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 – October 04, 2022

Bentley Beverly Hills Commissions Three Hollywood-Inspire...

The special series includes three unique Continental GTC Speed configurations that take design inspiration from the Golden Age of Hollywood. The history embedded in the streets of Beverly Hills comes with generations of artistic inspiration, thanks to the 1920s and the Golden Age of Hollywood. Celebrating the Art Deco era, the luxury automotive professionals at Bentley Beverly Hills are proud to showcase three magnificent Continental GTC Speed commissions from the designers at Mulliner. The 99-year partnership between Bentley and Mulliner creates an unmatched configuration experience that gives each client complete control when building their dream car. All models include the Styling, Touring, and City packages and to commemorate Hollywood’s golden era, the words ‘The Beverly Hills’ are etched in a 30s font on the illuminated sill plate. MUST-READ: 2023 Bentley Bentayga EWB First Drive Review: More Than Meets The Eye The first Beverly Hills special edition Continental GTC Speed presents a vibrant Jetstream II Blue finish that also makes an appearance on its 22-inch 10-spoke wheels. The interior design layers Linen and Imperial Blue hide in a stunning diamond pattern with white contrast stitching. A high gloss Piano Linen and Imperial Blue dual veneer illuminates the cabin as it stretches across the entire dashboard. The second build features a similar specification as the Jetstream II Blue but instead showcases a pastel tone of Sage Green as its base layer. The dual-tone interior splits between Cumbrian Green and Linen, which translates to the veneer dash and waist rails. Completing the trio of Continental GTC Speeds is a Hollywood Blush Pink model that boasts a pristine Linen interior with Deep Red Cricketball as the secondary contrast. The Beverly Hills Collection shows what can be achieved through the Mulliner personal commissioning process. View all of the current Bentley Continental GTC Speed examples for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. VIEW ALL BENTLEY GTC SPEED FOR SALE Source: Bentley Motors

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 28, 2022

Bentley Motors Showcases The New Batur At Chantilly Arts ...

European debut of breath-taking Bentley Mulliner Batur took place at Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille. After announcing the date and location of its official European debut, Bentley Motors is proud to attend the Chantilly Arts & Elegance 2022 event with its new limited-production Batur. The prestigious celebration welcomes attendees to the beautiful grounds of historic Château de Chantilly, just north of Paris, France. The grand touring coupe is limited to only 18 examples and is the perfect introduction to the start of Bentley’s design revolution. MUST-READ: Bentley’s New Mulliner Batur Monterey Car Week Debut Starts A Design Revolution For The Brand Alongside the Batur, Bentley also commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Continental by having a post-war 1953 R-Type and 1958 S 1 Continental as part of its display. Bentley’s stunning attraction was designed in collaboration with Paris fashion house Balmain, who provided a male and female model to chaperone the seven-figure Batur in signature tailored suits. Being the perfect place to launch its most powerful vehicle in history, Bentley Motors felt at home for the sixth edition of the exclusive event. View all current Bentley inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury lifestyle and automotive news. VIEW ALL BENTLEY FOR SALE Source: Bentley Motors

By Tyler Rampersaud – August 22, 2022

Bentley X The Macallan Reveal A New The Macallan Horizon ...

Bentley and its very famous whisky partner come together for something unique. Bentley is one of the world’s most iconic names in automotive luxury, and when Bentley partnered with a whisky brand, it needed a partner that was on equal footing in its own industry, which is why it turned to The Macallan. Both brands are known worldwide for combining futuristic innovation with respected and honored tradition to create timelessly exquisite products like The Macallan’s famous single malt whisky and Bentley’s incredible cars. MUST READ: Bentley Brings Out The Speed 8 Race Car At Laguna Seca To Celebrate 100 Years Of Le Mans The two brands came together as part of Bentley’s enormous presence at Monterey Car Week, and now they are coming together yet again to create something unique, their first product collaboration as partnered brands, a single malt whisky called The Macallan Horizon. The new design of the vessel for this whisky has been revealed, and it perfectly exemplifies both brands’ innovation, sustainability, and commitment to true luxury. The luxurious horizontal packaging that holds the hand-made glass bottle with a 180-degree twist pays homage to The Macallan’s famous Six Pillars that guide the brand by using six different sustainable materials including the glass that play an important role in both brands. These are: recycled copper from spirit stills coming from The Macallan’s former distillery, aluminum from Bentley’s production lines, recycled wood from both brands, and the world’s lowest CO2 leather, which comes from Scotland and is also used in Bentley’s new Bentley Mulliner Batur. The final piece of the puzzle is the whisky itself, and as it stands, the entire project is set to launch in the summer of next year, and when it does, the world of luxury will be changed forever. View All Bentleys For Sale Source: Bentley

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 21, 2021

Shop The New Bentley Motors Lifestyle Collection For The ...

The Bentley Collection offers new products in time for the festive season - joining iconic and popular pieces from the existing range. With the holidays quickly approaching, automotive brands are working at the bits to prep for the busy season. While most are focusing on getting vehicles on dealership lots, Bentley Motors is directing its resources to the new Lifestyle Collection. The Bentley Lifestyle Collection features an array of luxury products that checks off everyone in the family. Bentley incorporates a line of premium apparel and leather goods including, baggage, luggage tags, wallets, polos, hats, ties, and scarves. MUST-READ: Shop The New Bentley Spring ’21 Accessory Collection For the young automotive enthusiasts of the family, the collection features realistic die-cast models, strollers, and balance bikes. Alongside the perfect picks for the family, the Bentley Collection features the Naim for Bentley Mu-so special edition at-home speaker. This holiday season, Bentley is here to help cross some of the items off your wish list. Shop the new Bentley Lifestyle Collection for the holiday seasons by clicking the link below. Shop The Bentley Lifestyle Collection Media Source: Bentley Motors

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 25, 2021

Damson Idris Arrives To The ACS Show By Mr. Porter In A B...

