pricing for 2021 DBX an...

Covid has hit all automakers right where it counts. While some manufacturers have suspended production of their high-end models, Aston Martin has announced attractive pricing for the 2021 DBX and the 2021 Vantage for sale. In a report by CNET, the brand's first SUV has been trimmed by $13,000 and the Vantage is now $14,000 more affordable. Both are built by hand using the latest in materials and engineering. I wish the same strategy was applied to the DBS Superleggera, as it is among the best cars I have driven. If you have been contemplating an English luxury car, strike while the iron is hot. Click the button to find our dealer near you and stay with us for all your Aston Martin news. Browse Aston Martin For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – July 09, 2020

First Aston Martin DBX SUV Rolls Off of Production Line

It's a time to celebrate as the very first Aston Martin DBX has rolled off of the production line. Aston Martin is producing the new SUV at their new manufacturing facility in St Athan, Wales. In fact, this will be the very first Aston Martin to be "Made in Wales." The facility that Aston Martin is using as a manufacturing facility was previously an ex-Ministry of Defense site. Now, it's where new Aston Martins will be created on a daily basis. Keith Stanton, the Aston Martin Interim Chief Operating Office, said the following in a press release form the automaker: “It is a real privilege to be here today to witness the completion of the first production Aston Martin DBX. I’m extremely proud of the Aston Martin team who have worked so hard to transform this ex-Ministry of Defence site into a world-class car manufacturing facility, to now be producing cars, it is testament to the resilience and fortitude of everyone at Aston Martin. It is an honour to see the first DBX come off the line and my only regret is that everyone who works for this incredible brand can’t be here to witness it.” See All Aston Martins for Sale

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