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 – October 06, 2023

1-of-60 2022 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Listed For Sale

The ultimate driver’s hypercar can be yours. Bugatti’s hypercars are near incomparable when it comes to luxury, design, performance and exclusivity, and while that was true for the Veyron when it was introduced in the 2000s, the Chiron took it to another level, and introduced a family of models that showed different facets of the potential driving character of a Bugatti hypercar. One of the most intriguing was the Chiron Pur Sport, a model that focused on agility and driver-focused characteristics. One of the most alluring qualities of Bugatti’s modern hypercars is speed, with an immense 8.0-liter W16 engine with four turbochargers generating 1,479 horsepower to reach unthinkable velocities. However, the size and weight of both the engine and car hadn’t been seen as one meant for tackling corners and twists. The Chiron Pur Sport changed that notion. It shaved 110 pounds from the standard Chiron’s weight, in addition to adding advanced aerodynamics and tuning the engine for more spirited performance. However, the driver-focused hypercar was strictly limited to only 60 examples, meaning it’s one of the most difficult hypercars to get your hands on. However, duPont REGISTRY has been the source for supercars since 1985, and specializes in showcasing cars like these for sale. This 2022 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport for sale is available at Miller Motorcars in Greenwich, CT. With only 3,480 miles on the odometer, it’s in stunning condition, with a configuration that is motorsport-inspired and elegant, ready to fit into any exotic car collection. Its bodywork combines black and red, with a red number 16 on the horseshoe grille. Inside, an elegant interior features the extensive use of racing-inspired Alcantara in black, with red stitching showing off Bugatti’s excellent craftsmanship and echoing the exterior. If you’re interested in a unique, rare, driver focused hypercar, view the listing by clicking below. View Listing Image Source: Miller Motorcars

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 08, 2023

10K-Mile Two-Tone 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Coupe For Sale

Here's your chance to own a piece of Bugatti history.

By Tyler Rampersaud – August 24, 2023

Bugatti Hypercar Pedigree: EB 110, Veyron, Chiron & Divo ...

Explore a diverse selection of one of the world’s best automotive portfolios.

By Tyler Rampersaud – August 22, 2023

2022 Bugatti Chiron & 2023 Chiron Super Sport Listed For ...

Two incredible examples of one of the greatest hypercar legends are for sale.

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 08, 2023

This 1,479HP Ultra-Exclusive 1-of-40 2021 Bugatti Divo Is...

This a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own one of Bugatti's most exclusive creations!

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 31, 2023

Rare 1-of-84 French Racing Blue Bugatti EB110 GT For Sale

This is your opportunity to own a piece of Bugatti hypercar history!

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By Jordan Aquistapace – December 09, 2022

Record-Breaking 1993 Bugatti EB110 Super Sport Prototype ...

A chance to own an actual piece of Bugatti history. The Bugatti brand highlights automotive excellence through its historic line of high-performance hypercars, continuously striving to push the boundaries of speed and design. Launching the brand into the 20th century, the legendary Bugatti EB110 Super Sport made its debut just after the EB110 GT became the fastest production car in the world. The passionate professionals at Fort Lauderdale Collection South are proud to showcase this extremely special 1993 Bugatti EB110 Super Sports Prototype as part of its inventory of desirable supercars and hypercars. This magnificent EB110 Super Sport Prototype plays a significant role in Bugatti history as it houses engine (No.26), the actual powertrain that broke the speed record of 212.94mph. With only 36 examples ever built, this Grigio Metallic over Navy configuration is arguably the finest in the world. MUST-READ: The Best Bugatti Chirons You Can Buy Today The Bugatti EB110 Super Sport Prototype generates over 603 horsepower from a 3.5-liter quad-turbocharged V12 engine. Sprinting from 0-60mph in just 3.2-seconds, a six-speed manual gearbox works in unison with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. The 90s hypercar was ahead of its time in 1993 and will still go toe-to-toe with anything on the road. As it sits in Concours-ready condition, the Bugatti displays only 2,108 miles from new and is currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY. View all current Bugatti EB110 examples for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. View All Bugatti EB110 For Sale

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By Jordan Aquistapace – February 02, 2022

