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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

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 21, 2026

BRABUS x DAB Motors Unveil Electric Bikes at Milan Design Week

Since its humble beginnings, modifying Mercedes-Benz cars with bodykits and performance upgrades, which have now evolved into cult collector classics, BRABUS continues to write history with bold, innovative builds that pave the way. From bespoke Rolls-Royce builds to two-wheeled performance masterpieces, there’s no stopping where the German aftermarket tuning company is headed next. At Milan Design Week, BRABUS has partnered with DAB Motors to introduce a limited-edition lineup of electric motorcycles that tap into design and usability. The series showcases three all-new models, the DAB 1a BRABUS, BRABUS URBAN E, and a limited FIRST EDITION, that reflect the growing popularity in high-end electric urban mobility, especially in cities where size and efficiency matter. All three bikes share a similar start, built around a 72-volt battery system that delivers up to 93 miles of range and a top speed of around 75 mph. What’s really impressive is how the power is delivered. Electric torque comes on instantly, making them perfect for stop-and-go city riding. The BRABUS URBAN E offers a touch more power, with output increased to 37 horsepower and 350 ft-lbs of torque, along with multiple dynamic riding modes that adjust how aggressively that power comes on. There’s even a short “Nitrous”-style boost for quick bursts. Lookwise, the bikes feature familiar BRABUS styling, with exposed carbon fiber, eye-catching finishes, and minimal branding worked into the design. The URBAN E is more experimental with a monocoque-style body and integrated lighting, while the FIRST EDITION models are limited to just ten examples per color (Fusion Red, Superviolet, Peetch, and Desert Sand). All BRABUS Inventory Source: BRABUS

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 27, 2023

BRABUS x KTM Debut The Exclusive 1300 R MASTERPIECE EDITI...

BRABUS rolls out the exclusive MASTERPIECE EDITION of its 1300 R, limited to just 50 units. While the professionals at BRABUS are traditionally known for upgrading Mercedes-Benz performance cars with aesthetic and performance parts, the brand is also recognized for its involvement in the two-wheel sector with the team at KTM. After releasing its first high-performance motorcycle last year, BRABUS is proud to unveil its final MASTERPIECE EDITION of the 1300 R hyper-naked bike. The special edition 1300 R will make its grand debut at the Monaco Yacht Show from September 27th to 30th. Created as a farewell to the KTM 1290 Super Duke R EVO, the MASTERPIECE EDITION comes in two unique color schemes, “Onyx Black” and “Diamond White,” each limited to 25 units. Improved with "Frozen Gold" elements and an expanded carbon package, this two-wheel machine is built to impress. The motorcycle features a V-twin engine pumping out 180 horsepower and is capable of reaching top speeds of 168 mph. Its exterior is enhanced by BRABUS Signature design, including a round LED headlight framed by an exposed-carbon visor. Motorsport-inspired side fairings with integrated winglets are also crafted from high-tech composite materials, adding an aggressive flair to its overall appearance. The limited-edition model also sports the distinctive BRABUS Monoblock Z hi-tech forged wheels with polished sections. When it comes to riding experience, the WP semi-active suspension can adapt to road conditions and driving style, offering versatility for both city cruising and racetrack laps. What sets this bike apart is its extensive list of extras. From a BRABUS MASTERPIECE box made of carbon to an exclusive tour of the BRABUS Manufaktur, owners will truly get the VIP treatment. With only 50 units available worldwide, the BRABUS 1300 R MASTERPIECE EDITION is an experience designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. View all BRABUS inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All BRABUS Inventory For Sale Source: BRABUS

BRABUS 1300 R Edition 23 Location two 26

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 13, 2023

BRABUS x KTM Release The All-New 1300 R Edition 23 Luxury...

With monumental success since their first collaboration, BRABUS is back to team up with KTM to debut its 1-Second-Wow effect on two wheels. Partnering to create one of the best-looking and most powerful machines on two wheels, BRBAUS is teaming up with leading European motorcycle manufacturer KTM for its second limited-edition collaboration motorcycle. Designed as the predecessor of its first successful release last year, the all-new 1300 R Edition 23 superbike expands on the duo’s focus on modern motorcycling. The styling of the Edition 23 coincides with BRABUS’ sport-driven flair and use of lightweight carbon fiber, offering both a Superblack and Stealth Gray colorway that transforms the look of its exposed silhouette. Inspired by the design of the brand’s fleet of exclusive 1-Second-Wow supercars, the BRABUS 1300 R Edition 23 is also equipped with BRABUS Monoblock Z forged wheels. MUST-READ: The New BRABUS 900 Stealth Green Edition Boat Is Revealed In Germany With its aggressive appearance dialed in thanks to BRABUS CNC-machined exterior components, its technical features include the latest WP APEX semi-active suspension technology. Riders of all experiences can manually select between six dedicated dampening modes, which can also be set to automatically adjust to road and riding conditions. The BRABUS 1300 R Edition 23 generates over 180 horsepower using KTM’s exceptional 1,301cc LC8 V-Twin engine. A dual-pipe slip-on exhaust adds extra performance while creating the perfect sound under power. The new BRABUS 1300 R Edition 23 is limited to only 145 units of each variation and is currently available for preorder through KTM for $45,500. View all current BRABUS inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. View All BRABUS For Sale Source: BRABUS

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 17, 2022

Watch The BRABUS 1300R Product Story By CEO Constantin Bu...

The backstory of the build between BRABUS and KTM. After a recent buzz of the new partnership between BRABUS x KTM, the motorcycle market is graced with the all-new BRABUS 1300R. The collaboration blends the creative and performance abilities of both brands. In a recent video uploaded to the BRABUS YouTube channel, Constantin Buschmann meets with KTM’s Member of the Board Hubert Trunkenpolz at the headquarters in Germany to go over the product story of the BRABUS 1300R. The design started as a traditional KTM SuperDuke but went through a makeover at BRABUS to complement its fleet of upgraded Mercedes-AMG platforms. MUST-READ: BRABUS Announces Its KTM Partnership With The All-New 1300R Motorcycle With details that highlight the craftsmanship of the team at BRABUS, the 1300R features options like a custom sports exhaust, single swing arm sport wheels, and carbon fiber components. The exclusive motorcycles are available in a Magma Red and Signature Black color scheme that are limited to only 77-units each. Every chassis is labeled with BRABUS’ badge of excellence on the fuel tank that commemorates its iconic beginning. Constantin notes that we may see several new bike configurations from the dynamic duo in the future. The all-new BRABUS 1300R is currently available to order through KTM dealerships worldwide. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury gear news and motorcycle releases. Source: BRABUS YouTube

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