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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 Jordan Aquistapace – August 11, 2026

Mike Tyson's Former Ferrari F50 Heads to Auction at Monterey Car Week

There’s no denying that Monterey Car Week is one of the most anticipated weeks on the automotive calendar, and with that notoriety and excitement from enthusiasts, auction houses bring out their very best to draw crowds of bidders and break records. For this year’s festivities, RM Sotheby’s has already teased an incredible lineup of supercars and hypercars, including Nick Mason’s 1996 McLaren F1 GTR prototype, a brand new 2025 Bugatti Mistral, and each of Ferrari’s ‘Big Five’ supercars. Tucked away in that fleet of five Maranello masterpieces is a 1996 Ferrari F50 originally owned by professional boxing legend “Iron” Mike Tyson, which will be auctioned off as part of The Monterey Auction on Saturday, August 15th. Estimated to bring between $7 million and $9 million, the Ferrari F50 has finally received the recognition it deserves, not only as the F40's successor, but as one of Ferrari's most important anniversary models. Finished in the Ferrari’s signature combination of Rosso Corsa over a Nero interior with red seat inserts, this US-spec Ferrari F50 rolled off the production line in early 1996 before making its way to Beverly Hills Sports Car in California. Tyson purchased the car shortly after reclaiming the undisputed heavyweight championship, making the F50 a celebratory gift to himself during one of the biggest moments of his career. While his ownership lasted less than a year, it's enough to make this example stand apart from the majority of F50s on the market. GALLERY-EMBED The story doesn't stop there either. Over the last three decades, chassis 104220 has passed through the hands of several well-respected Ferrari collectors, each helping preserve its originality and overall condition. Along the way, the car received meticulous servicing, including an engine-out service, clutch rebuild, lighting upgrades, a replacement fuel tank, and a recent major service completed by Ferrari of Newport Beach. Even more important to serious collectors, the car earned Ferrari Classiche certification in 2008, confirming its matching-numbers chassis, engine, transaxle, and bodywork. With just 6,196 miles showing on the odometer, it’s prepped for the next owners to enjoy more miles behind the wheel. Being one of only 349 Ferrari F50s ever built, the model has become one of the most desirable entries in Ferrari's celebrated "Big Six" lineup, with values continuing to climb as collectors recognize its Formula 1-inspired engineering, naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V12, and analog driving experience. This example takes things a step further with an impressive collection of factory items and sports memorabilia, including the original luggage set, owner's manuals, sales literature, hardtop, and even a pair of Everlast boxing gloves signed by Mike Tyson. As we prep for all the action of Monterey Car Week, it will be exciting to see just how much Tyson's name influences bidding on his former Ferrari F50 when the hammer finally falls at RM Sotheby’s. View Listing Source: RM Sotheby's/Photos by Robin Adams

A Giallo Modena Ferrari F50 sports car is parked on a stone driveway in front of a landscaped garden and large house, exuding elegance worthy of a Ferrari auction.

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 27, 2025

Ralph Lauren's 1-of-2 Giallo Modena 1995 Ferrari F50 Head...

With an auction estimate set between $6.5 and $7.5 million, this could be a record-breaking F50 sale. Recognized as one of the most iconic fashion designers in history, Ralph Lauren's success on the runway led to him acquiring and collecting some of the most sought-after cars in the world. While his brand is widely known around the world, so is his incredible car collection. A 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, 1930 Mercedes-Benz SSK "Count Trossi," and 1995 McLaren F1 LM make up just a small slice of his collection; you can only imagine what else remains behind closed doors. The team at RM Sotheby's is proud to announce that it will be featuring Ralph Lauren's former 1995 Ferrari F50 as part of its upcoming Monterey 2025 auction event. Jorge Guasso/RM Sotheby's Every passionate automotive enthusiast knows the story of the Ferrari F50, which is a nod to its 50th anniversary and the first supercar engineered without the guidance of Enzo himself. And with only 349 F50s ever made (Only 55 U.S. builds) and offered in five factory colors, there were bound to be some true unicorns within its production series. That's where Ralph Lauren's 1995 Ferrari F50 truly shines, being one of only two U.S.-specification F50s finished in Giallo Modena. The F50 was purchased new by Lauren and was held onto until 2003, when it was sold through Paul Russell & Company with just 3,300 miles on the odometer. Jorge Guasso/RM Sotheby's Since then, the Ferrari has remained in the hands of a single couple, avid Ferrari enthusiasts who treasured the F50 for more than two decades. The car made rare appearances at prestigious events like Watkins Glen and Cavallino Classic, but for the most part, it was a quiet gem in their private collection. Despite being driven occasionally, this F50 has always been exceptionally well maintained and is now being offered under 5,400 miles with a fresh service completed by Ferrari of Central Florida, including new tires, fuel bladder, and brake components. Jorge Guasso/RM Sotheby's With Ferrari Classiche certification, a documented no-stories history, and original components intact, this is one of the best-preserved F50s out there. Its connection to Ralph Lauren and its 30th-anniversary significance makes it even more desirable. For any collector searching for a top-tier F50, this is the kind of opportunity that doesn't come around often. View All RM Sotheby's Inventory Jorge Guasso/RM Sotheby's Source: RM Sotheby's

By Andrew Nabors – February 20, 2017

Mike Tyson's Ferrari F50 Heading to Amelia Island

Normally we would advise against buying an exotic car from someone with face tattoos, but this one is well documented. Ferrari's F50 was a 90's supercar in every way. Only 50 examples were sold in the US, so many enthusiasts jump at the opportunity to own one. Seeing one in person is a rarity altogether, so pack your bags for the Amelia Island Concours. Every March cars from around the world converge around the Ritz-Carlton for RM Sotheby's auction. This year's main event will be a Battle Royale among Ferrari collectors because this F50 was ordered by none other than Mike Tyson. "Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth". And you should have a plan to stop by our hospitality suite at the Concours.With only 5,694 miles the condition of the car speaks for itself. An engine out service addressed all the issues associated with long-term storage and also allowed this F50 to be Classiche Certified. So in addition to the hardtop storage crate, the winning bidder will also receive the "Red Book" detailing the provenance of the car. Essentially the F50 was a detuned Formula 1 car, making 520 hp and revving to 10,000 rpm. In order to hear the incredible engine at full power, the current owner swapped the factory exhaust for a Tubi high flow system. When the engine was out, new fuel tanks were installed and technicians rebuilt the water and oil pumps. It is being listed between 2.2 and 2.4 Million Dollars, so contact RM to place your bid and stay with us for complete coverage from Amelia Island.

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