Check The Spec: A One-Of-A-Kind 2019 Bugatti Chiron

A chance to own a one-of-one 2019 Bugatti Chiron spec. The Bugatti Chiron continues its life as the predecessor to the iconic Veyron model, launching the manufacturer into a whole different level of design and performance. The team at HGreg Lux is proud to present this stunning 2019 Bugatti Chiron as just one of the many high-end luxury vehicles available in its growing inventory. The exterior of the Bugatti Chiron presents itself in a sophisticated two-tone white and black finish that accentuates the aggressive body lines of the multi-million dollar hypercar. The Chiron’s lightweight design is subtly highlighted with hints of vibrant blue that are incorporated into the badging, cowl panel, carbon-fiber side mirrors, brake calipers, engine covers, and retractable rear wing. HGreg Lux Opening the doors of this Bugatti Chiron reveals an all-blue interior design that celebrates the 110th Anniversary of the French automaker. Its minimalistic interior layout highlights the Chiron’s driver-oriented cabin, which also features state-of-the-art technology and driving dynamics to achieve an experience like no other. Delivering power to the Chiron is Bugatti’s famous 8.0-Liter Quad-Turbocharged W16 engine, capable of producing over 1,479-horsepower and 1,180-the pound-feet of torque. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission catapults the Chiron from 0-60mph in a mind-blowing 2.3-seconds. This 2019 Bugatti Chiron from HGreg Lux is currently available with 334-miles for $4,200,000. Click the link below to view the vehicle listing on duPont REGISTRY. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury hypercar news and releases. View Listing Source: HGreg Lux

By Edward Jones – September 02, 2021

Exceptional 1994 Bugatti EB110 GT Prototype For Sale

Presented by Copley Motorcars - Before the Veyron and Chiron, the EB110 was introduced as the brand's first modern supercar. After a hiatus that lasted decades, Bugatti introduced this model to shock the world and they succeeded. Powered by a quad-turbocharged V12 engine, the EB110's power output is rated at 553 horsepower. While that power may be below what you find in supercars today, it was an equal footing with other supercars made during that era like the Lamborghini Diablo and Ferrari F50. For sale right now is a 1994 Bugatti EB110 GT prototype that is in exceptional condition. It's finished in the striking Blu Bugatti paint with a light grey leather interior, both of which are spotless. Its pristine condition makes sense when you learn that it has been driven a mere 680 miles since new. It's not often that you find an EB110 GT for sale, let alone one in as good of condition as this one. This EB110, engine number 0041, was completely refurbished before it was delivered to its first private Swiss owner back in 2000. A few years later, it landed in the United States as it was brought into an imposing collection. Since it has been in private ownership, it has been kept in incredible ciondition, as you can see from the photos. This factory prototype Bugatti EB110 GT would make an incredible star in any collection, especially one featuring Bugatti's latest creations. For more information, be sure to click the button below to view its online listing. View Listing

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By Andrew Nabors – February 02, 2016

Why You Should Buy A Bugatti Veyron

If eight cylinders and two turbochargers are enough, this article isn’t for you. For those with more extreme appetites, sixteen cylinders and four turbos have been the state of the art for the last few years. They can be found in the Bugatti Veyron, and this is why you should own one.PowerYou will have almost 1,000 hp and 1,000 lb-ft of torque from idle to redline. This is possible because the 8.0-liter W16 engine uses Volkswagen’s innovative VR6 narrow-angle architecture to package sixteen pistons in a space not much larger than a Big Block V8. The ultimate evolution of this powerplant was launched in the Grand Sport Vitesse models, which were built from 2011 to 2015. With attention to detail in regards to intake and exhaust restrictions, they were able to make 1,200 hp and 1,100 lb-ft of torque. PerformanceThe aforementioned Vitesse can reach 62 mph in 2.6 seconds thanks to the Haldex AWD system. While capable of 267 mph, US versions are limited to only 233 mph.RarityOnly 450 Veyrons were produced, so your chances of seeing another one in traffic are next to none. Buy it, drive it, sell it for a profit. Whatever you do, don’t hide them away, these cars are engineered to be driven, and collecting dust is a disservice to the legacy of Ettore Bugatti and to auto enthusiasts everywhere. 2011 Bugatti Veyron View Listing 2006 Bugatti Veyron View Listing 2008 Bugatti Veyron View Listing 2014 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse View Listing 2008 Bugatti Veyron View Listing

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