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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 Andrew Nabors – September 09, 2019

BRABUS G V12 900 Limited Edition Unveiled

On the cover of our August issue was the latest from Brabus. Our friends in Germany specialize in building the best examples of Mercedes-AMG vehicles. As such, the Brabus 700 Widestar offers 700 horsepower and 701 lb-ft of torque. It can reach 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, but some of us need more...Reaching the practical limits of the AMG V8, they have taken a page from the past. The Brabus G V12 900 limited edition has been unveiled. Browse Brabus G-Class For Sale This is the one we've been waiting for. It combines the aggressive Widestar body with an old friend, the AMG twin-turbo V12. Mercedes-AMG will not build another G65, because they have replaced the V12 with V8 engines in every model except the S 600 L. From this 6.0L block, it is bored and stroked to 6.3L, using the same bore and stroke found on classic Mercedes-AMG models. Brabus engineers have been building incredible engines for decades, and this handbuilt masterpiece is comprised of forged internals. Only ten examples will be assembled. Each G V12 900 will arrive on Brabus 24" wheels. They are wrapped in 335/25 tires, nearly twice as wide as the G550. Then attention moves to the inside. Their master upholsterers transform leather into art. These hand-stitched hides can be found on almost everywhere, with carbon fiber trim accents. Under this is extensive sound and heat insulation. It is needed because the dual 3.1" exhaust has electronic dual-mode flaps. It can't be quiet when provoked, because their engine offers 900 horsepower and 1,106 lb-ft of torque. This proved too much for the axles and transmission, so it is limited to ONLY 885 lb-ft before delivery. It is capable of reaching 62 mph in 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 174 mph. A Brabus speedometer is calibrated to reach 186 mph. This is the only way you can have the best of both worlds. The incredible abilities of the Widestar with Thor's Hammer under the hood. All 10 examples will be numbered and badged as a limited edition, so don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of history. Click the link above and contact Brabus for pricing and specifications.

By Andrew Nabors – June 03, 2019

Brabus Unveils Black Ops 800 & Shadow 800 G63 AMG

Say what you want about the Geländewagen, it is an incredible SUV with decades of dominance. We have a new Mercedes-AMG G63 downstairs, and it is the measure to which every other SUV should be compared. But it you want more power and incredible amenities, Brabus has unveiled the Black Ops 800 & Shadow 800 G63 AMG. Released over the weekend, the Black Ops 800 arrived on the German island of Sylt. This kicks off the Brabus VIP Summer tour 2019, which will include several high-profile events. At the same time, the Brabus Shadow 800 was unveiled at Top Marques Monaco 2019. Brutal Power Only ten examples of each will be produced, each one offering 800 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque. This will allow them to rach 62 mph in 4.1 seconds, with an electronic speed limiter at 150 mph. Both models will also arrive with 23" Brabus Platinum Edition forged wheels. They are 11" wide and wear 305/35 tires. Black Ops 800 Interior Black Ops 800 Sylt is a German island near the border of Denmark. This ancient Viking stronghold was the perfect setting for the Black Ops 800. It is based on the Brabus Widestar, being 4" wider than a standard G63. The red wheel accents are complimented by naked glossy carbon in several places. The interior is dark gray and black leather along with red contrast stitching. Brushed aluminum and carbon fiber make the interior truly unique. Shadow 800 Interior Shadow 800 Monaco is the perfect setting for the Shadow, as it was placed next to the latest Brabus boat. The Brabus 500 Shadow Ops boat is 30' long and developed in Finland by Axopar Boats. Like the boat, the Shadow 800 is painted in Gunmetal Gray. In contrast to its brother, the Widestar parts are finished in gloss black. The real treat is on the inside. Brabus master upholsterers chose black, light gray and red leather. It has pinpoint quilting in several sections, and the A-Pillars are Alcantara. Both models have dual mode exhaust. The pipes open for the roar of the Valkyries, or you can sneak back home in "Coming Home" mode. Both models are also backed by a 3 year/100,000 km warranty and they will be instant collectibles. Click the link below to view our Brabus G63 inventory and stay with us for all Brabus updates. Browse Brabus G63 For Sale Related: Brabus 800 Widestar G63 Unveiled in Geneva Brabus 800 Revealed: Supercar Based on Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S

By Andrew Nabors – March 04, 2019

Brabus 800 Widestar G63 Unveiled in Geneva

Last week, we told you all the reason why the Mercedes-AMG G63 is amazing. Our friends at Brabus must be happy to have this ace up their sleeve. Their new Brabus Widestar 800 G63 starts with an already potent & posh machine. Because the G65 will not be returning, they poured their efforts into revealing the true potential of the G63. Your designo leather might be nice, but Brabus hides are silky smooth. The interior improvements are a nice compliment to what's under the hood. The 4.0L V8 has been massaged with more boost and an aggressive exhaust. After re-tuning the computer, you will have an emissions legal SUV with 789 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque. A run to 62 mph takes 4.1 seconds and the top speed has been limited to 149 to protect the forged 23" Platinum Edition wheels. They are 11" wide and are encompassed by massive fender flares. The Widestar 800 is 4" wider than a normal G63, and it adds stability and personality to the beast. Click the link below to browse Brabus for sale, and stay with us for all your Brabus updates. Shop Brabus G63 Related: 2019 Mercedes-AMG Price & Specs Revealed Top Speed Run in Mercedes-AMG G63

By Edward Jones – August 09, 2018

BRABUS 125r: The Pocket Rocket

In 2017, smart BRABUS GmbH celebrated their 15th anniversary. To celebrate this occasion, they created a special club sport version of the smart fortwo designed specifically for the track. It was an immediate hit with those who drove it, who nicknamed it the "Pocket Rocket." Why that name? If you're familiar with BRABUS, you know that the name "Rocket" is designated to some of their fastest vehicles.BRABUS Builds A Mean Mercedes X-Class TruckNow, BRABUS has introduced an exclusive 125R edition of the track race car that's designed for public roads and now it comes with an open top. Powering the car is a turbocharged three-cylinder engine that pumps out 125 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. Yes, both figures may be under the 200-mark, but remind yourself that we're talking about a smart fortwo cabrio here. This power will launch the little sports car from 0 to 62 mph in 9.2 seconds and will ultimately hit a top speed of 109 mph.

By Andrew Nabors – July 18, 2017

First 2016 BRABUS G800 (1 of 1) in U.S. for Sale

When it comes to unlocking more power from German engines, BRABUS does it best. The automotive world was shocked when Mercedes-AMG released a twin-turbo V8 powered G Wagen back in 2012. The potent powertrain was found in the 6x6 and it made for blistering acceleration. For a rare few, V8 engines are not acceptable in any circumstance. AMG has been building potent V12 engines for decades. Found under the hood of the S and SL Class, we never expected to see it crammed into an SUV. Power-hungry AMG engineers somehow fit the big V12 along with its twin turbos into a space that it wasn't designed for.The Mercedes-AMG G65 offers 612 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Power of that magnitude in a sports car would decimate almost anything on the road, and it has three locking differentials. Looking at the numbers, any gearhead will notice that torque outclasses horsepower by 126. That means the engine's true potential is being choked by limited intake and exhaust flow. BRABUS knows that horsepower and torque should be on-par with each other, so they decided to reverse-engineer the beast. Mercedes-AMG engineers didn't overlook anything in the design, and there are several reasons for limiting the output.Insurance companies are scared by big numbers. An unrestricted twin-turbo V12 is dangerous to irresponsible drivers. The third reason to to keep the premium power for their sedans and black-series models. Back atBRABUS, the original intake and exhaust systems were scrapped. Starting over, hand-fabricated headers feed big BRABUS turbos, each with their own custom cold air box. Only four air-to-water intercoolers are used to remove heat from the intake. External wastegates dump into mandrel bent BRABUS active exhaust. Dual 3" pipes have high-flow cats to meet emissions and end in slash-cut tips in front of the right rear tire. On the dyno, the BRABUS G800 made 800 horsepower and 1,047 lb-ft of torque. Power of that level will destroy transmissions, axles, and almost everything. So the computer is tuned to limit the torque to only 811 lb-ft.Riding on forged one-piece 23" billet wheels, you will have several times the power of other SUVs. Needless to say, this is the only G800 in the US. The carbon fiber hood and wide body kit are taken directly from the prototype, so you won't ever see anything like it on this continent. Think of all the fun you could have pulling your nosy neighbor's house off its foundation, or challenging a bulldozer to tug-of-war. No task is too mighty for this wild machine, so if you need more info please click on the link below.2016 Brabus G800 For Sale

By Edward Jones – June 20, 2016

Brabus 850 6.0 Biturbo Cabrio: World's Fastest and Most P...

Over the weekend at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Brabus unveiled their new 8550 6.0 Biturbo Cabrio, based on the Mercedes-AMG S63 Cabriolet. The aftermarket tuner states that this new Cabrio is "the world's fastest and most powerful four-seat cabriolet."Brabus is not one to take tuning lightly and that's why they've upped the ante on the S63 Cabrio, pushing the power all the way up to 850 hp and 1,069 lb-ft of torque from the base version's 577 hp and 644 lb-ft. To do this, Brabus started by increasing the displacement of the engine from 5.5-liters to 6.0 (5,461 cc to 5,912 cc). This was accomplished through a new Brabus crankshaft and re-machined cylinder heads. And, in true Brabus fashion, they added two new turbocharged, exhaust manifolds, down pipes and more.(Also Read: Brabus Expands Color Options For G63 AMG)And, in true Brabus fashion, they added two new turbocharged, exhaust manifolds, down pipes and more. If you happen to open the hood to take a look at all of these changes, your eyes will be taken right to the Brabus Gold Head Reflection sheathing for the intake and charge-air pipes.All of these modifications make for a car that's packing the power and a brutal sound.Those interested in having a car that will surprise anyone that tries them in a race should also know that the Brabus 850 Cabrio comes with a three-year, 62,000 mile warranty.BRABUS S-Class' For Sale

By Caitlin Duffy – February 24, 2015

BRABUS G 6x6 Interior Preps for Geneva

BRABUS has been hard at working preparing their Motor Salon for the 2015 Geneva International Motor Show, and we can't wait to see the final display.In a few separate galleries uploaded to their Facebook page with new pictures added almost every day, the German aftermarket tuner has been releasing peeks at both the interior and exterior modifications that will be on display.On Feb. 18, they uploaded a gallery showing off the interior of the G63 AMG 6x6 based creation, decked out in a stunning black leather with red contrast stitching throughout. The BRABUS logo appears in red on the headrests of the front and rear seats and on the leather floor mats, and subtle chrome accenting adds to the sleek appeal of the interior design. Be sure to take a look in the first gallery below.(See Also: BRABUS 850 Coupe Revealed Before Geneva)Another gallery on their page was created Feb. 3, though new pictures have been added regularly and as recently as Feb. 20. It clues us all in to which cars will be on display at the show, and can be found below, just under the gallery of interior shots.Be sure to stay with us for more updates from the Geneva International Motor Show as we draw closer to its start.G 6x6 Interior Gallery BRABUS' Geneva Auto Salon Gallery (Source: Facebook) See More Geneva International Motor Show Updates

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