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 Edward Jones – November 30, 2020

Prince's 1984 Purple Rain Tour Bus Heading to Auction

Back in 1984, Prince was venturing across the nation in a specially built 1983 Eagle Model 10 motorcoach for his Purple Rain tour. Now, Mecum Auctions is offering this very tour bus in their upcoming Houston event (Dec 3-5). As expected, this motorcoach's primary color is purple-- both the exterior and interior feature this color quite often. Mecum notes that its been a private coach since it was new and that it's never been used for commercial service. There have been a few additions since Prince owned it, including a 40-inch LED TV. One of the most important facts, other than Prince rode it in, is that it's in great condition. Inside and out, it's in great condition and is ready for road trips. If you're a fan of Prince and road trips, I don't think there is any better vehicle for your than this one right here. If you're interested, it will be crossing the block at Mecum's Houston 2020 auction, which runs from December 3-5. For more information, click the button below to visit Mecum's website. See on Mecum.com Image Source: Mecum Auctions

By Andrew Nabors – November 25, 2020

Nico Rosberg's First Drive Of Rimac C_Two

Last week we shared the news that he was embarking on a new journey. Going behind the scenes, the racing superstar extolled the virtues of a powerful electric supercar, and now we can witness Nico Rosberg's first drive of a Rimac C_Two. Nico Rosberg Builds New Rimac C_Two Mate Rimac and his team began by offering solutions for electric power to the world's biggest automakers. Now at the close of their first decade, they are empowered by learning how everyone else does it wrong. Having an objective look at the industry gives them freedom to change the rules, and it is this bold nature that caught the eyes of Porsche. Now with a 15% stake in the company, Rimac has done much of the legwork for the Taycan and even the Koenigsegg Regera. Nico seems to have a top spot on the reservation list, so stay with us on Rimac updates as their latest car approaches production. " width="680">

By Edward Jones – November 17, 2020

Zion Williamson's New Custom Ford Raptor is a Beast

NBA Draft Week is upon us and to celebrate, Dreamworks Motorsports shared a custom Ford Raptor that was delivered to none other than Zion Williamson on their Instagram. This Raptor comes packing a long list of custom features that were tailored just for Zion. This includes the red leather upholstery with custom embroidery, starliner with shooting stars and ghost lights, all of which feature Zion's logo. There's also a full JL Audio sound system with a custom enclosure that reads: "Let's Dance." Other custom modifications include the Addictive Desert Designs bumpers, Rigid Industries LED light bars, 22-inch Fuel Rebel wheels in gloss black, 35-inch Toyo OOpen Country MT tires, Icon Vehicle Dynamics leveling kit, full satin black wrap and more. This is truly a one-of-a-kind truck that's perfect for the NBA superstar. See All Ford Raptors For Sale Image source: Instagram/@dreamworksmotorsports

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 17, 2020

Join DJ Envy At The Drive Your Dreams Virtual Car Show

The current pandemic affecting the world is putting a hold on car events all over, leaving enthusiasts without their weekend fix of hyper and supercars. Music producer and co-host of The Breakfast Club, DJ Envy, is here to help with the first-ever virtual version of his annual Drive Your Dreams car show presented by Lincoln Tech and TopGear Imports. Source: DJ Envy Drive Your Dream Virtual Car Show The event will take place on November 28th, with viewing from 12 PM to 7 PM via the Eventbrite website. The show features an interactive family-friendly experience for all to see some of the hottest cars in the automobile industry. Join the virtual car show presented by DJ Envy, as he does full exterior and interior walkthroughs of his own and celebrity friend’s exotic cars. The vehicles range from Bugatti to Ferrari, and everything in-between, allowing for an up-close look at some of the details that only owners see. Buy Tickets Now Tickets for DJ Envy’s Drive Your Dreams Virtual Car Show can be purchased through Eventbrite for $9.99 as an early bird special or $29.99 for a day of general admission. A $49.99 VIP package is available and includes behind the scenes footage and a special gift package in addition to the event. In a world where car meets and shows are at a standstill, DJ Envy and The Drive Your Dreams Virtual Car Show are here to deliver premium content of the most exclusive cars straight to your screen, which has never been done before!

By Edward Jones – November 05, 2020

Marshmello's 6x6 Truck Was Stolen and Taken on a High-Spe...

Last year, in 2019, Marshmello received an absolutely insane Ford 6x6 truck from the Diesel Brothers. This monster of a truck is incredibly intimidating thanks to its enormous height and length. That's why it's incredibly surprising that someone stole Marshmello's truck and took it for a joyride. Even crazier is that the truck ended up being in a high-speed chase with police. One of the builders of the truck, Dave Sparks of Diesel Brothers, posted a video on Instagram of the chase which you can find below. He notes in the post that Marshmello actually texted him to tell him that it was stolen and involved in a chase. I can tell you that this truck would definitely not be an easy vehicle to use the pit maneuver on. See All Ford Raptors For Sale https://www.instagram.com/p/CHMuTOogCsg/?igshid=yl33wmbcv4h0 Featured Image Source: Instagram/@heavydsparks

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 30, 2020

Watch Bubba Wallace And Danny Hamlin Reveal New Jordan Car

Next season, Bubba Wallace will be driving the Toyota for Michael Jordan and Danny Hamlin’s 23XI team in the NASCAR Series. Bubba revealed the racecar that will be touching the tarmac sporting the iconic #23 in a red, black, and white design. The Toyota is currently open with spaces for possible upcoming sponsorships from Beats by Dre, Columbia Sportswear, and DoorDash. The partnership between Michael Jordan and NASCAR represents a push forward into the future, bridging the gap between different areas of professional sports. We are definitely looking forward to seeing Bubba Wallace race the new Toyota, as well as seeing Michael Jordan at the track. " width="680">

By Edward Jones – October 28, 2020

Former CEO of Patrón Spirits, Ed Brown, Talks Cars and Su...

Ed Brown once told his dad that he'd never get into the alcohol business. Well, Brown managed to become the CEO of Patrón Spirits and brought the company to a completely new level of success. But, he's more than just a successful businessman. You see, Brown went on to become a professional race car driver and race Le Mans Prototype cars. In the latest episodes of Varoom TV with Omar Periu and Scott Zankl, Brown sits down and talks about cars, motorsports, business and what it takes to be successful in all things. You can view parts one and two of the interview down below. They're definitely worth the watch because Brown has some incredible insight and stories that he's gathered throughout his life. What's more, the videos take place in the gorgeous showroom of Excell Auto Group in Boca Raton, Florida, surrounded by exotic cars. View Excell Auto Group's Inventory Part 1 Part 2 " width="680">

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 27, 2020

Ludacris Shows Off His New Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600

An increase in demand for luxurious sport utility vehicles has left manufacturers such as Mercedes-Maybach to design its version. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 focuses its efforts on providing ultimate comfort for the driver and passengers with features such as an active air ride for entering and exiting the vehicle. American-Gabonese Rapper, Ludacris, took to Instagram to show off his personal Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 presented in a blue and silver exterior with a sparkling white interior. The luxury SUV by Mercedes-Maybach is currently available with a starting price of $160,500 before options. Ludacris’ posts reveal that he is more than excited about the new addition to his fleet of vehicles. https://www.instagram.com/p/CGvPAIhBhKV/

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By Edward Jones – October 21, 2020

See Lando Norris Test Drive the McLaren Elva

Lando Norris, the Formula 1 driver and famous streamer, knows how to handle a car. If you don't believe me, just check out his podium at the 2020 Austrian Grand Prix. With such knowledge, McLaren let Norris loose on the track with the new Elva at Silverstone. During his time with the Elva, he learns all about the car and tries his best to repeat what he's learned. While his ability to repeat the specs isn't the best, he can definitely handle the Elva's 804 horsepower. I must admit, driving the McLaren Elva looks like such a great experience. The feeling of being so free and out in the open while you rip through circuits at blistering speeds has to be incredible. See it for yourself in the video down below. See All McLarens For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – October 20, 2020

Hoonigan Reveals Travis Pastrana's Subaru WRX Livery

After unveiling Travis Pastrana's Subaru WRX STi in bare carbon, we now get to see it all wrapped up with a new livery. The result is beautiful. Hoonigan took the Subaru with its new look to Subaru of America technical partner Vermont SportsCar’s headquarters located in Milton, Vermont. Underneath the livery is an extreme car ready for whatever Gymkhana or its racing future throws in its path. It's powered by a completely bespoke 2.3-liter Subaru Boxer engine with a billet block. The sound that this engine puts out is absolutely beastly. “This STI is unbelievable!” said Pastrana. “We’ve never had the opportunity to do this before, to build a car with no restrictions. Engine, suspension, aero—everything is unlimited, clean sheet. It’s crazy fast, easy to control and get sideways and it was perfect out of the box in testing. Gymkhana is a new challenge for me but I want to raise the bar, and this is the car to do it.” Needless to say, I can't wait to see Travis Pastrana and his new Subaru take on Gymkhana.

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