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 Andrew Nabors – January 13, 2021

Bentley's Leading Ladies Power Their "Beyond 100" Strategy

In order to power the second century of a historic automaker, Bentley's leading ladies power their "Beyond 100" strategy. Digital Apprentice Lilly Hulse, Manufacturing Systems Manager Mariam Zahedi and Head of Diversity Anne-Kathrin Altendorf were nominated by their coworkers as inspiring role models. The Inspiring Automotive Women Awards for 2020 is produced by the Automotive 30% Club. Congratulations to this trio for empowering other women in the automotive workforce. Their efforts can be found in every new Bentley for sale, so click the button to find yours. Browse Bentley For Sale Also, if you can't decide between the Continental GT W12 or V8, the Bentayga V8 has been awarded Luxury SUV of the year. Image (C) Bentley Motors

By Andrew Nabors – January 11, 2021

2021 Bentley Bentayga V8 Wins Luxury SUV Of The Year

Leaving the pavement for parts unknown doesn't mean sacrificing quality or comfort. That is why the 2021 Bentley Bentayga V8 has won the Luxury SUV of the year. Our peers at 4x4 Magazine push every 4WD through demanding circumstances and tough trails. 2021 Aston Martin DBX vs 2021 Bentley Bentayga Sponsored by BFGoodrich, a new Bentayga for sale easily conquered water almost 2 ft. deep, and switchbacks with inclines of 35 degrees. The 4WD system uses the brakes to clamp any spinning wheel, sending power to where it counts. You will have a meaty 568 lb-ft of torque at only 1,900 rpm, and 542 horsepower at your command. Along with the new Bentayga Hybrid, you will rest assured you have a capable and comfortable 4WD. Browse Bentley Bentayga For Sale Images (C) Bentley Motors.

By Andrew Nabors – January 07, 2021

Bentley Introduces Digital Commissioning Experience

Even if all the pieces are in front of you, it sometimes takes a visionary to put them in the right spots. In this case, the pandemic forced automakers to rediscover teleconferencing, so Bentley has introduced the digital commissioning experience. Fast Financials 2020 Q4: Bentley’s Best Year Yet Given the expertise of their Mulliner custom shop, every new Bentley for sale has up to 10 billion possible configurations. Being able to express your views to the skilled coachbuilders, your car will arrive with leather, paint, and wood exactly to your liking. Our Bentley dealers are waiting for you, so click the button below to begin your journey. Browse Bentley For Sale Image (C) Bentley Motors

By Andrew Nabors – December 17, 2020

2021 Bentley Flying Spur V8 Gifts Unveiled

Last-minute shopping can be stressful, so we're thankful the 2021 Bentley Flying Spur V8 gifts have been unveiled. Production is underway on their latest sedan, making use of a 4-liter V8 for those that don't need twelve-cylinder power. If your significant other would enjoy having 542 horsepower and 569 lb-ft of torque, these detailed collectibles should be on your list. Choose from a Flying B Paperweight, Letter Opener, Bottle Stopper, Key Case, and two 1:43 scale models of the Flying Spur. Click the button below to order yours and stay with us for all your Bentley news. Shop Here Images (C) Bentley Motors

By Andrew Nabors – December 10, 2020

Bentley Headquarters Goes Green For Cleaner Logistics

Doing any work without releasing carbon is hard to do on Earth. Building luxury cars has been a dirty business since the beginning, and that is why Bentley's headquarters has gone green for cleaner logistics. Their latest press release details the switch from fossil fuels to renewables in and around the assembly plant in Crewe. It is now the first luxury car factory to run all in-house operations on solar or green sources. A massive tank stores wasted vegetable oil that is used to fuel parts trucks, forklifts, and tow motors around the plant. This cuts CO2 emissions by 86% and particulates by 80%. Starting with 10,000 liters a month, employees will now enjoy the smell of french fries while they work. A commitment of this level is evident in every Bentley for sale, so click the button below to find yours. Browse Bentley For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – December 03, 2020

