Bugatti News

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 Edward Jones – October 26, 2020

Mysterious Bugatti Hypercar Caught Testing

While we wait for Bugatti to officially unveil their mysterious model on October 28th, this can hold us all over. Instagram account @nicolaslemarseillais13 was at the Paul Ricard Circuit in France when an insane camouflaged Bugatti took to the track. While we can't confirm or deny that this is the model Bugatti is teasing, the rear lights most definitely very similar to what was being teased. As far as everything else about this car goes, it looks to be the most extreme we've seen from Bugatti. From the low-slung front to the roof scoop and remarkable rear wing setup, it has all the markings of a race-ready hypercar. While we will have to wait just a little bit longer for the official word, seeing this car leaves me more than excited for what's to come from Bugatti. See All Bugattis For Sale

By Edward Jones – October 23, 2020

Date For New Bugatti World Premiere Announced

Not too long ago, Bugatti teased what appears to be a new vehicle (see above). While the image was interesting to look at, there wasn't any substantive information regarding what the teaser was for. Now, we finally have a bit more information as Bugatti has announced that they will premiere the teased automobile on October 28, 2020. Along with this tease came an image of "0,67". I, for the life of me, cannot figure out what that number will stand for. If you have any idea, please leave it in the comments below because I'm stumped. See All Bugattis For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – October 12, 2020

2021 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Customer Test Drives

For those among us waiting for their Bugatti to arrive, it looks like deliveries are about to begin. In their latest press release, we learn that the 2021 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport customer test drives have started. Nearly 2 years and 31,000 miles after the project started, the Pur Sport has arrived as the perfect blend of luxury and performance. Their goal was to maximize grip in the corners without sacrificing street civility. Customers eagerly awaited their turn to drive a few laps at the Bilster Berg race track. With less weight and more aggressive transmission gears, it reaches 62 mph in 2.3 seconds, 124 mph in 5.5 seconds, and it can leap from 62 to 75 mph in 3.4 seconds while locked in 6th gear! Nothing else in the world can do this, so click the button below to learn more from our Bugatti dealers.

By Andrew Nabors – October 05, 2020

First 2021 Bugatti Divo Delivered In Qatar

Stunning cars demand impressive surroundings, so one lucky customer chose a new sports arena. The Al Bayt Stadium was recently completed and it will be home to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. That is why it was the location for the first 2021 Bugatti Divo Delivery in Qatar. Located between Bahrain and Dubai, this peninsula on the Persian Gulf is home to ancient Islamic art along with striking modern architecture. Bugatti Divo Price, Specs, Photos and Review Now it is home one of only 40 examples of the Bugatti Divo. Focused on all-out track performance, it has stiffer suspension and less weight thanks to a stripped down interior and basic audio system. Deleting much of the cockpit insulation combined to cut 77 lbs compared to a fully-loaded Chiron. The transmission and final drive are also much shorter to maximize low end torque, even if it limits the top speed to only 236 mph. Aerodynamics front and rear of the brakes prevent the rotors from burning while also keeping the car glued to the track. Although all 40 cars have been sold, we will undoubtedly have a few once the owner wants something new. Click the button to find your Bugatti and stay with us for all your hypercar news. Browse Bugatti For Sale

By Edward Jones – September 17, 2020

Bugatti and Buben&Zorweg Watch Safes Honor the Chiron Hyp...

Bugatti has just announced a new partnership Buben&Zorweg, a company that creates incredible watch safes and winders. This new partnership has resulted in the creation of three different pieces, all of which celebrate the Bugatti Chiron Super Sports 300+. First up are the Grand Illusion and Illusion watch safes. The Grande Illusion model is the much taller and more pronounced version. To open the safe, there's a biometric sensor or transponder chip that can be used. From there, the watches rise up effortlessly like a magic trick. On top of the safe, you'll notice that there's a B&Z Flying Minute Tourbillon Clock. The Illusion model has the same idea, but in a smaller size. If you're looking for just a watch winder, there's the Spirit Chiron watch winder for either four or eight watches. You can learn more about these new pieces by visiting Buben&Zorweg's website. All Bugattis for Sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 09, 2020

2021 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Production Starting Soon

After thousands of employee-hours and hundreds of miles, the 2021 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport production will start soon. In their latest press release they have confirmed that the final testing is finished. The last event at the Nardo Ring produced 9 gigabytes of engine data alone, so engineers are sorting through the data collected from all systems to finalize the car's calibrations. Bugatti Chiron Price, Specs, Photos & Review Chief Test Driver Andy Wallace says: "I am really impressed by the precise balance of the running gear, the extremely high grip level, the exact steering response and the way in which the Chiron Pur Sport accelerates so quickly and safely out of the corners. This car has exceeded my expectations by far". This masterpiece was built for sharp corners and tough track days, so we can't wait to get behind the wheel. Production will start in a few weeks to meet the goal of the first customer delivery before the Holidays. Only 60 examples will be built, so click the button below to learn more from our dealers. Browse Bugatti For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 08, 2020

Jay Leno Drives His 1932 Bugatti Type 39

Not every car is worth saving. Coming to this realization is an epiphany at the end of a long road. Before 3D printing and CNC tools, restoring a car had to be done by locating original parts. If that is a dead end you must either part ways, or commit to going all-in. That's why we're glad Jay Leno drives his 1932 Bugatti Type 39. It was discovered as a rust bucket with rotten wood, so it took years to restore. It was made new again by Hjeltness Restoration before winning its class at Pebble Beach. Jay Leno’s Car Collection Instead of their race cars, this grand touring Bugatti was meant for weekend cruising. Built during the depths of the depression, this car is as priceless then as it is now. That's why we're glad Mr. Leno is not afraid to cruise in SoCal traffic. Click the button below to find a Bugatti for yourself and stay with us for more updates from Jay Leno's Garage. Browse Bugatti For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – August 31, 2020

Bugatti Divo and Type 35 Take on the Historic Targa Florio

The Targa Florio is a truly historic race that was created all the way back in 1906. This race was founded by the Sicialian business family Florio, hence the name. Racers would take off through the streets of Sicily and along the mountainside roads. Bugatti has a special connection to this race, as the Bugatti Type 35 took first place multiple times, inculding five consecutive wins. The Targa Florio continued up until 1977 when it ran for the last time. While the Bugatti Type 35 has ran the Targa Florio and won, newer models from the French automaker haven't had the chance. Because of this, Bugatti decided to take their new Divo hypercar out to the streets where Targa Florio ran, alongside the iconic Type 35 being driven by Andy Wallace, Bugatti's chief test driver. “It’s incredible what racing drivers like Albert Divo managed to achieve back then. And even though the Type 35 is easy to drive for its age, it is still a constant muscle workout. There are lots of corners, all of them tight, the route is unclear and the condition of the tarmac is very poor. It's impossible to overtake,” says Wallace. You can see the stunning images of this happening for yourself down below and even see it in action in the video up above. See All Bugattis for Sale

03_bugatti-gstaad_pur-sport_imwinkelried_schenk

By Edward Jones – August 24, 2020

Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Stops in Switzerland Before Comi...

The Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport is finishing up its European tour with a stop at the village of Gstaad in Switzerland. This was a beautiful way to wrap up the hypercar's tour. With exclusive châlets, boutiques and hotels, the Chiron Pur Sport had the idyllic backdrop. “Surrounded by winding mountain roads, Gstaad is the perfect location to fully enjoy a ride with a hypercar as agile and performant as the Chiron Pur Sport," says declares CEO of Bugatti Gstaad, Chris Schenk. "Each and every expert belonging to our team is proud to work for the prestigious Bugatti brand. We are celebrating the end of a highly successful roadshow at a very special place with an incredible car." Now, it's time for the Chiron Pur Sport to make its way over the USA, where clients across the country will be able to experience the new hypercar. So, be on the lookout for more exciting Bugatti coverage from us. See All Bugattis for Sale

By Edward Jones – August 10, 2020

See the Unboxing of the First Bugatti Divo in the US

It was just a week ago that Bugatti announced the deliveries of the first customer Divos. Now, we are happy to announce that Miller Motorcars x Bugatti Greenwich has received one of those examples and they did a complete unboxing video of the hypercar. This Divo made is one of the 40 that will be produced, making it a rare gem in the automotive world. Thankfully, Bugatti took very special care when shipping this Divo from Paris to New York, ensuring its safe arrival. The giant box holding the hypercar inside had to be very specifically disassembled so that the Divo could roll out. You can see the process from start to finish by clicking play down below. View Miller Motorcars' Inventory https://www.instagram.com/p/CDoD3eUF1qR/?igshid=8ud9drpr8arl

Bugatti News

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe