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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 Andrew Nabors – August 02, 2018

"I Am Paul Walker" Trailer Released by Paramount

Life is short, so most of us try to make the best of it. But fate intervenes and often takes away our heroes. In the latest documentary in their "I Am" series, Paramount is telling the story of Paul Walker. Interviews with his friends and family are highlighted by footage of Paul in his younger days. Tyrese makes a poignant statement that implies he valued Paul's life more than almost anyone. It is scheduled for August 11th at 9pm (eastern) on the Paramount Network.Jay Leno Drives Toyota Supra With Paul Walker's Brother

By Edward Jones – July 30, 2018

The Rock Buys Longtime Stuntman New Truck

For Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's movies, he relies on his Tanoai Reed to do all of his stunts. Reed has been The Rock's stunt double since 2002 when they worked together for "The Scorpion King." Since they've been working together, Reed has "broken multiple bones, severed tendons, and torn ligaments, according to The Rock.Recently, Reed sustained an injury during his stuntwork and he's been recovering since. It's not fun recovering from a serious injury, so that's why The Rock picked this moment in time to repay Reed for all of the literal blood, sweat and tears that he's put into his movies. The Rock's gift to him was a custom Ford truck, complete with a massive bow on top.Mark Wahlberg Chevrolet Opens In Columbus, Ohiohttps://www.instagram.com/p/Bl2odVZnGE0/In order to surprise him with the truck, he asked him to be in front of the camera and talk about their careers together. But, when The Rock put his hands on his hip an Escalade moved out of the way and the truck was unveiled to Reed. After the surprising moment, The Rock handed him the keys.This isn't the first time The Rock has surprised someone with a car. He's surprised a veteran with a new 2018 Mustang and gave his dad a new Ford Explorer for Christmas.

By Edward Jones – July 30, 2018

Cardi B and Offset Get New Lamborghinis

Husband and wife team of Cardi B and Offset have just become the new parents after the birth of Kulture, their newborn daughter. And just three weeks after her birth, the couple is still makin' moves. The two recently posted pictures on their Instagram accounts of their latest purchases: a pair of new Lamborghini Aventador S supercars. Offset's Lamborghini coupe is finished in a bright green Verde Mantis paint, while Cardi B's Roadster is a vivid Blu Cepheus finish. These supercars were purchased from our friends over at Motorcars of Atlanta/Lamborghini Atlanta.Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Breaks Nurburgring Recordhttps://www.instagram.com/p/Bly2pXxhXrE/?taken-by=iamcardibLamborghini's new Aventador S Coupe and Roadster models are great upgrades over the standard Aventador models. Andrew Nabors of Autofluence noted this about the release of the new model: "The Aventador S arrives with 740 hp and 509 lb-ft of torque. A top speed of 217 mph is achieved by raising the red line from 8,350 to a screaming 8,500 rpm. The engine enhancements are a logical evolution of their potent V12, but other changes took us by surprise." Both Cardi B and Offset made great decisions in buying these cars.https://www.instagram.com/p/Bly3jP4nYrF/?taken-by=offsetyrn

By Andrew Nabors – July 26, 2018

Pro Golfer Paul Casey Warms Up With Porsche 911 GT3 RS

As a native Floridian, golf is a way of life for me. That's why we invited Paul Casey to our office after he won the Valspar Championship at a course near our headquarters. Now, he is preparing for the Porsche European Open, and Porsche allowed him to test the agility of their latest models.2018 Porsche 911 GT3 Specs, Photos, Price & ReviewIn a press release from Porsche, we learn he is ready to take on the world again. The event will take place at the Green Eagle Golf Course today until Sunday. Nearby is the headquarters for ADAC, Germany's largest car club. It has challenging tracks and offroad courses so members can push their cars to their limits, so Mr. Casey was allowed to see just how capable the new 911 GT3 RS really is. Then it was time for vertical adventures in a black 2019 Cayenne. If you want to experience what a new Porsche 911 is capable of, click the link below. Best of luck Mr. Casey, from all of us at duPont REGISTRY!Buy a New Porsche 911

By Andrew Nabors – July 19, 2018

New Paul Walker Documentary Premieres August 11th

It will be 5 years since we lost Paul Walker this December. The Fast & Furious star was lost in a tragic accident while his friend was behind the wheel. To celebrate his life, a new documentary called "I AM Paul Walker" is set to premiere on Paramount Network. The director behind the film is Adrian Buitenhuis, who has done similar films about Heath Ledger, Chris Farley, and Muhammad Ali.Jay Leno Drives Toyota Supra With Paul Walker’s BrotherParamount Network notes that it will cover his family life, charity work along with interviews with family and friends. These friends include Fast and Furious co-star Tyrese Gibson and director Rob Cohen. From beginning to end, the film will take you on a journey through his childhood, to his rise to celebrity status. The film will also detail the creation of his disaster relief NGO, Reach Out Worldwide.We're hoping this film also shows off some of the cars he amassed. His car collection was one of the most impressive in Hollywood and he did most of the stunt driving himself.Tune in to Paramount Network 9pm (Eastern Time) on August 11th and stay with us for all your Fast & Furious updates.https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=10&v=lqydf86XRIA