2021 Bentley Continental GT Pike's Peak Limited Edition A...

Contrary to popular belief, General Pike never reached the top of the mountain named after him. With nearly 5,000 feet between base camp and the summit, it takes a formidable car to reach the top. That's why were are delighted to announce the 2021 Bentley Continental GT Pike's Peak Limited Edition has arrived in the U.S. " width="680"> To celebrate the fastest ascent of the ancient monolith, Bentley's Mulliner division has built 15 stunning examples of the W12-powered Continental GT. Five owners opted for the Mountain Event Livery which is seen below. The body is finished in Radium, gloss black, and carbon fiber. Acid green calipers and Pirelli P Zero "Colour Edition" tires wrap the unique 22" wheels. Graphics and embroidery evoke the details of the run, and "100" badges note that this record took place during their anniversary year. If you need the same power and grace in your daily life, click the button below for all the information and stay with us for all your Bentley news. Browse Bentley Continental For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – November 30, 2020

2021 Bentley Lineup Gains Tweed Interior Options

Don't call it a comeback, because Mulliner has never failed to exceed expectations. We are delighted to learn that the 2021 Bentley lineup has gained tweed interior options to satisfy even the most discerning customers. Bentley's artists and craftspeople are regarded by their peers as the best in the world. As such, they have never pulled the vintage fabric from their lineup. But in keeping with the latest in fashion, your new Bentayga, Flying Spur or Continental GT can be adorned with plush English wool. Not only is it sustainable, but the sheep will also thank you for taking the cool off. Click the button below to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Bentley news. Browse Bentley For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – November 19, 2020

2020 Bentley Collection Offers Gifts For All Ages

Don't let Holliday shopping get you down, the 2020 Bentley Collection offers gifts for all ages. Your favorite automaker is hard at work preparing the best in leather, audio, and fashion accessories. Little ones will enjoy a pint-sized Continental GT along with a plush Birkin Teddy Bear. Golfers will enjoy new clubs along with an umbrella and a Holdall bag. If you enjoy pushing your Bentley to the limits, their motorsports division is offering a backpack and water bottle that are perfect for pit road. For the ladies in your life, a stunning jewelry case is available in 2 sizes. We saved the best for last, as Focal headphones were styled after the EXP 100 GT. For those who demand the best in stylish speakers, the Naim For Bentley combines 6 drivers along with HDMI, Apple & Google integration. Click the button below for all the details and stay with us for all your Holliday gifts. Shop Bentley

By Andrew Nabors – November 04, 2020

Bentley's Electric Future Will Be Presented Tomorrow

Only a few years ago we would have laughed at a luxury electric car. But climate change is irrefutable, and so is the push for cleaner transportation. That is why Bentley's electric future will be presented tomorrow. Their latest Beyond 100 film will be live-streamed from Bentley Newsroom at 11 AM Eastern Time. Bentley Offers Over 5,000 Interior Options It will be a press conference from the historic headquarters in Crewe, England. In it, we will see a factory that protects its skilled workforce with over 250 virus-killing safety measures. We will also receive their Q3 sales and profit reports that will echo the unprecedented demand for new luxury cars and SUVs. Chairman & CEO Adrian Hallmark will also host a Q&A session immediately after along with his Board of Managers. Click here to register for the virtual event and then click below for great incentives from our Bentley dealers. As always, we will remain your source for Bentley news. Browse Bentley For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – October 22, 2020

Bentley Offers Over 5,000 Interior Options

The allure of the Continental V8 convertible has been bouncing around my noggin for a few years. Because we specialize in new & pre-owned luxury and exotics, I have had ample time to drive new and older versions of the Continental. Of course, their fit & finish is top-notch, but no two cars are the same. That's because Bentley offers over 5,000 interior options. Our dealers specialize in turning your dreams into a reality, and it starts with details as small as the interior veneers. They can book-match any wood species for open-pore opulence. If you like it glossy, the Piano Veneers can be had in any of the 88 exterior colors, painted by hand and color sanded for decades of brilliance. What's more, the Mulliner custom shop can cut veneers and dash trim from stone, carbon fiber, diamond-cut aluminum or even titanium. Importing slate and quartz from India, it is laser-cut to 0.1mm along the grain to retain its strength. Click the button below to get the process started, you deserve it. Browse Bentley For Sale

Bentley News

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe