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.

By Edward Jones – February 16, 2017

BMW and LEGO Create Insane Hover Bike Concept

It doesn't matter how old you are, building LEGO sets will always be fun. Take it from me and my multiple car sets resting on my desk right now. It's therapeutic and nostalgic to take a lump of bricks and turn it into a creation that either you thought of or instructions helped you create. And while I may have built some pretty awesome LEGO creations over the years, I've never had one turned into a full-size replica. This is why the BMW Hover Ride Design Concept is so special.The LEGO Technic BMW R 1200 GS Adventure is a fantastic model kit, but the designers at LEGO Technic and BMW decided to take it a step further. To provide an alternative build for this kit, as is common for the 2-in-1 kits. In the end, they created the Hover Ride Design Concept.“It was a great idea and a superb creative challenge to develop a fictitious model from the parts of the LEGO Technic BMW R 1200 GS Adventure set. Our concept not only incorporates the BMW Motorrad design DNA with typical elements such as the boxer engine and the characteristic GS silhouette, it also draws on the LEGO Technic stylistic idiom,” says Alexander Buckan, Head of BMW Motorrad Vehicle Design.Sure, the kit is neat and all, but what's really great is that the two companies decided to make a full-size replica out of the Hover Ride Design Concept. BMW had their second to fourth-year trainees use actual production parts used for the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure to create the life-size replica. This even includes a front-wheel rim that was modified to form a propeller.BMW For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – February 03, 2017

BMW Unveils i8 Protonic Frozen Editions

Protons are located in the nucleus of almost every atom, so they like to be the center of attention. To be formally released at the Geneva Auto Show, the Protonic Frozen Black Edition will arrive in matte black with glossy accents. BMW has offered frozen finishes through the Individual program for several years producing the best matte finish in the industry. The graceful curves of the i8 are made possible by a body of carbon fiber. It will be visible for miles when covered in Protonic Frozen Yellow.If you have not experienced the i8, its nothing short of amazing. With an electric range of 15 miles, you will have 76 MPGe at your disposal. Efficiency doesn't diminish the BMWs performance, as 420 lb-ft of torque and 357 hp make for incredible acceleration. It comes with a home charger that is capable of 240v or 120v operation. The gas engine is a 1.5 liter inline three cylinder with a single turbo. A futuristic cockpit is very low, but being close to the center of gravity and the yaw axis makes cornering very fun. Take a look at these new color options and let us know what you think in the comments below.All BMW i8 For Sale

By Edward Jones – December 21, 2016

BMW 1M Coupe with V10 Engine Swap Rips Apart Tires

BMW fans have all found themselves looking online to see where they could buy a 1M. Unfortunately, these cars are hard as heck to find in the United States, and instead the 128i's are picked up in place of the 1M.However, one owner of a 1M decided the car needed more power and did something crazy: dropped a big engine in the car. The engine used was BMW's S85 5.0-liter V10 engine pulled from an M5 E60. That means this littler two door car was housing 550 horsepower, making it one of the most exciting 1-Series I've ever seen.NM3355 was on hand while the car was drifting around a track and absolutely destroying its tires. Check out the video below to see just how intense this little car is. And also be sure to let us know what your dream engine swap would be in the comments below!All BMW 1-Series For Sale

By Edward Jones – November 08, 2016

Is the BMW M240i Actually Faster than the M2?

At the dealership, there are two main differences between the BMW M2 and M240i: price. The starting MSRP for the M240i is set at $44,450, while the M2 has a starting MSRP of $51,700. But, does the $7,250 difference in price translate to a faster drive? AutoTopNL set out to find the answer to this question.(Related - Who Wins? Porsche 718 Cayman S vs BMW M2)Underneath the hood of the M2 is a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that's capable of 365 hp and 343 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds.As for the M240i, it also has a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, but its power is rated at 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, and has a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds.While the M2 has more horsepower, the M240i has a high torque rating. Along with this, the M2 can sprint from 0-60 mph 0.3 seconds quicker. But what about the top end of each of these cars? Honestly, the video below was pretty surprising. Check it out to see how they performed when unleashed on the autobahn.All BMW For Sale

By Edward Jones – October 13, 2016

Justice Quickly Served to Impatient BMW Driver

The ability to be patient is a blessing, especially when you're on the road. Let's face it, rushing to get to your destination can put yourself and others in the way of danger. Well, it looks like the driver of this BMW learned the hard way that rushing through a yellow light can lead to disaster.(Related - BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100: Minority Report Meets Real Life)Uploaded to YouTube and recorded by way of dashcam is a video of a BMW driver who got a little too overzealous when taking a left-hand turn. The first sign of trouble was when the BMW tried to cut off the recording driver by way of driving through the hatched road markings. Well, those road markings were there on purpose, because only the one lane could turn left considering that only one lane was present in the upcoming road. Because of this, the BMW was forced to hit a school bus and drive up and onto a median.I have to at least give it to the BMW driver because he didn't start blaming everyone else when he got out of the car. Hopefully, he now knows that this left-hand turn results in just one lane.BMW E30 For Sale

