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 – April 17, 2020

Bentley Uploads Birkin Blower Continuation Series Configu...

Last year we mention big news from Bentley. A small team a Mulliner's classic division is planning to build a dozen new examples of the classic 4-1/2 liter "Blower Bentleys". Not only is it the world's first continuation series of pre-war cars, it represents how loved these cars are by Bentley's faithful fans. The problem with finding an original pre-war Bentley is that a certain lead singer of AC/DC buys every example that is put up for sale. We applaud Brian Johnson for his exquisite taste, and that he routinely drives them around his home in Sarasota. Thankfully the 12 new cars have already been spec'ed by their owners, as Bentley uploaded a Birkin Blower Continuation Series Configurator. None of us were chosen to purchase one, so here are some shots from their latest press release. The story of Sir Tim Birkin and his racing Bentleys is amazing automotive history, so we'll cover it at a later date. Meanwhile, click the button below to find a new Bentley and have a great weekend. Browse Bentley For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – April 10, 2020

2021 Bentley Flying Spur Offers Touch Screen Remote Controls

Luxury sedans can present a tough question for their owners. Is it better to drive or be driven? For those with the means to have a driver, the rear passengers are often treated to the utmost luxuries. While leather and wood are to be expected, the 2021 Bentley Flying Spur offers touch screen remote controls. While it is normally mounted between the front seats, it can be detached if you don't want other passengers to change your settings. The display is 1280 x 720 pixels, and every input offers haptic feedback. Onboard apps include a 3-axis accelerometer, navigation, climate control, weather, and the 22-speaker sound system. If your car doesn't have anything like this, click the button below and stay with us for all your Bentley news. Browse Bentley Flying Spur For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 07, 2020

Bentley's Metallurgists Push Alloys to the Limit

The process seems simple to most automakers. Steel and aluminum arrive at the factory, and in a few hours a new car emerges. When it comes to building an icon of luxury motoring, many other variables come into focus. From the age of Alchemy into the modern era, scientists have studied the properties of mixing metals to achieve better tolerances and strength. That is why Bentley's metallurgists push alloys to the limit. We get a glimpse behind the scenes in their most recent press release. A team of 26 dedicated engineers subject -completed parts to scrutiny down to +/- 0.15 mm (thinner than a hair). The latest in laser and 3D modeling come together in a climate controlled lab. Temperature is kept constant to +/- 0.5 Celsius (0.9 degrees F). These conditions are used to test incoming raw materials along with random samples from the plant floor. Everything from brake rotors to the door latch is measure then dissected to make sure it is of the best quality. This is what separates Bentley from their competitors, and that is why you should find one for yourself by clicking the button below. Stay with us for all your Bentley news. Browse All Bentley For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – April 06, 2020

Design Your own Bentley Bacalar

Henry Jervis Mulliner began building custom coaches in 1897. Although they were only rated for 1 horse power (horse not included) they were opulent carriages inside and out. Now after 123 years, Mulliner is about to undertake their most ambitious project. As the custom shop for Bentley, they accepted the challenge of building a dozen cars. Each one priced at nearly $2 Million dollars, here is how to design your own Bentley Bacalar. Bentley Mulliner Bacalar Unveiled: Limited to 12 Examples We've learned the intricate details in their latest press release. Because each car will be custom-built "down to the last stitch", Mulliner has offered six virtual examples of what they are capable of. No detail is too small or inconsequential. If you have been chosen to be part of the 12 lucky owners, the team will help you visualize your perfect car. I offered to pay cash, but my American Flag Bacalar was rejected. Nevertheless, you can design your own with their "design-your-own Bacalar competition" on Twitter. Winners will have their car shared across Bentley's Social Media accounts to showcase your abilities. Click the link here to design your own, or browse our dealers for your new Bentley in the button below. Browse All Bentley For Sale

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 Andrew Nabors – December 03, 2019

Bentley Continental GT Pike's Peak Limited to 15 Examples

What does it take to conquer the world's most brutal hill climb? According to the record books, you need twelve cylinders and two turbochargers. To celebrate being the fastest production car up the mountain, the Bentley Continental GT Pike's Peak is limited to 15 examples. Each car will receive bespoke carbon fiber accents and Radium paint by Mulliner. The same livery used on the race car also includes gloss black accents and green calipers. An optional "100 Grille" celebrates 2019 as their centenary year, and the celebration continues inside. References to the record time of 10:18.488 can be seen in graphics and in stitching, with a map of the track embossed on the dash. What is not optional is the 12-cylinder hammer under the hood. Browse All Bentley Continental GT For Sale It sends 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque to all wheels. If you want to join the celebration, click the button above to find our dealer near you and stay with us for all your Bentley news. " width="680"> Related: Bentley Continental Supersports: Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Andrew Nabors – October 23, 2019

