Brabus

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

BRABUS x Panerai Submersible S BRABUS Verde Militare Edition

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 23, 2023

Panerai's New Submersible S BRABUS Verde Militare Edition...

Inspired by the cutting edge of technology, an authentic and unique design language. Although BRABUS is traditionally known for modifying supercars with performance packages, the German aftermarket specialists showcase their talents on the open water with a series of marine crafts. After just releasing the all-new 900 Stealth Green Edition boat, BRABUS and its luxury watch partners at Panerai followed up the debut with a special edition Submersible S dive watch. The new Panerai Submersible S BRABUS Verde Militare Edition takes shape as the fourth collaboration release from the two industry leaders. The Submersible S BRABUS Verde Militare Edition shares a range of key features with the styling of its 900 horsepower performance boat. MUST-READ: The New BRABUS 900 Stealth Green Edition Boat Is Revealed In Germany The Submersible S presents a 47mm case made from lightweight Carbotech, utilizing the same stealth-like matte black and green finish as the BRABUS 900 Stealth Green Edition. Its partially skeletonized dial incorporates more military-inspired green accents while proudly stamping the BRABUS logo throughout its design. The watch is powered by a movement established on the foundation of the P.4000 caliber, the first automatic movement with an off-center micro-rotor developed by the Panerai. An open sapphire caseback reveals the inner workings of the timepiece, while its outer case includes engravings to signify the special release from BRABUS x Panerai. Limited to only 200 pieces worldwide, the all-new Panerai Submersible S BRABUS Verde Militare Edition is currently available through an authorized dealer for $52,200. Source: BRABUS

BRABUS x Panerai Submersible S BRABUS Experience Edition 2

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 19, 2023

Panerai's New Submersible S BRABUS Experience Edition Is ...

Inspired by the cutting edge of technology, an authentic and unique design language. As the luxury watch industry continues to intersect with the automotive world, renowned Swiss watchmakers are releasing exclusive examples with inspiration from the most popular supercars on the market. Responsible for modifying Mercedes-AMG, Porsche, and Rolls-Royce models with performance upgrades, the team at BRABUS pride itself on continuing its ongoing horological partnership with Panerai. After two successful releases, the dynamic duo is proud to reveal the new Submersible S BRABUS Experience Edition as the third to its trio of automotive-inspired dive watches. The Carbotech case of the Submersible S measures a robust 47mm, with a signature red bezel and an inner ring that pays homage to the German tuning company. MUST-READ: The Best BRABUS G-Wagens You Can Buy Today The Panerai Submersible S BRABUS Experience Edition features a skeleton dial that showcases a stripe pattern, representing the typical BRABUS design pattern found on the grill of its supercars. Panerai powers the watch with its new in-house P.4001/S movement, utilizing GMT functions to accurately indicate a second timezone. Commemorating the stunning interior designs of BRABUS vehicles, the Submersible S BRABUS Experience Edition comes fit on a black perforated leather strap with vibrant red contrast stitching. The all-new Panerai Submersible S BRABUS Experience Edition is limited to only 22 pieces and is currently available through an authorized dealer with the price upon request. View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Watches (@dupontregistry_watches) Source: BRABUS

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 28, 2022

Panerai x BRABUS Release Its Second Collaboration Watch, ...

Panerai steps up for the release of BRABUS' new performance marine craft. The partnership between the aftermarket specialists at BRABUS and luxury watchmakers at Panerai symbolize the the epitome of luxury and performance. After the successful launch of its first collaboration watch last year, the dynamic duo is back to unveil the new Panerai Submersible S BRABUS Blue Shadow Edition. The special edition Panerai Submersible S features a 47mm case crafted from reliable DLMS titanium, with a lightweight Carbotech rotating bezel that focuses on its functionality as a true diver’s watch. The case also pays homage to the early years of Panerai by including crown protector and cushion shape. Matching the BRABUS Shadow 900 Deep Blue marine craft, the Submersible S dial design incorporates hints of blue throughout its skeleton construction. Blue SuperLumiNova on the indices and hands make for highly legible and striking accents. MUST-READ: Makes And Movements: Panerai Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition x BRABUS Shadow 900 Delivering power to the luxury dive watch, Panerai fits the Submersible S BRABUS Blue Shadow Edition with an in-house P4001/S automatic mechanical movement. The complex caliber supplies power to operate the hours, minutes, seconds, polarized date, GMT, am/pm indicator, power reserve indicator on the back, seconds reset, and calculation of immersion time functions. For long days on the water, the watch holds a lengthy 3-day power reserve and can also withstand an impressive 300-meter water resistance. A sapphire backcase allows for a closer look at inner workings of the movement, while the outer case incudes engravings that signify the special release from BRABUS x Panerai. Tying into the functional aspect of the luxury timepiece, Panerai fits the limited-edition Submersible S BRABUS Blue Shadow Edition with a black calfskin and rubber strap with contrast stitching. The all-new Panerai Submersible S BRABUS Blue Shadow Edition is limited to only 200-pieces worldwide and is currently available through an authorized dealer. View all of the current BRABUS inventory on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury watch news and releases. View All BRABUS For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Watches (@dupontregistry_watches) Source: BRABUS

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 21, 2022

Watch The BRABUS 800 XLP In Action For The Panerai S Subm...

