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.

2018-07_M5_by_AC_Schnitzer_Record_Nordschleife_Nuerburgring_Joerg_Mueller_1024x500i___3_

By Andrew Nabors – February 01, 2019

2018 BMW M5 Review

You might not know this, but BMW's latest M5 has a tractor beam. You feel drawn to it. As you find yourself overcome with pure emotion, you need to understand what is in front of you. We spent a week with the Ultimate Driving Machine, and you should too. Known internally (and by enthusiasts) as the F90 series, the latest version arrived in 2018. The problematic Dual-Clutch transmission was axed in favor of the ZF 8-speed automatic. It is the only transmission offered, but it sends power to all wheels. I had never experienced an AWD M5 before, and it never failed to impress. My daily driver is a CTS-V, which sends great feedback to the driver. At first, I thought the BMW was numb, but I discovered I was nowhere its limits. It is 88 lbs lighter than the 2017 model thanks to using high-strength steel instead of layers of conventional sheet metal. Not only is the chassis stronger, it is very hard to find its limits on public roads. Under the hood is a revised 4.4L V8 with twin turbos. They offer 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque across the tachometer. Build up the boost by holding it back, and you will rocket to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds. It only takes 11.1 seconds to reach 124 mph, so you could probably cut a quarter-mile in the high 10-second range. Fuel mileage? Go get a hybrid. This is a fire-breathing Ktulu for only $102,000. For that price, it comes with leather and carbon fiber surrounding you. The controls are easy to reach and the HUD is full-color. From the carbon fiber roof to the finely sculpted side mirrors, you will spend hours discovering the finer details. Click the link below and our dealers will be happy to help you. Shop BMW M5 For Sale " width="680"> Related: BMW M5 and R nineT Star in Mission Impossible: Fallout AC Schnitzer Unveils 700 HP M5 Competition

By Andrew Nabors – June 11, 2018

2018 BMW M5 Top Speed on the Autobahn

If you have wondered what the latest M5 is capable of, our friends at AutoTopNL decided to hit the Autobahn with the latest beast from Bavaria. The BMW F90 Series M5 was unveiled in 2017, based on the G30 version of the 5 Series Sedan. While the base model 5 Series is available with four-cylinder and straight six turbocharged power, the M5 offers 591 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque.If you opt for the Competition Package, you will have 617 hp and the same torque. The kicker is that that immense level of torque is available from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. The body is 1/4" lower and is available with AWD for the first time. It was this model BMW used to set new records for continuous drifting records a few months ago. The advanced aluminum & high strength steel space frame of the 7 series was scaled down, and it allows this M5 to be 88 lbs lighter than its predecessor (Even with AWD). Top speed is limited to 190 mph, so we feel like that needs to be verified on film. If you want the rush of the latest M5, click the link below and stay with us for all your BMW footage.Browse BMW M5 For Sale

By Edward Jones – May 09, 2018

More Power Announced in the 2019 BMW M5 Competition

The new 2019 BMW M5 Competition has just been announced as a more powerful and more "distinct" take on the already extreme 5-Series variant. Power in the new M5 Competition's 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 has been increased by 25 horsepower over the standard M5, resulting in 625 hp. Torque remains unchanged at 553 lb-ft, but it's now available in a 200-rpm wider band (1,800 to 5,800 rpm) than the standard M5. This power translates to a 0-62 mph time of 3.3 seconds and 0-124 mph time of just 10.8 seconds. Aiding in these sprints is BMW's eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, complete with three different modes: efficient, sporty and ultra-dynamic.BMW Dishes Out New 8-Series SpecsBMW enhanced the look of the new M5 Competition through a list of design features. On the outside, high-gloss black paint is found on the mirror caps, kidney grille, side gills, rear apron insert and trunk lip thanks to the Shadow Line trim. The sports exhaust system also comes in black, along with the "M5 Competition" badge. Inside are M Performance seat belts, floormats with special piping and the "M5" logo, and an "M Competition" graphic that pops up on the instrument cluster.Pricing has not been announced just yet, but we'll report it as soon as we learn of the MSRP.

By Andrew Nabors – January 09, 2018

BMW M5 Drifts For 8 Hours, Breaks Two World Records

Yesterday we told you about BMW's ambitious plan to set a new world record. Guinness had recorded a previous record of 89.55 miles of drifting in an 8-hour test. To show off the new drift mode of the new M5, engineers decided to throw down with unprecedented technology.BMW Is Preparing For An 8-Hour M5 DriftUsing the Air Force as inspiration, BMW's M Division developed a car-to-car refueling system. Transferring gas between two moving objects is a recipe for disaster, so care was taken to make sure the hoses and tanks were up to the task. It is not without historical precedent because Mercury Marine used a similar method to refuel boats when endurance testing their outboard engines.In a YouTube video uploaded this morning, BMW has blown away the old record. If you plan on drifting for 8 hours, you will need to go 232.5 miles to beat the M5. Yes we know the track was soaked, but it is still a wild accomplishment. We can't wait to get our hands on one, not that we would ever drift a press car...So congrats to BMW for raising the bar and stay with us for all your M car updates.Browse BMW M5 For Salehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=49&v=obkLDeO58Wo

