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 Tyler Rampersaud – February 23, 2023

Bugatti Shows Off 4 Chiron Super Sports In Dubai

Bugatti shows off a quad-turbocharged quartet in the hypercar capital.

By Andrew Nabors – April 20, 2021

Bugatti Design Director Interviewed by Frank Stephenson

Great minds think alike Aside from Ettore Bugatti, only a few lucky designers have had the opportunity to sculpt a hypercar. Achim Anscheidt has blazed a trail for everyone to follow, so we're glad to see him on the latest upload by Frank Stephenson. This is Episode 2 of 'The Fate Creators', his series on all things automotive. In it, we learn the details of what drives Achim to such bold lines since joining the brand in 2004. Frank's career started with the Ford Escort RS Cosworth before penning the Maserati GranSport, MC12, Ferrari FXX, and F430 while at Pininfarina. After this, he left to join McLaren, where he was responsible for the Super Series. So we can also enjoy the 12C, P1, 675LT, 570S, and 720S lineup. Tell us which Bugatti is your favorite in the comments below and stay with us for all your Bugatti news. Browse Bugatti For Sale Image (C) Bugatti

By Andrew Nabors – April 16, 2021

Bugatti Tokyo Is Open For Business

East meets west in a gorgeous setting Perfection can't be rushed. Sure, there are Bugatti owners and fans in the land of the rising sun, even if Tokyo is on the other side of the Earth. This new dealership represents how Ettore's vision crosses all cultural barriers. Japan's hypercar scene is unlike any other, and their financial power players have longed to enjoy Bugattis in a proper setting. Getting a foreign car legalized in Japan is a tedious process. Because their import laws heavily protect their domestic brands, the Chiron was finally granted asylum last year. This Grand Opening yesterday allowed fans to enjoy a presentation on the values of the brand, and experience the composites found in each car. This occasion is just as significant as when Romano Artioili saved Bugatti. CEO of Bugatti and Lamborghini Stephan Winkelmann said: "This move into the Japanese market is perfectly timed for us, as customers can now enjoy the legendary Chiron hyper sports on Japanese public roads. This new showroom site in Tokyo is a home away from home, and we have complete faith that Sky Group embodies the passion and philosophy of Molsheim. We are delighted that Bugatti Tokyo will present our brand perfectly, not just to our Japanese customers, but also to a truly international clientele, thanks to the showroom’s unique location within Tokyo’s embassy quarter.” You now have a new stop on your Japanese vacation, so click the button to learn why a Bugatti is in your future. Browse Bugatti For Sale Images (C) Bugatti

By Andrew Nabors – April 06, 2021

How Romano Artioli Saved Bugatti

It took ambition to keep hypercars alive in the 90s The year was 1952, and a 20-year old enthusiast heard Bugatti was done. The old brand that spurred him to study Mechanical Engineering was no more, so he dedicated his life to changing the course of history. After assembling an army of investors and engineers, he purchased the brand in 1987. Moving the brand's headquarters from France to Itlay infused it with energy. With the factory located in close proximity to Lamborghini, Ferrari, and De Tomaso, the 240,000 square meter shop was home to the EB110. An homage to Ettore Bugatti, the car was way ahead of its time. A carbon fiber chassis held a quad-turbo 3.5-liter V12 than sent 550 horsepower to all wheels. It brought Bugatti back into the public eye, and attracted high-profile customers like Michael Schumacher. The car launched in 1991 and times were great until GM tricked him. After cooking the books to make Lotus seem profitable, Romano took the bait and paid £30 million for the struggling brand. Although his intentions were sincere, it drove him and Bugatti into receivership until his friend Ferdinand Piech decided to allow Volkswagen to absorb Bugatti as their flagship brand. The old man operated the largest Ferrari dealer in Italy, he was the first person to import GM and Suzuki, and he is happily retired at 88 years old. Without him, Bugatti would have been a page in the history books, so we applaud the brand for recognizing his efforts. Browse Bugatti For Sale Images (C) Bugatti

By Andrew Nabors – April 01, 2021

Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Test Drives in a French Forest

Two new hypercars take a path less traveled. If a tree falls in the forest onto a junk car, we will smile. If we see a Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport test driving through a French forest we will be envious. Driving great cars is what makes life worth living, so one lucky customer chose to take a new Chiron Sport and a Pur Sport into the Rambouillet. About 30 miles west of Paris lies a picturesque hotel that was once an 11th-century Monastery. Monks dedicated to piety and penitence would reconsider their career choices if they heard 1,500 horsepower ripping through the secluded woods. Although they have a similar name, these two cars have very different personalities. We first met the Chiron Sport in 2018. Compared to a normal production Chiron, the car is more visceral thanks to lightweight components and stiffer suspension. A few customers demanded more, so the Pur Sport is almost a completely different car underneath. It is tuned for maximum grip on the track and ultimate acceleration. They also endowed it with aggressive gear ratios and the most downforce of any Bugatti to date. Chiron Sport does not have a production cap whereas only 60 examples of the Pur Sport will be offered. Choosing between top speed and top grip is a tough decision, so tell us which Chiron belongs in your garage in the comments below. Browse Bugatti Chiron For Sale Images (C) Bugatti

By Andrew Nabors – March 30, 2021

Bugatti Celebrates 300 Chirons & Counting

A major milestone for the masters in Molsheim To everyone that said it couldn't be done, Bugatti is celebrating 300 Chirons and counting. This sparkling new machine is a Chiron Pur Sport finished in Nocturne. Accents of gray carbon and gunmetal make it unique among this limited run of 60 cars. Each Chiron Pur Sport carries a base price of 3 million euros or roughly 3.5 million dollars before any customization. For that, you will have 1,500 horsepower and 1,180 lb-ft of torque along with suspension tuned for the track. Trading off a bit of top speed for acceleration, the gear ratios are 15% closer to keep all four turbos happy. What this equates to is reaching 62 mph in 2.3 seconds, 135 mph in 5.5 seconds, and you will be at 186 mph in 12 seconds flat. It is hard to believe the Chiron is now middle-aged. The manufacturer has repeatedly affirmed that it will be their model without electrification, so perhaps that's one reason our dealers are staying busy. To see what separates the Chiron from lesser cars, click the button below. Browse Bugatti For Sale Images (C) Bugatti

By Andrew Nabors – March 02, 2021

Bugatti Divo "Lady Bug" Unveiled With Stunning Details

After three years of design and many late nights, the Bugatti Divo "Lady Bug" was unveiled with stunning details. In their most complex build to-date, the artists in Molsheim spent countless hours learning how to adapt a 2D pattern to the complex curves of the Divo. The diamond pattern proved elusive, as hand paint could not match the customer's demand for precision. Therefore, a resin transfer system was used along with graphite dust and several layers of tinted clearcoat. This process took over a year and added a few zeros to the car's price. Only forty examples of the Divo were offered with prices starting at 5,000,000 Euros. This one represents the final customer delivery along with unprecedented talents in paint and trim. Your Bugatti Chiron price and specs could be just as wild, so click the button to begin the adventure. Shop Bugatti For Sale Images (C) Ted7 & Bugatti S.A.S.

By Andrew Nabors – March 01, 2021

Is Bugatti Being Sold to Rimac?

If you can't beat 'em, join em! That is the motto behind Porsche's latest investments, which makes us ask if Bugatti is being sold to Rimac. Reuters reported over the weekend that Mate Rimac is launching a new round of fundraising. Industry journal Automobilwoche mentioned that Mr. Rimac is looking for an injection of around $181 million. Since Porsche already owns 15.5%, they could up their stake to 50%. This would be done by shifting control of Bugatti to Rimac, and it would still remain the flagship of a happy VW family. Not only would Bugatti's electric future receive a jump-start, and Lamborghini could also share in electric development. Are you ready to see a Bugatti with C_Two internals? Tell us your thoughts on this in the comments below. Shop Bugatti For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – February 21, 2021

Top 5 Bugatti Sales Of 2020

A rising tide raises all ships, and Bugatti is celebrating a year of records. Auction results from Gooding & Company along with Bonhams have surprised us, as the five most expensive cars have come from a single manufacturer. A press release from Bugatti gives extensive history on each car, so here are the highlights: 1934 Type 59 Sports: Sold at Gooding & Company London for $12,681,000 1937 Type 57S Atalante: Sold at Gooding & Company London for EUR 10,440,000 1932 Bugatti Type 55 Super Sport Roadster Sold at Bonhams Amelia Island for $7,100,000 1928 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix Sold at Gooding & Company London for $ 5,230,000 1931 Bugatti Type 55 SuperSport Sold in Paris for $5,070,000 Like all Bugatti for sale, each car has a story that could make an Oscar-winning screenplay. The story of yours starts with a blank page and a French supercar, so click the button to find your Bugatti. If you have been wondering what makes modern examples so coveted by collectors, check out the Bugatti Chiron price and specs. Bugatti For Sale Images (C) Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S.

By Andrew Nabors – February 16, 2021

Bugatti Bespoke Builds Begin With Jascha Straub

Ordering a car shouldn't be foreboding. Bridging the gap between the Atelier and the salespeople is one man, and that is why Bugatti bespoke builds begin with Jascha Straub. These are not mass-production cars. Since no two cars are alike, he is the focus of their latest press release. Ettore would be proud to know his legacy lives on. Built on the same historic grounds, Bugatti engineers and stylists are not confined. Because both groups focus on customer satisfaction, Mr. Straub is tasked by communicating each customer's vision to the artist and the craftspeople. Ordering a new Bugatti Chiron for sale is a process of deciding on a sub-model. The manufacturer only allocated enough materials to build 500 examples of the Chiron. The first special edition he was responsible for was the Chiron Sport, which consisted of the ‘110 ans Edition’ and Edition Noire. Those sold out quickly, making room for the Légendes du Ciel series. This pair is limited to 60 cars, split between the Super Sport 300+ and the Pur Sport. Experience Bugatti While not considered part of Chiron production, he was also pivotal in securing all 51 reservations shared between the Divo, Centodieci, and La Voiture Noire. The real question is how unique your Bugatti will be. Click the button above for inspiration and then give us a hint in the comments below. Images (C) Bugatti S.A.S.

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