The BRABUS 800 XLP takes on anything in its way. The market for luxury off-road vehicles continues to grow in popularity with professionals like BRABUS pushing the boundaries of traditional design and performance. BRABUS prides itself on offering superior supercar performance through its lineup of upgraded Mercedes-Benz platforms, which consists of luxury coupes, sedans, and SUVs. Alongside upgrading supercars and marine crafts, BRABUS takes its lux lifestyle to the next level by incorporating a special edition Panerai timepiece into its portfolio of diverse collaborations. In a recent vlog uploaded to the Constantin_Brabus YouTube channel, Constantin takes the BRABUS 800 XLP to an undisclosed location for a video and photoshoot showcasing the Panerai Submersible S BRABUS Black Ops Edition. MUST-READ: Makes And Movements: Panerai Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition x BRABUS Shadow 900 Displaying its versatility and functionality, the BRABUS 800 XLP takes on the largest mud pits and more difficult terrain to capture the adventurous SUV in its ideal element. Panerai CEO Jean-Marc Pontroue was also on scene to help create an artistic vision around the luxury timepiece collaboration with BRABUS. After an off-road excursion of a day, Constantin is proud to announce BRABUS’ participation in the 2022 Monaco Yacht Show featuring the BRABUS Shadow 900 boat. The partnership between BRABUS and Panerai sheds light on the similarities behind the wonderful worlds of exotic automobiles and luxury timepieces. View all of the current BRABUS inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury gear releases and supercar news. View All BRABUS For Sale @constantin_brabus YouTube

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 22, 2021

BRABUS x Panerai Unveil The Limited Submersible S Brabus ...

Panerai teams up with BRABUS to create a timepiece thats perfectly rated for performance. Recently, we covered the new BRABUS x Panerai partnership as the brands teased a new watch release through a video uploaded to Instagram. After much anticipation, Panerai is proud to present the all-new Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition. The Submersible S is presented as a 47mm GMT made from Carbotech, which provides a lightweight feel with added strength for impact. Incorporating the classic BRABUS black and red colorways, Panerai styles the skeletonized dial to mimic the design of one of the many performance-focused products that they have to offer. MUST-READ: BRABUS Announces A New Partnership With Panerai The dial also includes the BRABUS branded logo proudly stamped on the balance wheel located between the 6 and 7 o’clock position. Driving power to the new Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition is Panerai’s in-house P.4001/S Automatic Mechanical movement, which provides an astonishing 3-day power reserve. As Panerai is known for being a marine-inspired brand, the luxury timepiece is rated to 300-meter water resistance. A Caoutchouc Grey strap is added with luminous anthracite stitching and a BRABUS logo to ensure comfortable wear for the lucky new owners. The Panerai Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition is a limited-edition release with only 100-pieces being offered to collectors and enthusiasts. The all-new Panerai Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition will be available after its official launch at the 2021 Monaco Yacht Show on September 22nd. View all BRABUS vehicles for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. Shop The Panerai Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition Media/Information Source: Panerai

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 20, 2021

BRABUS Announces A New Partnership With Panerai

The powerful world of BRABUS now joins the watch industry with Panerai. As the watch industry continues to see more inspiration from brand collaborations with marine and automotive manufacturers, it opens the diversity of timepieces to collectors and enthusiasts. BRABUS is best known for modifying some of the most powerful supercars as well as producing an exclusive line of marine crafts for those looking to enhance their thrill of performance. The German-based aftermarket brand is proud to announce its newest partnership with the luxury watchmakers at Panerai. Incorporating the performance aspects of both land and sea, Panerai x BRABUS is excited to bring its high-tech luxury capabilities to a new collection of timepieces. Teased through a video uploaded to the BRABUS Instagram page, the new partnership features a glimpse of a special edition Panerai Luminor styled using the colors and logos of BRABUS. Although specifics on the new timepiece have yet to be released, the dynamic duo is prepared to unveil the product of its collaboration on September 22nd at the Monaco Yacht Show. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for coverage on the release from the all-new Panerai x BRABUS partnership. Click the link below to view all the current BRABUS inventory on duPont REGISTRY. View All BRABUS For Sale https://www.instagram.com/p/CUC_pzrqNFj/?utm_medium=copy_link

Brabus

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe