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

Bentley News

Bentley news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated as each story breaks, covering the Continental GT, the Bentayga, the Flying Spur and Mulliner's bespoke commissions. Our reporting takes in model reveals, first drives and the auction results that establish what these cars are worth. Bentley Motors news tends to move slowly and matter for years, so we follow how values hold across a generation. This is where the marketplace becomes useful. Many of the Bentleys covered here are listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, placing the reporting and a genuine asking price side by side. For Bentley news today, and the luxury car market news that surrounds it, begin below.

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 27, 2023

Bentley's Final Mulsanne Joins The Prestigious Bentley Mo...

Bentley Motors has announced an exceptional addition to its Heritage Collection: the bespoke 2020 Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase, the final Mulsanne crafted at Bentley's Dream Factory in Crewe. This bespoke luxury build has the unique honor of having served the Royal household and was commissioned for Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The last Mulsanne showcases an array of bespoke features befitting royal duties. Its exterior, finished in solid Barnato green, pairs perfectly with an interior adorned in Twine and Cumbrian hide, complemented by Burr Walnut wood veneers and plush lambswool carpets. Tailored to royal standards, the Mulsanne features rear privacy curtains, the Royal coat of arms inlaid into the door waist rails, and a custom tray for the Queen’s handbag. Discreetly installed are blue police lights, a siren, and a bullhorn, with a hidden switch panel tucked behind a walnut-veneered door. Under the hood, the iconic 530 horsepower 6.75L V8 engine powers the Mulsanne, with 21” alloy wheels and chrome brightware accents. This esteemed vehicle joins two other Mulsannes in Bentley's Heritage Collection, including the second-ever built Mulsanne (VIN 0002 from 2010) and a 2019 Mulsanne Speed from Bentley’s press fleet. These form part of a 45-car collection that tells the story of Bentley's 104-year history. The Mulsanne's legacy began with its launch at Pebble Beach in 2009. The car underwent significant upgrades in 2016, including a redesigned interior and exterior, elevating luxury standards. The Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase, introduced the same year, provided exceptional rear-seat luxury with its extended footprint. The Mulsanne's production journey concluded in 2020 with the '6.75 Edition by Mulliner', celebrating the end of over six decades of its 6.75-litre engine production. With over 7,300 handcrafted units, the Mulsanne leaves a lasting legacy in Bentley's storied history. Bentley's Heritage Collection, showcasing 104 years of automotive excellence, includes legendary models and record-breaking vehicles, all maintained and displayed at Bentley’s carbon-neutral Dream Factory in Crewe. This collection is accessible to customers, VIPs, media guests, and Bentley colleagues, offering an immersive journey through Bentley's celebrated past. View all Bentley Mulsanne examples currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Bentley Mulsanne For Sale Source: Bentley Motors

By Andrew Nabors – April 01, 2020

Bentley Mulsanne Team Reflects on Their Achievements

An old friend will say goodbye as soon as England gets back to work. Because their flagship sedan is heading into the sunset, the Bentley Mulsanne team reflects on their achievements. If this was a normal car, the assembly line workers would simply move on to the next model. However, these lucky few are skilled coachbuilders and artists have put their lives into each example of "The Grand Bentley".Their efforts can be seen in over 7,300 examples, as each requires over 400 hours to build. Click the button below to find a new one before they are gone forever, and stay with us for all your Bentley news. Browse All Bentley Mulsanne For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – February 17, 2020

Bentley Mulsanne 6.75 Edition Is the End of an Era

Only 30 Cars To Be Produced Final Production Bentley Mulsanne Flying Spur To Replace Mulsanne This Year Bentley has a slough of hybrid models in the pipeline, but it won't include a new Bentley Mulsanne for sale. Their handbuilt flagship has been powered by the 6.75L V8, which was first introduced in 1959. To give her a proper sendoff, Mulliner was commissioned for a limited run. That's why the Bentley Mulsanne 6.75 Edition is the end of an era. The press release included the finer details of interior and exterior distinction. It also mentions their engine is the longest V8 to be in continuous production, even though the Chevrolet small-block is 4 years older. We're sad to see her go, but it will free up workers who are building Bentley's future. Our dealers are ready to place your order, so click the link below to find a new Mulsanne for sale. Browse All Bentley Mulsanne For Sale

By Edward Jones – January 14, 2020

Bentley Mulsanne 6.75 Edition Is a "Goodbye" for the Sedan

Bentley Motors is sending off the Mulsanne is a very limited and final edition called the Mulsanne 6.75 Edition by Mulliner. Only 30 examples of this Bentley sedan will be created, but it will be a hot ticket as it's the model's swan song. Replacing the Mulsanne as the automaker's flagship model will be the Flying Spur. What makes the Mulsanne 6.75 Edition by Mulliner stand out are features found both inside and outside the sedan. On the outside is gloss black brightware and whatever paint the customer chooses. Unique 6.75 Edition motif can be found on the seats, as exterior badges and even the LED Welcome Lamps project the motif. The engine bay also features a black intake manifold instead of the standard silver. On the dashboard, the faces of the clock and minor gauges show schematic cutaway drawings of the engine. SEE ALL BENTLEY MULSANNES FOR SALE

Mulsanne W.O. Edition by Mulliner Key Case (1)

By Edward Jones – July 22, 2019

Bentley Mulsanne W.O. Edition Owners Get a Very Special Key

Are you going to be the owner of a new Bentley Mulsanne W.O. Edition by Mulliner? Then you're going to be getting an incredible key to go with your new limited edition Mulsanne. Bentley has shown off the new key case that accompanies the Mulsanne W.O. Edition. It comes with items meant to celebrate the British automaker's 100th anniversary. Items include a bespoke 1:18 model of W.O.'s personal 8 Liter car (the car that the new limited edition Mulsanne was designed after), a flying "B" paperweight, three keys and a brochure that has never-seen-before images of the 1930 8 Liter. The case itself is crafted out of the same Dark Stained Burr Walnut and Piano Black veneer found in the cabin of the Bentley Mulsanne W.O. Edition by Mulliner. Bentley also engraved the years "1919-2019" on the outside to mark the special occasion. see all bentley mulsannes for sale

By Edward Jones – July 12, 2018

Bentley Mulsanne W.O. Edition by Mulliner Limited to 100

On July 10, 2018, Bentley Motors started their 100th year and they are now counting down the days until their centenary in 2019. To celebrate, Bentley is starting things off with a very special car. Called the Mulsanne W.O. Edition by Mulliner, this exclusive car pays homage to W.O. Bentley, the founder of the company. Bentley Bentayga Breaks SUV Record At Pike's PeakCustomers can order the Mulsanne W.O. Edition spec for any of the three models in the Mulsanne range. Features include a split interior made from Heritage Hide, Beluga black wheels, a cocktail cabinet or bottle cooler where the slice of crankshaft is located, and more.Bentley Motors will be showing off the Bentley Mulsanne W.O. Edition by Mulliner at Monterey Car Week in August. Customer deliveries are set for 2019.View All Bentleys for Sale

By Edward Jones – March 01, 2016

Bentley Mulsanne Grand Limousine By Mulliner

If a regular Bentley Mulsanne wasn't luxurious enough for you (even though it really should be) the English automaker has now revealed the Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner.It comes in one meter and 79 mm longer than the standard Mulsanne, pushing right into a limousine length. Taking up the extra space is a unique interior that is complete with private-aviation style seating configuration for the ultimate luxury drive. These four seats are surrounded by a fine wood, leather and space to move into.Of course, no limousine would be complete without a slew of features that make life in a Bentley that much better. These features include iPad charging and docking stations, veneered fold-out tables, a bottle cooler with crystal flutes, an intercom used to communicate with the driver and a soft drink cabinet with bespoke glasses.If you've ever wanted to be driven in the next level of luxury, check out the new Bentley Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner.Bentley Mulsannes For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – February 23, 2016

Revealed: The New Bentley Mulsanne

Dubbed "the ultimate expression of British automotive luxury," Bentley Motorcars debuted the brand new Mulsanne-- the company's "ultimate statement of craftsmanship and automotive artistry." The Mulsanne family now includes three models: Mulsanne Mulsanne Speed Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase Each model hails it's own special features, which sets the Mulsanne family apart from the rest. The new Mulsanne underwent a series of changes that are sure to make the luxury mobile stand out from it's former edition. As Benley states:A suite of elegantly executed styling revisions mark the new Mulsanne out from its predecessor. The entire front-end style of the car (forward of the A pillar) has been completely redesigned. The fenders, bonnet, radiator shell, grilles, lights – and bumpers fore and aft – have all been updated, giving the car a more modern and integrated appearance.On the inside, occupants will of course find the world’s finest handcrafted wood, leather and metal fittings, and the new Mulsanne also boasts redesigned seats, new door trims and armrests, unique glass switchgear and an industry-leading palette of 24 exquisite hide colours. Technology enhancements also mark an important change for the new Mulsanne. The interior is fitted with tablets powered by Android for the back seat passengers. They'll have full access to apps like Skype and Google play. Each tablet can also be removed and used away from the vehicle.As for power, the new Mulsanne will feature a 6¾-litre V8 which produces 505 bhp and 752 lb.-ft of torque. The car will reach a top speed of 184 and sail from 0-60 in 5.1 seconds.Check out the photos of the redesigned Mulsanne below.Bentley Mulsanne for Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – February 09, 2016

Bentley Announces Mulsanne Beluga Edition by Mulliner

Mulliner, Bentley's right hand and in-house coachbuilder, just released its exclusive bespoke features for the Flying Spur, but they aren't done yet. Mulliner has a new work of art to share and this one is for those that like subtle, yet powerful and iconic look. Introducing the Bentley Mulsanne Beluga by Mulliner. But before we look at Mulliner's features, let's check out what makes the Mulsanne so special.Bentley Mulsanne Specs Engine: 6.75-liter V8 Horsepower: 530 hp Torque: 811 lb-ft torque 0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds To compliment the incredible power of the Beluga, Mulliner added a few interior and exterior features, including "a dark tinted Flying B with subtle laser-etched 'Beluga Edition' engraving". The Beluga is finished in a sleek black paint with five-spoke black wheels. The car is also adorned with steel sill plates to commemorate the speed edition. The plates are aptly engraved with "Speed". This true piece of art is perfectly suited for the driver that prefers a stealthy, understated look still capable of commanding attention.Check out photos of the exclusive features below. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.Bentley Mulsanne For Sale

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