Bentley Apprentices Rebuild 1923 Engine

Before you go trying to rebuild your engine, take a look at what Bentley has accomplished. Engine # 212 was originally installed in Chassis 209 before heading to a coachbuilder for a custom body. As part of their 100th anniversary, Bentley Apprentices rebuilt the 1923 engine, It has been on display at the Royal Artillery School for 70 years, so it needed almost everything. Pistons, rods, valves, and the crank were either polished or replaced, and the head was decked with modern CNC machines. Browse Bentleys For Sale Learning to pour babbitt bearings and fitting new piston rings is a skill every enthusiast needs, so we're a bit jealous of this restoration. Click the link below to browse new Bentleys with new engines, and tell us your favorite rebuild story in the comments below. Related: Jay Leno Tests the 2020 Bentley Continental GT V8 Bentley Bentayga Stetson Debuts in Texas

By Andrew Nabors – September 09, 2019

Bentley Continental GT V8 Announced

Refinement never sleeps at Bentley. The third-generation Continental GT has been a runaway success for the brand, and it offers something for almost anyone. If you enjoy the incredible power of the W12 engine, you can now order it with a panoramic glass roof. Carbon fiber has been added to the interior trim choices, which pushes the configurator past 7 billion possible combinations. Those now include an engine option, as the Bentley Continental GT V8 was announced yesterday. Browse Bentley Continental GT For Sale Available to order as a coupe or convertible, it offers the same 4.0L twin-turbo V8 from the base-model Bentayga. It is rated at 550 metric horsepower with 568 lb-ft of torque. It is more than enough to reach 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, with the convertible taking 0.1 second more. Capable of cruising at 198 mph, it can also run on 4 cylinders when full power isn't needed. This V8 was engineered by Porsche for the Cayenne and Panamera, and it can also be found in the Lamborghini Urus. It sips fuel when the turbos aren't spinning, offering more range and efficiency than its competitors. Click the link above to learn more from your local dealer, and stay with us for all your Bentley News. " width="680"> Related: Bentley Continental GT Onboard Video from Pike's Peak 2018 Bentley Continental Supersports: Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Andrew Nabors – August 01, 2019

Celebrate Bentley's Centenary With Their new Eyewear

Bentley is not known for doing anything halfway, and that ethos carries over into their accessories. If you put the top down on your Continental GT, it would be embarrassing to arrive wearing cheap glasses. Our friend Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top implies just such a scenario in their hit song "Cheap Sunglasses". As part of the brand's 100th anniversary, you can now celebrate Bentley's Centenary with their new eyewear. Which Bentley Frame Speaks To You? Starting off with a retro style, the Keyhole Bridge Pantos is an acetate frame with titanium hardware. Palladium Plating Lightweight acetate and titanium Made in Japan Lens width: 49mm Bridge width: 20mm Arm length: 143mm Presented in a black Bentley eyewear case and gift box Next up are the Classic Round Sunglasses. They make a conservative statement in rose gold plated titanium. Choose between pink or brown lenses, both have100% UV protection. Rose gold plated beta-titanium 58mm (width), 17mm (bridge), 140mm (arm) In Brown or Pink tinted lens 100% UV Protection No collection would be complete without Aviators, so the Centenary Aviators are their most anticipated design. The gold plated titanium incorporates the knurled patterns found in Bentley interiors, along with the iconic "B" logo. Available in Small (size 59) and Large (size 61) frames. Finest luxury gold plated titanium eyewear produced for the Bentley Centenary Polarized lenses 59mm (width), 15mm (bridge), 135mm (arm) / 61mm (width), 15mm (bridge), 135mm (arm) Of course, the best place to find these is at your local Bentley Dealer. If you haven't driven the new Continental GT, words can't express the perfection it conveys. So click the link below to find one near you and stay with us for all your Bentley Anniversary news. Find Your New Bentley Continental GT Here " width="680"> Related: Bentley Flying Spur First Edition sells BIG for Charity Bentley EXP 100 GT Unveiled Live

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