There’s no better feeling than showing up to an event in style, and that is exactly how British actor Damson Idris felt pulling up to the ACS Show in a green Bentley Flying Spur V8. Bentley is proud to support The ACS Show, a new monthly online radio show hosted by Emmanuel Lawal and Ashton Gohil, in partnership with Mr. Porter. The direct correlation between fashion and the automotive world is much greater than most think, using design to help portray the vision while staying unique. Bentley’s vehicle lineup covers a vast variety of driving experiences, from track-focused performance to full-size commuters for the family. Mr. Porter acts under a similar process, providing individuals with luxury apparel and accessories for all individuals. Shop all products from Mr. Porter by clicking the link below. Shop Mr. Porter Image Source: Bentley Media For more Bentley news, Check out Bentley Mulliner Visualizer Is The Ultimate Configurator

By Edward Jones – January 22, 2020

Bentley and Bomber Introduce New "Ski and Drive" Experiences

Bentley Motors and Bomber Ski has just announced a new "ski and drive" event from March 4-9, 2020. So what exactly is a ski and drive event? First, it's called the Bomber for Bentley Ski & Drive Experience and it will be taking place at Telluride, Colorado and Park City, Utah. The press release detailing the new collaborative event says it will "provide one-of-a-kind ski and drive experiences for customers combining adventure with fine-dining, ultimate luxury and relaxation." Bentley Skis are Coming Just in Time for Winter The trip will start off at the Lumière with Inspirato property in Telluride. Then, the guests will take a trip on private aircraft over to the Montage Deer Valley in Park City. What's more, six-time Olympic medallist and five-time World Champion skier Bode Miller will be on-hand to help guests take their skiing to the next level. For more info, click here. SEE ALL BENTLEYS FOR SALE " width="680">

By Edward Jones – February 10, 2017

Smell Like a Bentley (Not Really) With New Fragrance

Bentley announced today their brand-new fragrance called Momentum. The English automaker notes that "Bentley Momentum meets the same exacting standards as Bentley cars." The fragrance was created by Nathalie Lorson, a renowned master perfumer.(2018 Bentley Continental Supersports Confirmed)In Bentley's press release for the new fragrance, they went really in-depth when it comes to how it smells: "As the fragrance opens, a splash of aquatic notes energises sparkling bergamot and cool green violet. In contrast to this refreshing style, clary sage adds herbaceous, aromatic accents, hinting at the sensuous warmth that unfolds in the heart notes. Gaining momentum, the scent segues into a strikingly modern accord of ambergris and cashmere wood, evoking clean, sun-warmed skin and polished wood. The dry-down reveals a deep, burnished blend of smooth sandalwood and dusky tonka bean, in a sensuous trail of musk and moss."Can't say I've ever had a fragrance "gain momentum" on myself.Bentley Momentum comes in two different intensities: Bentley Momentum Eau de Toilette and Bentley Momentum Intense Eau de Parfum. As far as prices go, it lays out like this: Bentley Momentum EDT, 100 ml; Euro 82.00; £59.00 (~$87) Bentley Momentum Intense EDP, 100 ml; Euro 89.00; £69.50 (~$94) Bentley Momentum Intense EDP, 60 ml; Euro 68.00; £49.00 (~$72) Bentley Momentum Hair and Body Shampoo, 200 ml; Euro 27.00; £24.00 (~$28) Bentley For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – June 28, 2016

Golf in Style with Bentley's New Golf Collection

Quality and luxury embody everything Bentley touches, and the brand's golf collection fits right into that realm. In fact, the company speaks of it's new golf line as the union of, "luxury and performance with the finest in sports and leisure." Bentley partnered with industry leaders, Professional Golf Europe, to create the ultimate set for the golfing aficionado. Clubs, bags and accessories have been meticulously designed and manufactured. The set includes some unique features like irons hand-forged in Ichikawa, Japan, an area with a long and prosperous history in metal working. Bentley inspired detailing and styling is seen in all facets of the golf sets, from the bags to the accessories.Bentley owners and fans will notice detailing from a number of different Bentley models within the collection as well. The famous rear arch of the Continental GT and the curves of the Mulsanne are apparent in the design of the clubs and accessories. The clubs, made to suit the novice or professional golfer, include "high performance steel and graphite shaft options" as well as desired flex options based on the golfer's experience. Additionally, buyers can choose their driver's loft option, which comes in 9, 10.5 and 12 degree. Bags include waterproof fabrics to optimize use and wear. Even their leather bag option is waterproof inside and out. As for accessories, golfers can complete their new Bentley collection with "Sterling Silver Golf Ball Marker and Pitch Fork featuring Bentley knurling to give an overriding feel of luxury." Other accessories include bag towels, umbrellas, golf tees and more.The golf collection will be available for sale in September 2016, in select golf retailers. Customers can also purchase from http://www.bentleygolf.com/

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