BMW Unveils Performance Parts for the new M5

By Andrew Nabors – October 31, 2017

BMW Unveils Performance Parts for the new 2018 M5

If you are in the market for a sedan with surgical precision, the new 2018 BMW M5 combines brutal power with the latest in technology. Every automaker has been guilty of limiting options on performance cars, but BMW doesn't want to be placed in that category. So they've turned to their M Division for this year's SEMA Show. A host of optional equipment was launched in a press release last night. BMW Unveils Performance Parts for the new 2018 M5German motoring fans generally fall into two categories: Keep it stock or go all-in on upgrades. If you find yourself in the latter group, the M Performance Parts include more carbon fiber for enhanced aerodynamics. Available as a kit or individually, they include new front and rear diffusers, rocker panels, and a snazzy decklid spoiler. To make use of the increased downforce, a new set of coil-over spring & shock assemblies have adjustable spring plates. For US and Canadian buyers, a new titanium exhaust system saves weight and offers an imposing growl."Mhance" Your Holidays With A Trip to BMW Driving SchoolLap times are worthless without knowing the details of each run. That's why the new M Performance Drive Analyzer records throttle position along with lateral acceleration and other data. It can be viewed on a smartphone via a dedicated app, and an optional Trackfix action camera mount. More carbon fiber trim is optional under the hood and inside the cabin. All of these upgrades will be shown on the world stage, as the new M5 has been chosen as the Safety Car for the upcoming Moto GP season. If you would like more info, click on the link below to find your local BMW M Division dealer and stay with us for all your SEMA coverage.View All BMW M Cars For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 20, 2017

BMW Unveils M Bike Limited Carbon Edition

If you like to have fun on two wheels, BMW has something new for you. Inspired by the M5 sedan, the BMW M Bike Limited Carbon Edition combines carbon and aluminum, along with the best components in the bicycle world. Only 500 examples will be produced, all finished in Marina Bay Blue Metallic.Last month, BMW and SPECIALIZED collaborated on an electrically assisted mountain bike to celebrate the new X3. The Limited Carbon Edition bikes are being built in-house to showcase the M5's advanced construction. The frame is hydroformed aluminum. It starts as a piece of aluminum placed into a hollow cavity. Water is forced in at high pressure, expanding it to form the final shape.It is an expensive process for production cars, and especially limited runs like these. Carbon is used for the fork, seat post, and spacers to keep weight to a minimum. Continental CruiseCONTACT tires measure 28" x 2.0 and are stopped by Shimano hydraulic brakes. Each bike is numbered and comes with a build certificate. They will be available from selected dealers, so to find one near you please browse for M5s for sale in the link below. Stay with us for all your BMW news.View BMW M5 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 22, 2017

BMW Unleashes the 2018 M5 (Specs and Photos)

Monterey Car Week 2017 is over. All the glitz and glamour of the event included stunning concepts from automakers big and small. Sorting through all the news is a formidable task, so BMW decided to make it easier by launching the new M5 in a press release last night. Bavarian fans the world over have been waiting for the new 5 Series super sedan, and this one doesn't disappoint. Starting with a new chassis, CFRP has been substituted for metal in many places. Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic is how the 7 Series is lighter than its competition, and its a preview of how all cars will be in the future. Check Out The BMW M5 Competition EditionThe most important news is under the hood. Digging deep into their 4.4 liter V8, engineers have discovered 40 more horsepower and 53 lb-ft of torque. You will have 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque....And that torque arrives at only 1,800 rpm and lasts to 5,700 rpm. Boost is upped to almost 25 psi, and the fuel injectors are pushed to 5,000 psi. Power like this is brutal, which is why the AWD system is all new. The system is named M Xdrive, and it incorporates the latest in torque vectoring and locking differentials. Are you ready for drifting? Floyd Mayweather's Bugatti Is Ready To FightDrivers can now select RWD only, with the transfer case sending everything rearward. That being said, you will need drag radials if you hope to launch at these power levels.AWD is used to reach 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. We will receive 50 "First Edition" examples in frozen dark red metallic with smoke white leather interiors. Expected to arrive early next year, our dealers will have to make room for them. So check out these great deals on M5 for sale, and stay with us for more BMW updates.Engine: Twin-Turbo 4.4-liter V8Transmission: 8-speed M SteptronicHorsepower: 600 hpTorque: 553 lb-ft0-60: 3.2 secondsTop Speed: 155 mph (limited)

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 Caitlin Duffy – May 06, 2015

Last New 2015 BMW M5 "30 Jahre M5" For Sale

There have been many times in the past where we have offered a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history, but each time a new chance presents itself, we are still just as excited to share it as if it were the first.One such opportunity exists now. One of 300 created, one of 30 imported to this country, one of two ever listed on our website and the only brand new example left in the world.In Hollywood, California, is this stunning and impossibly powerful 2015 BMW M5 "30 Jahre M5," the 30th anniversary edition of the M5 and the most powerful car from BMW at the time of its release. This particular example has never been titled, meaning you will be the first owner of this rare edition should you choose to act.Plastic coverings still cover certain features of the stunning interior, which is adorned with black Alcantara and full Merino leather. Sound is provided by a Bang & Olufsen system, while the headliner features a dark suede finish, crafting a dark but warm environment filled with "30 Jahre M5" badging. The exterior boasts Frozen Silver Metallic paint and the iconic M5 badge on the front grille and rear.Of course, the untapped power of this new engine is the largest draw. Its 4.4-liter V8 with M TwinPower Turbo tech creates 600 hp and 516 lb-ft, pushing it from a standstill to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds.To give you an idea of the value of this rare vehicle, the final example imported to the United States reportedly sold for $700,000 at Barrett Jackson Scottsdale on Jan. 15. How much does our brand new example cost? Click the button below to visit this listing and find out.See Price & Listing Gallery

BMW News

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe