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

BMW News

BMW news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated daily with model reveals, first drives, M division launches and electric range developments. Our coverage runs from the 7 Series through the M cars and across BMW's growing electric line-up, alongside the earlier models that still trade strongly. Reporting comes from first-drive access and from the auction results that determine collector values. Many sites carry performance car news, but few carry it beside live inventory. A great many of the BMWs covered here are listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, so a review and an asking price appear together. For BMW news today, and the luxury car news around it, start below.

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By Jordan Aquistapace – August 05, 2024

How To Buy: PUMA x BMW's M Hybrid V8-Inspired Lifestyle C...

PUMA and BMW M Motorsport have launched an all-new collection inspired by the BMW M Hybrid V8 endurance race car. This collaboration brings together classic PUMA styles with bold BMW graphics and performance materials, embodying the essence of modern motorsport engineering. The collection reflects the shift towards an electrified future in motorsport, showcasing fuel-driven pieces that blend style and functionality for race fans and BMW enthusiasts. The collection features a range of apparel, footwear, and accessories, each piece thoughtfully designed with color and material blocking and tonal trims. These characteristics create a sporty yet sophisticated look, highlighting the technological advancements and performance of the BMW M Hybrid V8. The designs are both striking and practical, making them suitable for both motorsport lovers and those looking to elevate their everyday wardrobe. Available at selected PUMA stores and online at puma.com, the PUMA x BMW M Motorsport collection offers a fresh perspective on motorsport fashion. The pieces celebrate the evolving landscape of the sport, embracing innovation and forward-thinking design. Whether you're drawn to the bold aesthetics or the connection to cutting-edge automotive technology, shop the all-new BMW M Hybrid V8-inspired PUMA x BMW Collection by clicking the link below. Shop PUMA x BMW Our Top Picks BMW M Motorsport Statement Hoodie Shop Now BMW M Motorsport LIFE PUMATECH Jacket Shop Now BMW M Motorsport Car Graphic Tee Shop Now BMW M Motorsport Statement Car Tee Shop Now BMW M Motorsport Suede Sneakers Shop Now Source: PUMA

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By Jordan Aquistapace – June 11, 2024

How To Buy: PUMA's New BMW M Motorsport Art Car Capsule C...

For decades, BMW M Motorsport has continued to show off its innovative side through exclusive "Art Cars" that celebrate creative collaborations with some of the world's most renowned artists. From Andy Warhol's BMW M1 to Frank Stella's 1976 BMW 3.0 CSL, every car evokes a style and personality that sets it aside from the collection of colorful, motorsport-inspired sports cars. In collaboration with BMW M Motorsport, PUMA just launched their second capsule collection, honoring the legendary BMW Art Cars. The collection pays tribute to the first BMW Art Car, designed by Alexander Calder. In 1975, Calder reimagined a BMW 3.0 CSL race car into an art canvas, thanks to the vision of a French auctioneer named Hervé Poulain. Poulain's project was both a marketing strategy and an authentic fusion of art and automotive engineering. While the car did not finish the Le Mans 24-hour race, it received significant attention and praise from the motorsport world. The PUMA X BMW M Motorsport Alexander Calder Art Car Capsule Collection offers an exclusive range of clothing and footwear, celebrating the BMW Art Car legacy. The collection includes a shirt, shorts, two tees, a hat, and the iconic PUMA Suedes, all inspired by Calder's vibrant and revolutionary design. This collection not only honors a historic artistic legacy but also supports the ongoing relationship between the worlds of art and automotive design. For race fans, collectors, and enthusiasts, PUMA x BMW M Motorsport's limited-edition BMW Art Car Capsule Collection is now available by clicking the link below. Shop PUMA x BMW M Motorsport PUMA x BMW M MOTORSPORT Calder Cap PUMA Shop Now PUMA x BMW M MOTORSPORT Calder Motorsport Woven Shirt PUMA Shop Now PUMA x BMW M MOTORSPORT Calder Motorsport Woven Shorts PUMA Shop Now PUMA x BMW M MOTORSPORT Suede Calder Sneakers PUMA Shop Now PUMA x BMW M MOTORSPORT Calder Tee PUMA Shop Now PUMA x BMW M MOTORSPORT Calder Tee II PUMA Shop Now Source: PUMA

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 04, 2024

How To Buy: LEGO's New BMW M Hybrid V8 & M4 GT3 Speed Cha...

Ready. Set. Build! LEGO has been the ultimate starter kit for car fans, with a collection of intricate build sets that turn a hobby into a full-blown obsession with all things automotive. As the motor sport season gears up, BMW M Motorsport and LEGO have joined forces to create a new addition to the LEGO Speed Champions series, giving racing enthusiasts and collectors the opportunity to hand-assemble automotive icons. This latest set comes together as a 676-piece set that reveals the replicas of two of BMW M Motorsport’s leading competition cars: the BMW M Hybrid V8 and the BMW M4 GT3. These two race cars are at the forefront of BMW M Motorsport's quest for victory, notably at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2024. Crafted with the same precision as factory cars, these miniature racers showcase authentic BMW M Motorsport paintwork, detailed diffusers, striking exhausts, and dynamic spoilers, alongside intricately designed interiors. Removable roofs enhance playability, allowing the racing driver figures included in the set to take their places in the cockpits, ready for imaginative racing adventures. This new set celebrates nearly a decade of bringing legendary cars to life in LEGO form while extending an invitation to a wider audience to immerse themselves in the excitement of BMW M. Priced at $44.99, the all-new BMW M Hybrid V8 and BMW M4 GT3 set is now available by clicking the link below. Shop Now Source: LEGO

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 13, 2023

BMW Debuts A Special Samsung Smartphone Inspired By The E...

Celebrating the legacy of BMW's M3, this Samsung Galaxy showcases hints from past and current generations. Shaping itself as a timeless automotive icon, the E30 BMW M3 evolved from an ultimate driving machine in the late 80s to a collector-grade sports car that continues to grow in value and popularity. Commemorating its flagship model, BMW Korea is teaming up with SK Telecom to release an exclusive Samsung smartphone with inspiration from the German automaker’s M-Performance division. The limited-edition Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra BMW M Edition pays homage to the first M3 generation released in 1986, featuring a hard cover phone case styled to resemble the hood and kidney grille of the current G80 M3 generation. MUST-READ: Best BMWs For Sale Right Now The M3-inspired Galaxy S23 showcases its loyalty to BMW by presenting a dedicated loading video with an M-specific screen when turned on. The 1,000-unit release features a special E30 BMW M3 die-cast packaging, M design vehicle clock, vehicle sunshade clip, air pump, metal M sticker, historical book, and poster. Accessories include six unique BMW emblems and a multi-keyring to give owners the ability to configure their Samsung smartphone just like a new M3. The Galaxy S23 Ultra BMW M Edition will be available until today through SK Telecom's official online mall. View all current BMW M3 examples for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. Shop Samsung View All BMW M3 For Sale Source: BMW Korea

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 15, 2022

PUMA Motorsport Honors The BMW M4 With An All-New BMW LGN...

Being an active sponsor in the world of automotive racing, PUMA Motorsport prides itself on testing its apparel, footwear, and accessories amongst the best racing drivers on the planet. Working with industry leaders like BMW M Motorsport, the global sports company creates collections inspired by milestone examples from the past, present, and future. PUMA is proud to honor the legacy of BMW M Motorsport with a bold new footwear design. The all-new PUMA BMW LGND sneaker draws inspiration from the BMW M4 Series and the famous Speedcat racing shoe. MUST-READ: The Top 10 Automotive-Inspired Sneakers By Puma Motorsport Available Now The low-cut silhouette incorporates the notorious BMW M colors into its design, subtly hinting at shades of red, blue, and purple. Other noticeable accents on the BMW LGND also point out significant areas of the M4, such as its chrome trim pieces, unique headlight system, and aggressive hood styling. Designed as the perfect everyday sneaker, the PUMA BMW LGND aims to perform on any road or track. The all-new PUMA BMW LGND sneaker will be available online and in select stores soon. Shop all of the BMW M Motorsport collections from PUMA by clicking on the link below. Shop PUMA Motorsport Source: PUMA

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 23, 2022

BMW x GOODS WITH FREUDE Launch An All-New Winter Capsule ...

Establishing itself as “The Ultimate Driving Machine”, BMW’s early involvement in motorsports has allowed the brand to grow and evolve into the industry leader it is today. Having a successful grasp on the automotive world, the German manufacturer is proud to incorporate its processes and values into a line of lifestyle products that accentuate the luxury vehicles they represent. BMW is excited to announce its newest collaboration with the fashion specialists at GOODS WITH FREUDE, featuring a sustainable line of apparel that boasts minimalist design and great versatility. MUST-READ: 2022 BMW M5 CS Review: M Performance At Its Best The winter collection is inspired by a blend of BMW’s M Division and the street art of the US West Coast and lowrider scene. Each example of the exclusive 12-piece capsule collection is made from high-quality, durable, and resource-conserving materials that stick to a timeless color palette. The line includes jackets, sweaters, shirts, pants, hats, and other accessories made to keep you warm during the cold winter months. The all-new BMW x GOODS WITH FREUDE Collection is currently available on BMW’s Lifestyle Website starting at $40. View all current BMW models for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. View All BMW For Sale Source: BMW

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 12, 2022

Kith Celebrates The 50th Anniversary Of BMW's M Division ...

Kith reprises its partnership with automobile brand BMW to create a multi-faceted experience highlighting two redesigned vehicles and a co-branded apparel and accessories collection. Since its partnership began in late 2020, BMW x Kith have created a bridge that directly connects luxury streetwear with the automotive world through shared values and a passion for performance. The dynamic duo is back on-scene to shock enthusiasts once again with another creative collaboration from the mind of Kith founder Ronnie Feig. After announcing the BMW x Kith i4 M50 limited production series, the team of fashion specialists went to work to design an apparel and accessories collection that would pair perfectly with all-electric M series sports car. MUST-READ: BMW x Kith Collaborate With A New BMW i4 M50 Limited To 7 Examples Worldwide The new Kith for BMW Collection celebrates the successful ongoing relationship between both brands, as well as the 50th Anniversary of BMW’s legendary M Division. The head-to-toe line up includes styles featured in darker earth tones as an homage to the early paint and interior finishes offered by the German auto manufacturer. Alongside warm and comfy Fall/Winter outerwear, the release also highlights collectible pieces like baggage, hats, candles, sports gear, home furnishings, vehicle accessories, mugs, sunglasses, and a crystal BMW roundel. Each piece showcases period correct graphics and logos to commemorate the humble beginnings of what now is one o the most successful luxury car brands in the world. The new Kith for BMW Collection is currently available through the Kith website starting at $40. View all current BMW models for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury lifestyle news and releases. VIEW ALL BMW FOR SALE Source: Kith

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 26, 2022

Hot Wheels Celebrates Over 50 Years Of BMW M Motorsports

Starting with its very first BMW model in 1983, Hot Wheels continues to highlight the progression of the automotive manufacturer. Making history on and off the racetrack, BMW’s M Motorsport division continues its legendary heritage with five generations of performance and race cars. The die-cast professionals at Hot Wheels have been celebrating the BMW brand since its first model release in 1983. Hot Wheel’s vast collection of generational icons includes past and present M cars, focusing on models like the M1 and M4. MUST-READ: BMW M Magazine Takes A Look At Ronnie Fieg’s Collection Of Classic And Modern BMWs The most recent addition to the lineup is a brand new Car Culture diorama set that includes the BMW M2, the M3, and the debut brand new casting of the fan-favorite V8-powered E39 M5 sedan. The die-cast set also comes with a commemorative transport truck that sports the signature colors and logos of BMW M Motorsport. View all current BMW inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury lifestyle releases and automotive news. VIEW ALL BMW FOR SALE View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hot Wheels (@hotwheelsofficial) Source: Hot Wheels

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 03, 2022

Shop The New PUMA x BMW M Motorsport 50-Year Autumn/Winte...

PUMA is honoring the legacy from the iconic Le Mans winning ‘Shark Nose’ 3.0 CSL race car, to the very latest BMW M4 GT4. Celebrating 50 years of racing domination, innovation, and creativity, BMW M Motorsport takes a look back on its historic timeline dating back to its beginning in 1972. With a focus on building lightweight performance chassis for on-track competition, BMW achieved success behind the wheel of iconic race cars like the Le Mans winning ‘Shark Nose’ 3.0 CSL. BMW M is proud to commemorate its milestone with a special edition collection in collaboration with its performance apparel partners at PUMA Motorsport. The all-new BMW M Motorsport Autumn/Winter ’22 Collection defines the brand and its forward-thinking on engineering faster, lighter, and more agile sports cars. MUST-READ: McLaren x APL Release The Automotive-Inspired HySpeed Sneaker Collection The creative apparel lineup incorporates the historic red, light blue, and dark blue colors of BMW M, along with logos and graphics that showcase motorsport elements. The collection includes a complete line of t-shirts, hoodies, sweatpants, and jackets sure to rev up interest from all fans of PUMA and BMW M Motorsport. The all-new PUMA x BMW M Motorsport Autumn/Winter ’22 Collection is currently available by clicking on the link below for more information. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury lifestyle news and releases. SHOP PUMA X BMW M MOTORSPORTS Source: PUMA

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 28, 2022

PUMA Motorsports Releases The New BMW M 50 Years Collection

PUMA together with BMW M is celebrating the historic 50th anniversary; with a special edition apparel and footwear collection. As BMW M celebrates 2022 as its 50th Anniversary, the German automotive manufacturer works with its partners at PUMA Motorsport to create a commemorative apparel and accessories collection. Making its start in 1972, BMW began its iconic M Division with the goal of developing a successful race team. BMW M Motorsports helped to evolve the world of automotive racing, as well as the production of faster, light, and more agile road cars. Highlighting its 18-year partnership, PUMA Motorsport is proud to release the all-new BMW M 50-Years Collection. MUST-READ: The New BMW M3 Touring Is Both Practical And Powerful The main focus behind the collection incorporates the iconic BMW M colors, using vibrant red, light blue, and dark blue finishes to style the perfect head-to-toe fit for any enthusiast. Each piece part of the special collection includes the 50 Jahre badge, which defines the brand’s historic lineage in the road car business and motorsport activities. From the iconic Le Mans-winning ‘shark nose’ 3.0 CSL race car, to the very latest BMW M4 GT4, any BMW M badged car is simply synonymous with performance worldwide. The BMW M 50-Years Collection features a performance jacket, celebration t-shirts for women and men, a unisex hoodie, and a baseball cap. Along with the clothing line, PUMA x BMW M also includes a Blaze of Glory sneaker with patented Trinomic technology and a 3D printed metallic BMW and M logo. Shop the all-new PUMA Motorsports BMW 50-Years Collection and all other PUMA x BMW M collaboration pieces by clicking on the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury gear releases and BMW M news. SHOP PUMA MOTORSPORT X BMW M Source: PUMA Motorsports

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