By Edward Jones – June 03, 2016

BMW SUV Climbs Stairs, Proves Its Worth

There are many people out in the world that would think BMW just makes sports cars or luxury sedans. But the German automaker planned to prove everyone wrong with their X Series SUVs. Unfortunately, many people are still on edge on whether or not these SUVs are capable off of the road. Having driven many iterations of the X Series SUVs, I can easily say that they are quite capable all around.For those who are still on edge about the BMW SUVs, I'm here to present you with a video of one proving its worth. Somewhere not in America, presumably Europe or Russia, a BMW X Series decided to go off of the beaten path and make its own path... up multiple flights of stairs. First, I'll say do not try this on your own and always stick to the legal roads. Secondly, this video, at the very least, shows that the German SUV can handle pretty difficult terrains.Check it out below and if you want your own BMW SUV, you can view all of the ones we have for sale by clicking the button below.BMW X5s For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – April 18, 2016

BMW Debuts the Cruise M Bike Limited Edition

BMW is always looking towards innovation and style when they come out with a new model. This, though, is something we didn't even expect.Recently, BMW released the much-awaited M2 for sale, and to commemorate the M2, they are now launching the BMW Cruise M Bike Limited Edition. The bicycle is finished in the same Long Beach Blue color as the M2 and features a high-quality, light-weight aluminum frame and is limited to the production of 1,500 units. The design, which is complemented by "high-quality technical components" like a carbon seat post and spacer, give the bike a signature feeling on the road-- just like the performance expected from a BMW. It also includes larger wheels and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. The bike is suited for the long, open road or mountainous terrain.BMWs For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 14, 2016

BMW M5 Hits 192 MPH On The Autobahn

Give me a lever long enough and I will move the world. The words of Archimedes seem logical, but how much power does one really need?For the sixth and current generation of BMW's M5, a twin turbo V8 is used to make 560 hp and 502 lb-ft of torque. This level of power is capable of triple digit speeds in only a few seconds, so one anonymous German decided to film such an effort on the Autobahn. The car in question is rated at 600 hp with the optional competition pack. For the ultimate video of the ultimate driving machine, watch below for a driver's point of view.Achtung: We at the duPont REGISTRY do not endorse or condone such dangerous behavior. Always follow the posted speed limits and obey your local motoring laws! BMW M5s For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – April 12, 2016

BMW M5: Price, Specs, Review and Photos

BMW M5 Specs Price: $93,600 Engine: 4.4-liter twin turbo V8 Horsepower: 560 hp 0–60: 4.2 seconds Top Speed: 155 mph Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic or 6-speed manual Torque: 500 lb-ft ReviewThe BMW M5, an exquisite example of BMW’s luxury performance combination, makes 560 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque through its 4.4-liter twin turbo V8. Utilizing the same engine that powers the M6, the M5 offers immense luxury with an undeniable sense of power. The seven-speed dual clutch transmission offers blistering shifts, and thankfully the M5 also comes with the option of a six-speed manual.The exterior is flowing, yet rigid, suggesting a simultaneously aggressive and humble appearance. Its luxuries do not outweigh its sporting aspects, however, with Dynamic Damper Control offering three driving modes: SPORT+, SPORT and COMFORT. These modes customize the shock absorbers' firmness, allowing a drive that feels exactly how its driver is feeling. The interior is fully upholstered in fine leather with many personalization options, including a Bang & Olufsen surround sound package available. Expect to see more detailed features as the 2016 BMW M5 gets closer to its release.BMW M5s For Sale Buy Your Issue Now

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – March 07, 2016

BMW Envisions Future with Vision Next 100 Concept

Looking 100 years into the future to celebrate their 100 year past, BMW envisions a concept fit for the years to come. The VISION NEXT 100 concept focuses on "Sheer Driving Pleasure," according to the car maker, with driver experience at the top of the list.VISION NEXT 100 features an array of futuristic components, which allow the driver to be fully immersed and connected to the vehicle for an intense driving experience. Innovation permeates the vehicle, but BMW pays special attention to three factors in particular: intuitive technology called Digital Companion, aerodynamics and object alter through Alive Geometry and intense vs laid back driving experience thanks to Boost and Ease functionality.Ergonomics and intuitive technology are all taken into account as the interior is fashioned to "create space and the right atmosphere for entertainment and relaxation according to the driver's preference," according to the car maker. While the car is being self-driven through Digital Companion, the driver can relax in comfort.Like something out of Minority Report, the Alive Geometry transforms the dashboard of the vehicle into a mass of moving triangles that the driver can manipulate according to their exterior surroundings. The purpose of this Alive Geometry is to provide the VISION NEXT 100 with the most accurate, real-time information on surroundings.The two driving modes, Boost and Ease, give the driver complete control over their experience. Boost mode is for the driver that wishes to be in control-- as he or she would in a traditional, 21st Century vehicle. Ease mode allows the car to be self-driven so the driver can relax on their journey.The new VISION NEXT 100 concept is definitely something out of the not-so-distant future. Check out more photos below. What do you think of the vehicle? Let us know in the comments below.

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