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 – October 18, 2017

Aston Martin Vulcan #14 For Sale

One of the best ways to increase demand is to limit the supply. That's why Aston Martin only built 24 examples of the Vulcan. Using the wild One-77 as a learning experience, they developed a one-piece carbon fiber tub that is only 396 lbs. The end result of a 9 person team, each tub was built in four days, requiring three trips through the Autoclave.Extensive computer modeling allowed the rear suspension, transmission, and spoiler to share the same mounting points. This is just one of the ways strength was optimized and weight was saved. For power, they turned to the GT3 division of Aston Martin Racing. Sure they could have added turbos or a supercharger to the 6.0 liter, but that would be too easy. In order to reach 800 horsepower, a new 7.0 liter V12 needed its own block, heads, and internals. Cosworth supplied the electronics in a unique format. The computer allows for 3 power levels so drivers can adapt to changing conditions.The big V12 sits behind the front wheels to provide an optimal weight distribution, and it is connected to a brutal Xtrac 6-speed sequential transmission. The straight-cut gears provide a rewarding soundtrack, as you shift from paddles on the steering wheel. Inboard suspension with DSSV shocks and adjustable sway bars make for comfort and performance in the same space. They could have used T45 steel for the roll cage. Instead, they went with 15 CDV 6 aerospace steel to save 13 lbs in the chassis. No detail was overlooked, which is why all 24 examples of the Vulcan are guaranteed to never depreciate. If you are looking for an investment, #14 is available by Kaaimans International. It is located in the United Kingdom with 200 miles on the odometer. Click on the link below for all the details and stay with us for more great Aston Martins.Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – May 18, 2017

Aston Martin Vulcans Gather for Epic Track Day

Owning one of the world's rarest cars has some nice perks. The Vulcan from Aston Martin is the ultimate evolution of their 7.0 liter V12. It offers 800 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque to a sequential 6-speed transmission. Because of the extensive racing equipment and lack of pollution controls, it is not street legal. Owners must get permission from the factory before participating in any motorsports events. Only 24 examples were built, and each one had a price tag over $2 million dollars. Much of the engineering and production was done by Multimatic. Their innovative DSSV shocks are mounted on inboard suspension front and rear.Also Check Out: Ferrari F430 For SaleNeedless to say, it's a rare sight to see one in person, so catching a group of them is awe-inspiring. In a YouTube video uploaded by the manufacturer this morning, we are allowed a glimpse of the recent Vulcan gathering at the Circuit of the Americas. The only Formula 1 track in the US is located just outside Austin's City Limits and the world-class facility has been host to everything from V8 Supercars to MotoGP. Vulcan owners were treated like royalty, with food, Stetson hats, and racing rubber. If you would like to be part of the scene, we have new Aston Martin DB11 for sale, with street legal amenities. Stay with us for more Aston Martin event coverage.

By Andrew Nabors – July 26, 2016

Aston Martin Vulcan #11 of 24 Headed to Monterey

Limited production is an understatement when it comes to Aston Martin. Taking lessons learned on the One-77 project, only 24 Vulcans were built. Each one is a hand built statement of world dominance in motorsport. Built in compliance with FIA regulations, Vulcan is a track-only supercar. Without regard to emissions or noise restrictions, they have unlocked 820 hp from a 7.0L evolution of their classic V12.Almost every component of the interior and exterior is made of carbon fiber, including the driveshaft. It connects the engine to a rear mounted transmission, running in a sealed magnesium torque tube. The F1 inspired steering wheel has controls for pit road speed limits along with ABS and stability controls. Turning to the best suppliers in racing, Cosworth supplied the instrumentation, engine controls, and data acquisition. Bosch supplied the ABS system with 11 distinct driver-selected modes. The side exit exhaust is made of Titanium and Inconel which is dumped just ahead of the 12.5" wide rear tires. You probably won't ever see one in person, so stay tuned for our coverage from Monterey.Vulcan #11 is offered by Mecum Auctions and will be available at the Monterey event located at Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa in gorgeous Monterey, California on August 18-20, 2016 as Lot S99. Click here to learn more. This car is going to be a primetime main attraction, so be sure to tune into CNBC between 12-4 PST to see it cross the block. Or better yet, why don't you just head out to Monterey and buy it for yourself!Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – July 19, 2016

Jaw-Dropping Aston Martin Vulcan Sounds and Burnouts

To say that Aston Martin's Vulcan can spin its tires is an understatement. In the best footage of the supercar we have seen so far, the Vulcan was fitted with racing rubber to attack the Goodwood hill climb. Uploaded earlier today by Marchettino, the 7.0L V12 sounds like nothing else on earth. Since the Vulcan was never intended to be street legal, the engine and exhaust are unencumbered by noise or emissions regulations.(Also Watch - Aston Martin DB11 Chases Down Vulcan)Every time we watch a new Vulcan video we find something else to love about the car. Vulcan's composites are crafted by Multimatic, the same wizards responsible for the new Ford GT. Not only are the intakes, heat extractors, and cam covers made of the wonder material; but every component is mirror imaged down the center of the body. Also, this is the best view of the taillights in action, and its as close as most of us will ever be. The 800hp supercar spins completely through 1st and chirps 2nd gear for Queen and Country. The exhaust audio is just as stunning as the visual, so turn up the volume and watch the tires become part of the atmosphere.View Vulcans For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – June 30, 2016

Aston Martin DB11 Chases Down Vulcan

The ultimate track car, the Aston Martin Vulcan, made its way up the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed Hillclimb, twisting and turning through the track. One wouldn't expect this supercar with 800 bhp to be easily followed by anything street legal, but a video posted by Goodwood Road & Racing proves otherwise. As you watch the Vulcan make its way through the winding streets, you might be surprised to find the Aston Martin DB11 (which pumps out 600 hp) creeping up from behind. In fact, had the Festival of Speed Hillclimb been a little wider, the Vulcan might have found itself neck in neck with the DB11.Check out the full video below.Aston DB11 for Sale

By Edward Jones – June 07, 2016

Koenigsegg One:1 vs Aston Martin Vulcan vs...Clones?

There's no denying the fact that both the Koenigsegg One:1 and Aston Martin Vulcan are two of the most extreme vehicles in existence right now. One comes from England and has a massive 7.0-liter V12 powering it. The other has a twin-turbo 5.0-liter V8 engine that's good for 1,340 hp. Each are incredible in their own rights and will be the stars at every auto show they attend for decades to come.This is what makes Castrol EDGE's latest video so interesting. "What happens when you take two world class supercar drivers and clone them." Coined as the trailer for an upcoming "Clone Rival" video, we see both the One:1 and Vulcan going head to head on a race track. While they're pushing it around the corners, the video cuts to scenes of drivers racing on simulators in an indoor facility.(Related: Lamborghini Huracan vs McLaren 650S Spyder All-Out Street Drag Race)I'm not exactly sure what's going to happen in the full video, but I'm still excited. Click play below to see what's coming.Aston Martin Vulcan For Sale | Koenigseggs For Sale

By Edward Jones – February 15, 2016

Six Aston Martins Race Together in Abu Dhabi

Last week, six owners of the absurdly exclusive Aston Martin Vulcan came together at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi for an extremely special occasion. Each of the drivers had a week with an elite team of racing drivers, lead by Aston Martin Racing works' driver Darren Turner, in order to learn the finer points of driving the extreme English supercar.“Aston Martin Vulcan is a very special car and that is why we have developed a unique ownership programme. It includes specialist training so customers can drive in the way it was intended," said David King, Aston Martin Director of Special Projects and Motorsport. "It has been great to see the first customer’s reactions after unleashing their very own Aston Martin Vulcan on the Grand Prix circuit here in Abu Dhabi.”Something pointed out in Aston Martin's press release regarding the event was that this was the first time these drivers had the chance to driver their own Vulcans. Before this point in time, they had only ridden passengers with Darren Turner at the wheel.With only 24 Vulcans planning to be built in total, this gathering means Yas Marina housed one-fourth of all potential Vulcans at one time. Will we see something like this again? I certainly hope so. There's nothing like a handful of 7.0-liter V12 supercars lapping a circuit together.Aston Martin Vulcan For Sale

By Edward Jones – January 29, 2016

How the Aston Martin Vulcan is Built

Developed as a track-only vehicle, the Aston Martin Vulcan is the English automaker's most aggressive model ever. It's home to an array of carbon fiber body panels, a sleek body and a monstrous 7.0-liter V12 engine, all of which combine to create the beast that is the Vulcan.For all of the carbon fiber, mechanics, and styling that have gone into the Vulcan, you'd expect it to be made in a surgery room. And, with that notion, you'd be pretty close to correct.In a video uploaded by Carfection, we get to see the Vulcan throughout multiple stages of its build process in a manufacturing plant that looks so clean, you'd think you could eat off of the floors.If you happen to be interested in buying a Vulcan after watching the video below, don't worry. We have one for sale.Aston Martin Vulcan For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 07, 2015

Listen to the Aston Martin Vulcan Being Unleashed

Vulcans are a logical race, but even Leonard Nimoy would be astounded at the power and soundtrack from Aston Martin's latest V12-powered car: the Vulcan.Aston Martin uploaded YouTube videos showing the Vulcan in action, and the big 7.0-liter V12 doesn't disappoint.It comes with a massive, naturally-aspirated, 7.0-liter V12 engine that produces over 811 hp, and it sounds downright ferocious when unleashed on the track.Watch below as the Vulcan uses the naturally aspirated 12-cylinder to wreak havoc on this unsuspecting track. For more angry Aston-Martins, check Autofluence daily. (Source: YouTube)

By Edward Jones – November 30, 2015

Aston Martin Vulcan Lands in the United States, Takes Ove...

The state of Ohio had a special British visitor of the hyper kind last week, courtesy of Cleveland Motorsports. Donning a fiery exterior, the Aston Martin Vulcan took over the streets around the dealership, showing passersby what the English automaker is capable of.On top of roaming the streets, the Cleveland Motorsports also allowed guests to take a look at the car for themselves, up close. It's a rare occurrence to see the car, let alone be photographed with it, but the dealership created special moments for many automotive enthusiasts.Along with the Vulcan, guests were treated to other Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce and Maserati models. Check out the images below to see the car for yourself, even if you weren't able to make it to their showroom.View InventoryGallery (Source: Cleveland Motorsports)

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