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

Bugatti News

Bugatti news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated as each story breaks, covering the Chiron in its many forms, the Mistral roadster and the track-only Bolide. Our reporting also follows the V16 hybrid Tourbillon and the auction results that set values for the earlier cars. Bugatti builds in very small numbers, so a single sale can reset the market for a whole model. That is where our marketplace helps readers most. Bugattis covered here are often listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, which puts the reporting and a real asking price side by side. For Bugatti news today, and the hypercar news and exotic car market news around it, start below.

By Edward Jones – January 22, 2020

Bugatti Chiron Production to End Next Year and Big Surpri...

Bugatti is expecting 2020 to be a huge year for their brand. For starters, the first Divo models will finally roll out of Molsheim this year and be delivered to their owners. Bugatti also announced that the production of the Chiron will continue until the end of 2021. If you're interested, act fast because fewer than 100 are still available. Will we see any new Bugatti models in 2020? That remains to be seen, but Stephan Winkelmann, President of Bugatti, is hinting towards some big things: "“All I can say is this: we’ll be presenting a few interesting surprises in 2020. We have several ideas and are continuing to work on the future of our traditional marque." SEE ALL BUGATTIS FOR SALE Source: Bugatti

By Edward Jones – January 20, 2020

Wild Bugatti Veyron Plows Snow and Tows Skier

When it snows, most supercar and hypercar owners keep their prized possessions in the garage. For TheStradman and Houston of Royalty Exotic Cars, however, they took their Bugatti Veyron and Lamborghini Aventador out in the snow just for fun. The two cars were taken to the parking lot of a ski resort in Utah where the cars put on a "spin class." After doing some powdery donuts, the Veyron went on a snowplow run, covering the hypercar in snow. But it doesn't end there. They then tied a rope to the Veyron and towed TheStradman on skis behind it. Insanity. ALL BUGATTI VEYRONS FOR SALE " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 07, 2020

Bugatti Teases Something New

While other manufacturers are posting their 2019 numbers, Bugatti is looking to the future. It is hard to believe that every Bugatti Chiron for sale is based on a design from 2015. That's why Bugatti has teased something new on their Instagram page What emerged as a successor to the Veyron, it spawned the Chiron Sport in 2018, and a hardcore track model named "Divo". It was followed by the La Voiture Noir last year, and a world-record speed attempt. So what might we be looking at? One theory is another flavor of Chiron. How to do the $21k Bugatti Veyron Oil Change Considering the Veyron had over a dozen bespoke versions, it is very plausible. Since we've never seen a Bugatti in the rain, our guess is a Chiron Speedster. Who needs a roof at 250 mph anyway? Tell us what you think it is in the comments below and stay with us for all your Bugatti updates. " width="680"> Related: Bugatti Chiron "Hermes Edition" Revealed by Manny Khosbin

By Edward Jones – January 02, 2020

Bugatti Chiron "Hermès Edition" Revealed by Manny Khoshbin

Manny Khoshbin has just received the latest collection to his car collection and it's as beautiful as vehicles come. Introducing his new Bugatti Chiron "Hermès Edition" hypercar. Khoshbin has been waiting for this car since he designed it four years ago. For the color scheme, he went with all-cream for the interior and exterior. The Hermès Courbettes Graphic with horses can be found on the exterior and interior of the hypercar, marking the first time this pattern has been used in a sports car. Both wool and cashmere were used for the pattern in the cabin. Bugatti Chiron Specs: 1/4 Mile, 0-60 & Prices This isn't the first time that Bugatti and Hermès have teamed up. In fact, the first worked together in the 1920s and in 2008 for the Veyron. Now, Manny Khoshbin has the Hermès Chiron and it's just as beautiful as we expected. SEE ALL BUGATTI CHIRONS FOR SALE Image Source: Instagram

By Andrew Nabors – December 17, 2019

Bugatti Chiron Sport Zebra in Detail

Please don't adjust your screens, what you are looking at is a masterpiece. Inspired by a 2-tone African mammal, you can clearly see the likeness when viewing the Bugatti Chiron Sport Zebra in detail. We've been following this unique build since it was spotted in October. An amazing film was uploaded at the beginning of December showing highlights of the assembly process, and now the lucky customer can enjoy this bespoke Bugatti Chiron for sale. Uploaded to their social media accounts today, take a look at the custom touches below. If you want one for yourself, click the button to find our Bugatti dealer near you, and stay with us for all of their updates. Browse All Bugatti For Sale Related: 2020 Bugatti Chiron Sport Zebra is a Masterpiece Bugatti Chiron Sport Specs, Prices, & Photos

By Andrew Nabors – December 02, 2019

2020 Bugatti Chiron Sport Zebra is a Masterpiece

We first spotted this special-order supercar back in October. Inspired by the 2-tone liveries of the later model Veyrons, the 2020 Bugatti Chiron Zebra is a masterpiece. In their latest Facebook Video, Bugatti takes us behind the scenes of this build. What we see is that it is a 1 of 1 example of a highly-customized Chiron. The rear bumper looks to be U.S.-Spec, and the unique motif is replicated throughout the interior. You can order your Bentley Chiron Sport for sale in any livery your heart desires, so click the button below to find our dealer near you. Browse All Bugatti For Sale https://www.facebook.com/bugatti/videos/2829154953802118/ Related: Bugatti La Voiture Noire Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Edward Jones – December 02, 2019

Bugatti Chiron Noire Special Editions Announced

Following the Bugatti La Voiture Noire's direction are two new special edition Chirons that have just been announced. The Bugatti Chiron Noire Sportive and Chiron Noire Elegance are two new versions of the hypercar that continue the dark theme set by the La Voiture Noire. The main difference between these two models is their exterior. Bugatti dressed the Chiron Noire Elegance in a black exposed carbon fiber exterior, while the Chiron Noire Sportive has an exposed carbon fiber body with a matte black finish. There are few other exclusive features to both of these special edition models on top of their elegant body finishes. Upfront on both models is the Bugatti "Macaron" emblem that is made of solid silver but refined with black enamel. The interiors of both models have also been specialized to match their dark themes as well. Bugatti is limiting these special editions to just 20 examples and it's available for both the Chiron and Chiron Sport models. They will cost roughly $3.3 million and be delivered around Q2 2020. SEE ALL BUGATTI CHIRONS FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – December 02, 2019

Jay Leno Drives Bugatti EB110 Super Sport

We have statistics on our fans, so if you clicked on this you probably like Bugattis. Of course, the Veyron and Chiron are among the best cars ever made, Bugatti owned the 90's with a quad-turbo V12 supercar. That's why we are happy to watch Jay Leno drive a Bugatti EB110 Super Sport. Everything You Need To Know About the Bugatti EB110 SS The EB110 was styled by Gandini and built in Italy between '90 and '95. But after buying Lotus, the company was bankrupt. A savior appeared in the form of Dauer, a German racing shop. They bought the unfinished chassis and built 5 Super Sport Light Weight race cars with carbon fiber bodies. Browse All Bugatti For Sale Instead of 553 horsepower, new turbos and tuning unlocked 645 horsepower. Using carbon fiber everywhere shed 507 lbs, making the ultimate Bugatti until the Veyron arrived. Our dealers have great holiday incentives on your Bugatti, so click the button above for the ultimate stocking stuffer! " width="680"> Related: The Story of 2 Wild EB110 Race Cars Jay Leno's Car Collection

By Andrew Nabors – November 06, 2019

Meet Bugatti Test Driver Andy Wallace

At what speed does a test driver need a Pilot's License? By all measures of power and acceleration, nothing beats a Bugatti Chiron for sale. It can reach 186 mph in 13.1 seconds, which is quicker than an SR-71 Blackbird takeoff. That is why the engineers need a driver willing to tame the beast. One man volunteered, so meet Bugatti test driver Andy Wallace. Related: Bugatti Chiron Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Edward Jones – October 14, 2019

How to Load a $9 Million Bugatti Centodieci Hypercar

Have you ever loaded up a car into a transporter? Have you ever driven a multi-million dollar car? What about loading up a multi-million dollar car into a transport? Well, one lucky person had the chance to do both as they drove the $9 million Bugatti Centodieci into its transport truck. Loading an expensive vehicle into a transport vehicle is not the easiest task. First, loading a car into a trailer is, as I said, not easy. On either side of the car, there's little room for error. Secondly, if the car is expensive, you have a lot of money on the line. So, as you watch the video above, just imagine how you would handle the situation. see all bugattis for sale

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