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 Andrew Nabors – July 02, 2018

BMW Builds 24k Gold i3 and i8 For Charity Auction

When the nice people of the Soviet Union decided to invade Checkloslovakia in 1968, an activist started a political movement for his people to fight back. Václav Havel’s resistance to the Iron Curtain united Czechs and Slovaks together, culminating in the Velvet Revolution in 1989. He was elected President and served until 2003. After his death in 2011, his widow Dagmar decided to devote her life to charity.The latest news from the Dagmar and Václav Havel Foundation is a pair of gold BMWs. This isn't a cheesy metalflake job, BASF created this unique finish from 24k gold. The i3 and i8 are the Starlight Collection and were built by BMW's Czech division for the foundation. It is to benefit their VIZE 97 Prize, which is award annually to groundbreaking scientific or humanitarian achievements. the i8 is mostly new for the 2019 model year. A new battery increases your electric cruising range from 19 to 33 miles and ups the milage to 76 MPGe. Our dealers are ready to help you, so click the link below to find out more.Browse BMW i8 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – May 25, 2018

First 18 BMW i8 Roadsters Have Been Delivered in Style

Yesterday in Munich, 18 members of the BMW i8 Club received their i8 Roadsters. Over a year in the waiting, the latest i Series car has been highly anticipated. All 18 cars were built in order, and have sequential VINs. They were lined up inside BMW Welt with numbered car covers for the grand reveal.New 2019 BMW i8 Roadster and Coupe RevealedSay what you want about the i8, I love the car. The lightweight carbon fiber body and massive torque make for a fun daily driver. Plug it in and you will rarely need to use gas. The press release says these cars represent the First Edition i8 Roadsters, which will be limited to 200 examples. Each one has dry-carbon interior trim, Harmon/Kardon audio and i8 logo floorboard lamps and puddle lamps. You can't argue with 76 MPGe, so click the link below to find your i8 and please remember the fallen who gave it all to allow us to enjoy everything we have.Browse BMW i8 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 30, 2018

BMW i8 Roadster & New i8 Coupe Photoshoot

We've waited long enough! BMW has finally confirmed the i8 Roadster will arrive in May. It will be sold alongside a 2nd generation i8 Coupe. Battery capacity has been increased from 20 to 34 Amp-hours, so the gasoline generator has been reprogrammed to only awaken under extreme conditions.The new i8 and its convertible sibling have 12 more electric horsepower for a total of 143. Last year our demo model had an electric range of 25 miles, so the new one has been bumped to 34. While the coupe is still a 2+2, the i8 Roadster trades the back seats for a powered convertible top. Once the top is stowed, the vertical rear glass moves into an optimal setting to prevent a turbulent cockpit.New 2019 BMW i8 Roadster and Coupe RevealedHigh voltage charging is available at home, and it will top off the battery in under 3 hours. The Roadster weighs in at 3,516 lbs, only 132 lbs heavier than the coupe. You will have 374 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque in a stylish carbon fiber body- what more could you ask for? Stay with us for all your BMW i Series updates.Browse BMW i8 For Sale

By Edward Jones – November 29, 2017

New 2019 BMW i8 Roadster and Coupe Revealed

After just a couple of years since the BMW i8's release, the model is getting a refresh and a new convertible variant. Announced by BMW is the new 2019 i8 Coupe and i8 Roadster.The most important announcement is without a doubt the addition of the i8 Roadster. BMW has been teasing this model for quite some time, but we finally get the chance to see it uncovered. Its electronically operated soft-top roof opens and closes in just 16 seconds and can be engaged at speeds of up to 31 mph.How to Drift a BMW For both the Coupe and Roadster, the new engine's total output is increased up to 369 horsepower when compared to the previous i8's powerplant. BMW is putting the 0-60 mph time of the Coupe and Roadster at 4.2/4.4 seconds, respectively. Top speed of both cars is electronically limited to 155 mph.Expect to see the sales of the new 2019 BMW i8 Coupe and Roadster started in Spring 2018.

By Edward Jones – November 15, 2017

Upcoming BMW i8 Roadster Teased

The BMW i8 is a radically designed sports car that is unlike any other car in the German automaker's lineup. It truly is a car that breaks away from the norm that we've seen from BMW over the recent years. The first example of the i8 released is a coupe variant, but we all knew that a convertible i8 would be coming soon enough. And now, here we are, with BMW teasing the upcoming i8 Roadster with a new video. Take a look at the unreleased i8 Roadster in the video below and get ready for a "virtually silent" BMW.Reviewed: 2017 BMW X4 M40i

By Edward Jones – August 08, 2017

Wild "Joker" BMW i8 is Unlike Any Other Car on the Road

Friend of the blog Rene Turrek has created a long list of wild paint jobs for cars, including a Captain America Ford Mustang and an Iron Man Lamborghini Aventador. Now he has taken his paint to a BMW i8 and created a villain out of it.The car features Jared Leto's Joker from "Suicide Squad" right on the hood, surrounded by LED lightning that can be turned on via remote. On the front quarter panels are a bunch of "Ha"s as if the Joker himself graffiti'd the car. The rear quarter panels are spades with skulls in the middle, befitting of the villain gracing the cover.

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 Nicole Slaughter-Graham – February 16, 2016

Rinspeed Creates Self-Driving Σtos Concept Based on BMW i...

Much speculation centers around the illusive self-driven car that we've all been waiting to see for the past few years, but Rinspeed is looking to put that speculation to rest. Though others have tried, Rinspeed is out to set the standard for the best, most humanly compatible self-driving car and will present the Σtos Concept Based on BMW i8. The design and specifications of the Σtos are truly something special.The car will feature a retractable steering wheel the retreats into the dashboard, which provides the human "driver" with more space to work, read or partake in another activity. Two 21.5 inch wide screen HD monitors adorn the dashboard and are adjustable to fit the driver and passenger's needs. Equipped with Harman Connected Car technology, the Σtos employs a "personal assistant of sorts" much like iPhone's Siri. The technology is able to provide entertainment, information and anticipate the needs of the passengers.Σtos focuses not only on having the best of technology, but also employing the most effective safety measures. According to Rinspeed,A total of eight HD exterior cameras visually monitor the vehicle surroundings completely. This makes impressive 180-degree panoramic views in front of the vehicle and behind possible and provides virtual “exterior mirrors” with an expanded field of vision that has no blind spots. People and objects in the entire vehicle surroundings are detected and tracked automatically. If they represent an accident hazard, the driver receives an appropriate warning.The Swiss car maker ensures that speed and agility will also be a factor for Σtos with wide 20-inch Borbet GTX aluminum rims and an aerodynamic body.The Σtos is set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show, but for now, check it out in the gallery below.BMW i8s For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – February 16, 2016

Revealed: BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition

As if the i8 couldn't get any sweeter, BMW recently announced on Facebook that the BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition will hit the market in July 2016 and only be available for a limited time. The exclusive red finish and small details in the Protonic Edition give the i8 an added aesthetic edge. The Protonic Edition will have the following exclusive features: Protonic Red Paint Frozen Gray metallic accents BMW W-spoke 470 light-alloy wheels Red double-stitching in interior High-grade carbon fibre and ceramic applications The i8 is all about futuristic sport, and a classic red finish and interior accents speak to the sportiness of the car. As you may well know, the i8 is a modern GT car made almost entirely of carbon fiber. The wonder material can be seen along the door jambs and other areas to make light of the car’s performance nature. With 23 miles of pure electric range, the i8 is also a sensible choice for a daily driver. The Protonic Edition just adds to the luxury and sport this hybrid car already exude.Here's a recap of the BMW i8 specs:2016 BMW i8 Specs Price: $136,500 Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder Horsepower: 357 hp 0–60: 4.2 seconds Top Speed: 155 mph Transmission: 6-speed automatic Torque: 420 lb-ft The Protonic Edition is set for sale this summer and although numbers haven't been verified yet, BMW promises a limited production.BMW i8s For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – February 10, 2016

2016 BMW i8: Price, Specs, Review and Photos

2016 BMW i8 Specs Price: $136,500 Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder Horsepower: 357 hp 0–60: 4.2 seconds Top Speed: 155 mph Transmission: 6-speed automatic Torque: 420 lb-ft ReviewPerformance hybrids are here to stay, and for its second year of production, BMW’s i8 receives a host of new content. While most manufacturers offer interior and exterior upgrades as additional line items, the Pure Impulse program bundles together every possible option available. Pure Impulse members will also receive a monthly magazine aimed at involving i8 owners in unique experiences and opportunities. A combined 357 horsepower and 420 pound-feet propel this composite coupe from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. The i8 is a modern GT car made almost entirely of carbon fiber. The wonder material can be seen along the door jambs and other areas to make light of the car’s performance nature. With 23 miles of pure electric range, the i8 is also a sensible choice for a daily driver. The turbocharged 1.5-liter three cylinder is armed with two electric motor/generators. A combined 357 horsepower and 420 pound-feet propel this composite coupe from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds.Control of the car is managed by the eDrive system. Armed with three driving modes, Comfort, Eco Pro and Sport, it brings together the regenerative braking, stability control and all-wheel-drive system into a cohesive unit. You won’t be bothered by much wind resistance on your way to155 mph. That’s because the exterior is more about clean airflow than downforce.The i8 stands as a proof of concept for many forward looking technologies, and it has been so popular that BMW has added another shift at the plant to keep up with demand. Rumors of a hotter version are in the works, but this level of power, efficiency and civility won’t be easily eclipsed.BMW i8s For Sale Buy Your Issue Now

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