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 – 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 – 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

By Andrew Nabors – September 16, 2020

2021 Bentley Continental GT Mulliner Coupe Unveiled At Sa...

Last week we gave you a sneak peek at Europe's hottest car show. Now the festivities are over so we are happy to announce that the 2021 Bentley Continental GT Mulliner Coupe was unveiled at Salon Privé. It is the latest member of their Mulliner Collections Portfolio that also comprises the Continental GT convertible. To set it apart from all lesser models, you must start by choosing from 88 piano veneers. " width="680"> Browse Bentley Continental GT For Sale Built by Mulliner's master coachbuilders, each example is not hindered by the demands of Bentley's normal production constraints. This allows them to take the time necessary to create your masterpiece. No less than 400,000 stitches hold a few acres of leather together. Other exclusive features include the Double Diamond grille, unique 22" Mulliner wheels, and the option for modern, technical finishes inside and out. They are capable of building anything your heart desires, so click the button above to order yours and stay with us for all your Bentley news.

By Edward Jones – August 20, 2020

Bentley Starts Production on the Limited Pikes Peak Conti...

Bentley has just announced that their limited run of the Pikes Peak Continental GT by Mulliner has begun at their factory in Crewe, England. This limited edition model will have just 15 examples produced in total, all of which feature a unique carbon fiber body kit, Radium by Mulliner paint and more. There's also Pikes Peak embroidery on the seat in Radium, Pikes Peak decal on the front fender, and a graphic that shows the track on the passenger-side fascia. For 35 percent of the cars ordered, a unique Mountain Decal Event Livery was chosen which displays the mountains of the track on the sides of the exterior. Why the love for Pikes Peak? It's because a Continental GT set a new record for the track in 2019 and this car is celebrating that momentous event. If you want to celebrate on your own by owning an example this car, you're out of luck because all 15 have already been allocated. See All Continental GTs for Sale

By Edward Jones – July 14, 2020

Rainbow Bentley Continental GT to Enter Pride Event

The first Bentley Continental GT V8 Convertible in a rainbow-theme is set to take part in North West of England's first virtual Pride event. This British luxury sports car has been wrapped in a rainbow design that actually consists of six bespoke paint colors from Bentley. As for the event, Bentley partnered with the Cheshire East Council for this event, which will take place on Saturday, July 25. Bentley notes that this announced celebrates three key themes for their brand: pride, hope and gratitude. “We embraced the opportunity to create our first rainbow car, because rainbows are recognized as an icon for the LGBTQ+ community and Pride events which celebrate individuality and take place around the world during June and July," says Dr. Astrid Fontaine, Bentley’s Member of the Board for People, Digitalisation and IT. See All Bentley Continentals for Sale Source: Bentley Motors

By Andrew Nabors – July 02, 2020

2021 Bentley Continental Receives new Colors and Features

While we are still lamenting over the last Mulsanne, the choice to discontinue the big sedan has allowed engineers and designers to focus on their best seller. The Continental is offered with V8 or twelve-cylinder power, in coupe or convertible bodies. To offer their discerning clientele more than the competition, the 2021 examples will have a few more options to choose from. Next-Generation Bentley Bentayga Revealed Starting with the color palette, the styling department has added Viridian, Patina, and Snow Quartz. You can now choose from 62 exterior colors, or allow their Mulliner custom shop to paint your Continental any shade you desire. In keeping with the latest infotainment and conveniences, a new steering wheel has capacitive sensors under the leather to make sure you are holding it. While that might be a bit annoying, it is a critical part of the semi-autonomous driver assistance systems. Last, but not least, a glass panoramic roof is now optional. It is polarized to eliminate glare, and it has a powered Alcantara blind in the same 15 colors as the headliner. As always, our dealers have all the details, so click the button below and stay with us for all your Bentley news. Browse Bentley Continental For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 28, 2020

Bentley Wins the Opening Round of the E-Sport GT Series

Two weeks ago we reported that Bentley was entering the world of E-Sports. It was a combined effort by K-PAX Racing and SIRIO eSports with Bentley Works driver Jordan Pepper taking first place in the 'Pro' class. No less than 14 examples of the Continental GT3 were on the starting grid. The Silver class is dedicated to professional Sim Drivers, and Alberto Garcia took 4th place. Meanwhile, Bentley Motorsport's rookie Sim Racers: Mike Nobel, Andre Franke, and Jarkko Torvinen finished 17th to 19th. The new Continental is no slouch, so click the button below to experience one in real life. The schedule for the series is posted below, so stay with us for all your Bentley Motorsports news. Browse Bentley Continental For Sale

By Edward Jones – March 06, 2020

Bentley Mulliner Continental GT Convertible Equestrian Ed...

Bentley Mulliner has just unveiled a one-of-a-kind Continental GT Convertible that was inspired by The Cheltenham Festival. What's that? It's the most prestigious event of the horse racing calendar, taking place in the United Kingdom. This vehicle was commissioned by Bentley Bristol and the craftsmen at Bentley Mulliner in Crewe carried out the construction by hand. The opulent interior is graced by sustainable Saddle hide, a Cumbrian Green second hide, gold detailing, straight grain Walnut, Tweed fabric, and precise diamond quilting. Bentley Mulliner also added in a horse and rider silhouette in the cabin. For the exterior, they went with a Spruce paint with the Blackline Specification.

By Edward Jones – February 20, 2020

Ultimate Luxury: Bentley Continental GT Mulliner Converti...

Bentley Motors has just unveiled the new Continental GT Mulliner Convertible, which they're touting as the "luxury pinnacle of the Continental GT family." Behind the creation of this car is Bentley Mulliner, the English automaker's own bespoke division. Bentley Mulliner is actually the oldest automotive coachbuilder in the world. Bentley Mulliner put an amazing amount of care into the creation of this model, and it shows all throughout. A new Double Diamond design can be found on the four seats, door casings, rear quarters and even on the tonneau cover (a first for Bentley). The Diamond-in-Diamond stitching of the interior takes almost 400,000 stitches to complete. On the outside is a muscular design that's complemented by new 22-inch 10-spoke painted and polished wheels with self-leveling wheel badges. Bentley is offering the new Continental GT Mulliner Convertible with eight different three-color combinations for the interior and 61 different paint colors. It will also be offered with both the V8 and W12 engine options. This new model will make its global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show on March 3, 2020. ALL BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – January 28, 2020

Bentley Continental GT Looks Nice on Ice

Ice Racing might seem like a fool's errand, but it is a true test of driver and machine. Racers and manufacturers have been coming to Austria to tackle a frozen lake for years. Yesterday they teased us with their entry, and we must say that the Bentley Continental GT looks nice on ice. Wild Bugatti Veyron Plows Snow & Pulls Skiers In a press release this morning, we've learned the details of a specially-prepped new Bentley Continental GT. Prepped for the GP Ice Races in Zell am See, Dr. Wolfgang Porsche has a perfect viewpoint in his house atop Salzburg. Engineers from all corners of VW Group have brought their most potent hardware, even Bugatti might be getting in on the action. Tell us who you think will win in the comments below and stay with us for all your Bentley news. Browse All Bentley Continental GT For Sale " width="680"> Related: Bentley Continental Supersports Price, Specs & Review

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