Celebrity Cars

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 – September 21, 2020

Watch Nyjah Huston Skate On Alex Choi's Rally-Ready Lambo...

What do you get when you pair professional skateboarder Nyjah Huston with a custom rally ready Lamborghini Huracán? The answer is incredible content. In a recent video posted by The Berrics, automotive YouTube star Alex Choi stops by the skateboard compound with his custom Lamborghini to test Nyjah’s skills. The Huracán, customized as an all-terrain supercar features an exterior roll cage, which is the perfect spot for the Olympic skateboarder to grind all over. Nyjah only needed a few warmups before successfully grinding the exterior of Alex Choi’s Italian supercar, with the event being captured by all in attendance. As if that would be enough, the duo decided to set up a photoshoot of Nyjah launching off a ramp over the Lamborghini. The video may be gut-wrenching for some to view, but Nyjah Huston is the best man for the job. View All Huracáns For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – September 10, 2020

Paul Casey is Now a Porsche Brand Ambassador

Paul Casey has been a force to be reckoned with in the golfing world for just over two decades. With accolades like being the world's number three, winning the Ryder Cup three times and also sitting at the Top 20, Casey is a name all golfers knows. With prestige, skill and some serious car knowledge, he was a perfect fit to become a Porsche Ambassador. “The name Paul Casey has stood for golfing excellence for around 20 years. He is also a likeable person with a clever mind who, through his bond with Porsche, knows how to sustainably transport the values of our brand. At the same time, the collaboration underlines the importance of golf for Porsche,” says Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG. “When I was a kid, I dreamt of two things: I wanted to become a professional golfer and to drive Porsche sports cars. I’m so happy at being able to live my dreams,” said Casey. “That my two passions can now be united is just fantastic. It feels such an honor that my relationship with Porsche has come to fruition.” Going forward, Casey's golf bag will now feature a Porsche logo. The first appearance of this bag will be at the US Open which starts on September 17. He will also be attending other Porsche event with his knowledge of golf and cars. See All Porsches for Sale

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 08, 2020

Lewis Hamilton Announces New Extreme E Team

Lewis Hamilton is known for two things, being incredibly successful in the sport of Formula1 and being passionate about the topic of environmental awareness. The champion F1 driver is directing his resources and knowledge to the growing world of electric vehicle racing. Lewis has recently announced the start of his new project Team X44, a racing team that will compete for a cause. Competitions such as the Extreme E Championship will be the stage to both compete and bring awareness to issues that are happening all around the world. The competitions are designed to take place all around the world featuring different climates using 4x4 race trucks powered by electric motors. Lewis acknowledges his excitement of combining his love for racing and the planet as a whole in a recent Youtube video introducing Team X44. Although he will not be directly racing in the events, Lewis is still thrilled to be apart of a new generation of racing. For more information on Lewis Hamilton's Team X44 click on the link below! Learn More " width="680"> Source: Lewis Hamilton / Team X44

By Edward Jones – September 04, 2020

Ken Blocks Drifts the World's First All-Electric Rally Cr...

Ken Block has proved himself as a top-tier drifter and skilled driver in many gasoline-powered vehicles. But now, he's proving himself in the world's first all-electric rally cross car. I'm talking about his Ford Fiesta ERX, which puts down 600 horsepower and over 800 lb-ft of torque. Because it's an electric car, that torque is ready in an instant. In the video down below, you'll see him whip this electric Fiesta around Höljes Sweden. Sure, watching the car drift and jump is exciting, but one of my favorite parts has to be Neil Cole's reaction during his ride-along. Check it out for yourself down below! " width="680">

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 03, 2020

Check out Joey Bada$$’s New Porsche 911 GT3 RS

U.S. rapper Joey Bada$$ takes to Instagram to show off his newest purchase from RDS Auto Group: a Porsche 911 GT3-RS presented in Lizard Green. He had recently picked up the highly desired supercar from Porsche of The Main Line located in Pennsylvania. Shortly after he uploaded a take-off video that could best be described as music to our ears. Of course, the first thing that anyone has to do when buying a new car is to show your friends. So, Joey Bada$$ made a trip to visit P. Diddy to unveil the GT3-RS. Diddy posted a picture on his Instagram of the two in front of the Porsche with a friendly caption. For more information on RDS Auto Group and Porsche of The Main Line’s current inventory click the link below. See Porsche of The Main Line's Inventory Image by @filmsbylevi via @joeybadass Image by @filmsbylevi via @joeybadass

By Edward Jones – September 02, 2020

Lewis Hamilton and Alicia Keys Team Up for 2021 Mercedes-...