By Andrew Nabors – July 19, 2018

Mark Wahlberg Chevrolet Opens In Columbus, Ohio

Actor and entrepreneur Mark Wahlberg is known for his comedy and the tasty Wahlburgers restaurant chain, but his latest venture is one you might not expect. He met Jay Feldman, a Chevrolet dealer while they worked together on the 4th Transformers film. Most of the action was shot in Detroit, with a certain yellow Camaro playing the part of Bumblebee. Together they opened a Whalburgers in Cleveland and Feldman gave him the rundown on how to make a dealership profitable. Feldman has 5 Chevy stores, along with Hyundai, Kia and a pre-owned lot.When the opportunity arose to purchase the largest Chevy store in Columbus, they went in together to expand the business. Automotive News reports that the 15.5-acre facility has a 2-story showroom and 50 service bays. All 100 employees kept their jobs and the new owners are looking to expand sales and service departments.Mark said: "I am continuously looking for ways to innovate my brand and engage in businesses I am passionate about. I love cars, and the chance to work with an experienced, proven dealer-operator like Jay and represent an iconic brand like Chevrolet inspired me to get involved." Feldman will be the dealer principal, but Wahlberg is planning to be an active part of the operations. It is Feldman's 9th store, so we think this will be a nice investment for both of them. If you have been considering a new Chevy click the link below to find one near you, and stay with us for all your dealer news.See The USA In A Chevrolet

By Andrew Nabors – July 18, 2018

Chevrolet Awards All Star MVP With New Camaro

Are you old enough to finish this: "Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie &..........."? Its not a riddle, Chevrolet has been involved with Major League Baseball almost as long as they have been building cars. That's why Alex Bregman was given a choice between a new Colorado ZR2 or a Camaro SS. He is the All-Star MVP this year, and his home run at the top of the 10th inning was one for the record books.In a press release this morning, Chevrolet says he chose the car because he is giving to his mother. This 2019 Camaro SS has new exterior styling and the 10-speed automatic from the ZL1. Also borrowed from the supercar are the line lock and launch control systems. The Chevrolet Youth Baseball program is a partnership with the MLB and every Chevy dealer. They have donated over 150,000 equipment kits and setup over 1,800 youth baseball clinics across the country. Included with the press release are photos of Alex with Chevy's Vice President Brian Sweeny along with the Bregman family. Congratulations Alex on leading the American League to victory and getting mom a new car!Find Your Camaro Here!

By Andrew Nabors – July 18, 2018

First McLaren Senna Delivery In Detail

Yesterday our friend Michael Fux received his new McLaren Senna. Magnus Walker took a nice video and several spectators uploaded it to their social media pages. And now we get to see the process from McLaren's point of view. In a press release this morning. Michael Fux Delivered First McLaren Senna All McLarens enter the US through Baltimore, and from there this green machine was given white glove treatment in its travel to NYC. The color was chosen by Mr. Fux and McLaren Special Operations appropriately named it Fux Green. The color was applied to the 67 pieces of visible carbon fiber, inside and out. Even the door struts and the rearview mirror were included. It took 1,000 hours to build, and the car has other subtle touches like green contrast stitching and white leather. The Senna is just as spectacular as his 720S, which has every panel finished in Fux Fuchsia. Except in terms of power. The Senna offers 789 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque with less weight and more downforce. The result is 0-60 in 2.7 seconds with 124 mph arriving in only 6.8. President of McLaren North America Tony Joseph said: “We’re pleased to be here to officially deliver the first McLaren Senna in the North American market,” said Tony Joseph, President, McLaren North America. “This is such a special car – designed and engineered to be the ultimate road-legal track car ever produced by McLaren. We know that owners can’t wait to get their cars on the circuit, and we’re eager for them to get behind the wheel.” If you would like to get on the waiting list, check out these great offers from our dealers and stay with us for all your McLaren updates. Browse McLaren 720S For Sale Cool Cars For Sale

By Edward Jones – July 17, 2018

Michael Fux Delivered First McLaren Senna

On March 24, 2018, Michael Fux posted an image of his green McLaren P1 on his Instagram account. The description read: "I miss my @mclarenauto P1 but I got something real special coming." Well, it looks like we may know what he was talking about. Michael Fux's New McLaren 720S is a Gem https://www.instagram.com/p/BlVgNVvFtkR/ Magnus Walker, the Urban Outlaw, recently posted a video of a green McLaren Senna being driven into a private circle drive in the middle of New York, New York. When the car parked, the unmistakable Michael Fux appeared and gave the car a walkaround. Additionally, Hannah Elliott posted a photo on her Instagram story with a picture of the Senna and captioned it with: "First @mclaren Senna delivered now to Michael Fux at Bloomberg." And Fux has also uploaded a video of the car saying it's the "1st McLaren Senna delivered to US." https://www.instagram.com/p/BlVpWVEAA_1/ 2018 McLaren Senna Specs 0-62 mph: 2.8 seconds 0-124 mph: 6.8 seconds 1/4-mile: 9.9 seconds Top speed: 211 mph View All McLarens for Sale Worlds Coolest Cars For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – July 10, 2018

Ken Block's New Raptor Powered Boat

Everyone loves the Ford Raptor because it combines an economical V6 with twin turbos to make great 4WD power. But what happened to the 6.2L V8 from the first generation Raptors? Ford essentially scaled up their modular V8 to build the 6.2L Boss, and it is still an option for Super Duty trucks. While it won't fit in the Mustang, the boat industry has picked up on its durability.Ken Block Drifts Pikes Peak in 1,400 Horsepower MustangWhen he is not destroying tires in World Rally Cross, Ken Block enjoys wakeboarding. So he turned to Marine Products to build a custom Supra to his specifications. For power, Jack Roush strapped one of his patented RoushCharger on to a marinized 6.2L Raptor V8. Getting a wakeboarder up and keeping them there require massive torque, so this brutal inboard delivers 575 horsepower and 580 lb-ft to a custom designed propeller. It has closed loop cooling for long life and wideband O2 sensors for fuel efficiency. If you need Raptor power on land, click the link below and stay with us for all your Hoonigan updates.Browse Ford Raptor For Sale

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