Now that the new 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been unveiled in full, it's time for the German automaker to start pushing it out into the world. To do this, they're starting with the new ‘Cares for what matters’ campaign. Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, responsible for Marketing and Sale, described the campaign thusly: "The ‘Cares for what matters’ campaign goes to the heart of what truly matters in life. And that’s the people around us - who should always be safe and for whom we would like to have more time. In the new S-Class, we offer our customers the perfect place for that. It creates a safe space of contemporary luxury that can be enjoyed with all the senses, and where we are free to focus on the important things in life. That is ourdefinition of the new S-Class." In this campaign, Alicia Keys an Lewis Hamilton will be playing important roles. Their active participation and excellence in social activism made them perfect for this campaign. You will be able to see them in the 360-degree 'Cares for what matter' campaign starting in December 2020 on social media, online, and in print publications. There will also be TV ads and even more celebrity appearances. See All S-Class for Sale

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 01, 2020

Kanye West Gifts 2Chainz a Sherpa "Yeezy Mobile"

Being close friends with Kanye West would definitely lead anyone to believe that he gives great birthday gifts. Maybe a few exclusive unreleased pieces from his clothing line or a pair of his ever-popular Adidas Yeezy’s, but no one could have guessed what he planned on giving 2Chainz for his up incoming 43rd birthday. When 2Chainz woke up, sitting in his driveway was a custom 4x4 vehicle deemed the “Yeezy Mobile”. The two have known each other for quite some time considering they each have involved in the music industry for decades, even most recently working on a project together. The vehicle had a plaque mounted with a quoted bible verse added by Yeezy. 2Chainz took to Instagram to show everyone arguably one of the most unique gifts received as an early birthday present. Needless to say, all of Kanye’s friends will be checking the driveway on the morning of their birthdays. https://www.instagram.com/p/CEj73_slmmb/

By Edward Jones – August 31, 2020

Ian Poulter Hits Golf Ball Through a Multi-Million Dollar...

Last week, we brought you a video of Ian Poulter making a chip shot into the window of a Mercedes-Benz 4-Door GT Coupe. Now, we're here to bring you an even riskier shot made by the PGA Tour golfer. This time, he's making the chip shot into the window of a multi-million dollar Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta. What's more, he actually made the chip shot through both of the LaFerrari's windows. That's downright insane. These Italian hypercars can cost over $4.6 million, which would make the repair bill quite pricey. But, with years of practice under his belt, Poulter nailed the shot and let the ball fly through the Ferrari's cabin. Don't believe me? I don't blame you, but you can see it for yourself down below. See LaFerrari Apertas for Sale https://www.instagram.com/p/CEju7o-offq/

By Andrew Nabors – August 31, 2020

How Ferrari Connoisseur David Lee Convinced Ford to Sell ...

For everyone that has the means to purchase Ford's latest supercar, they must endure a stringent vetting process to be accepted. Not only must you have a history of owning significant Fords from the past, your social media accounts and morality will also be scrutinized. A video submission and essay go a long way at being accepted, but what if your garage is full of Scuderia Shields? This is how Ferrari connoisseur David Lee convinced Ford to sell him a new GT. An Interview With Magnus Walker on the 45 Years of Boost Still reeling from the success of Ford vs. Ferrari, Mr. Lee's incredible social media following @ferraricollector_davidlee/ would be a great way to showcase the latest Ford GT Carbon. Ford could not pass up the opportunity to have their blue oval in the center of his garage, so he was given the red carpet treatment. A team of Ford Performance concierges delivered the car and spent over an hour explaining the car's systems and the reasoning behind them. It is a win-win, as David adds diversity to his collection while Ford Performance receives an incredible endorsement from Ferrari's biggest fan. Thank you Mr. Lee for sharing this video, and stay with us for all your celebrity car news. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – August 31, 2020

Jay Kay Reviews 2021 Porsche Taycan Turbo S at Silverstone

Successful musicians need a way to relax once they're off the road; and our favorite artists are those who prefer incredible cars. As the leader of Jamiroquai, our friend Jay Kay was the first LaFerrari owner to utilize "Silent Start", settling rumors that the car was not a pure EV. In keeping with his love of high voltage, the manufacturer has uploaded his review of the 2021 Porsche Taycan Turbo S at Silverstone. Porsche Taycan Price, Horsepower & Specs While extoling the virtues of 750 horsepower at all wheels, he notes the ability to quick charge has changed the public's perceptions of EVs. The video flashbacks to his first experience riding shotgun in a prototype, and we see how far the car has evolved. VW is expanding their 800v charging networ "Electrify America" to have over 2,000 locations by the end of the year. Owners can also charge their cars at Porsche/Audi dealers across the nation. Click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche Taycan For Sale " width="680">

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