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 – May 19, 2026

Watch Cleetus McFarland’s Corvette ZR1 Take on Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s Mustang GTD

Right now, an all-American battle is happening in the automotive world between two icons that continue pushing the limits of what’s possible on U.S. soil: the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and the Ford Mustang GTD. Both have officially stepped into supercar territory, delivering plenty of power at a price that still undercuts much of the exotic car world. But despite the specs and Nürburgring lap times set by factory professional drivers, there’s still one question left to answer: What happens when two regular owners line them up and go head-to-head with their own cars? Well, automotive YouTuber Garrett Mitchell, better known as Cleetus McFarland, and professional drifter and founder of RTR Vehicles, Vaughn Gittin Jr., just answered that question in a recently uploaded YouTube video. The whole idea came about when the two discussed meeting up for a casual track session at 10/10ths Motor Club in Concord, NC, which snowballed into Cleetus trailering his C8 ZR1 from Florida, and then went even further, questioning whose car would lay down the faster lap time. And before you make the assumption that the Corvette automatically has the upper hand with a 300+ horsepower advantage, the 1.7-mile circuit doesn’t feature long straights where all that power can be utilized.Cleetus’ C8 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 isn’t your average out-of-the-box spec, making 1,100 horsepower to the wheels thanks to upgraded downpipes and an engine ECU tune, which also happens to void the factory warranty. For Vaughn, his newly delivered Ford Mustang GTD remains completely stock in the performance department, with 830 crank horsepower and a sophisticated suspension setup that most definitely outshines Chevrolet’s in the corners. As the founder of one of the largest aftermarket specialists for Mustangs, he did in fact find a way to shed close to 9lbs with newly developed RTR wheels. The track day even brought out T-Pain and Hert from Nappy Boy Automotive, who ultimately became the trusted timekeepers, delivering the good and bad news to both drivers. After a quick 15-minute warm-up with a professional driver in the passenger seat, Vaughn Gittin Jr. set off first with Cleetus to follow after, in a traditional time attack race format of five laps to set the best time possible. And as for the overall winner… you’ll have to tune into the video below to find out for yourself.

Last Chance: Bon Jovi-Owned 1968 Ford Mustang GT500 Eleanor Being Auctioned

By Edward Jones – January 21, 2026

Last Chance: Bon Jovi-Owned "Eleanor" Being Auctioned

There have been countless Eleanor tributes over the years, but this example carries a level of provenance that sets it apart. With a story worth exploring, this 1968 Ford Mustang GT500 Eleanor is now crossing the digital auction block on duPont REGISTRY Live. What's the secret behind this example? At first glance, this Mustang commands attention with Pepper Silver paint and bold black Le Mans-style stripes that instantly evoke one of the most recognizable silhouettes in American automotive mythology. The Eleanor design, made famous by its role in the 2000 action film Gone in 60 Seconds, has become a must-have for collectors around the world and has inspired thousands of tribute builds. What sets this Mustang apart on the auction block is its previous ownership by rock legend Jon Bon Jovi, a layer of cultural resonance that adds narrative weight and collector appeal beyond typical spec sheets and body kits. <- Gallery -> In terms of the mechanics and specifics, this 1968 Fastback swaps its original 289-cubic-inch V8 for a beefier 351 Cleveland V8, paired with a traditional 4-speed manual transmission. Performance-oriented upgrades like Baer four-wheel power disc brakes and a Holley performance carburetor elevate the car’s capability well above stock ’60s machinery without sacrificing its character. Step inside and the cabin stays true to classic Mustang roots while tastefully acknowledging Shelby heritage. Branded seating, a wood-rim Shelby steering wheel, Simpson racing harnesses, and auxiliary gauges nod to both performance intent and bespoke craftsmanship. Although true mileage can’t be independently verified due to the nature of the build, the odometer reflects just 691 miles, underscoring how lightly this restomod has been enjoyed since completion. This auction ends today, so be sure to click the button below to place your bid. View Auction Listing

By Andrew Nabors – April 06, 2021

Hot Ones x Ford Mustang Mach E 1400 & Vaughn Gittin Jr.

Can you handle the heat? Ford has a new electric race car that is literally the hottest Mustang ever offered. In order to give us a preview of what to expect, Sean Evans sat down at Hot Ones across from Vaughn Gittin, Jr. One of the most popular shows on YouTube, Sean subjects celebrities to the hottest sauces on Earth without breaking a sweat. There is a fine line between heat, taste, and pain, and the Mustang Mach E drifts across while you beg for mercy. Unfortunately, Ford won't offer the sauce or the car to the public because both are insane. The regular production Mach E GT offers 480 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque with a range of 235 miles. Our dealers are selling them as soon as they arrive, so click the button to learn more and stay with us for all your Mustang news. Browse Mustang Mach E For Sale Images (C) Ford

By Andrew Nabors – January 11, 2021

Ken Block's Last Ride In The Hoonicorn Mustang

All good things must come to an end, so we're sad to share Ken Block's last ride in the Hoonicorn Mustang. By far, the most popular build from Hoonigan Industries, Mr. Block's decade-long contract with Ford has expired. The Blue Oval has not mentioned why they did not renew the deal, a shortsighted move in our opinion. Ken Block’s Hoonicorn Mustang Price & Specs As such, Ken and his team recorded a poignant farewell to their 1,400-horsepower beast. As the most popular car in Forza Motorsport, it has been raced against donks, diesels, and fast cars from around the world. Now that Ken and his team can shop for a new sponsor, Ford will hopefully allow the Hoonicorn to remain in the public eye. Stay with us for all your Celebrity car news. " width="680">

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By Edward Jones – October 01, 2020

Ken Block Builds a Vanilla Ice Inspired Mustang for His D...

Ken Block's daughter, Lia, is celebrating her 14th birthday in ice-cold style this year. For her birthday, Ken and his team built a mean Fox Body 5.0 Mustang that she would learn to drift in. The best part? The entire build revolved around Vanilla Ice's love for the 5.0 Mustang. In fact, Ken called up Vanilla Ice and got his thoughts on the build they were embarking on. After stripping the Mustang down completely, they then went to work turning it into a drift machine. From the new quick angle kit to the custom Borla exhaust, so much of this Mustang was updated with new components that will make it a drift monster. When presented with the new Icy Mustang, Lia was not too impressed considering she wasn't a fan of the car since it rolled into the garage. But it's all good because it's not actually her car but it will just be a drift car to learn on when she gets lessons from Vaughn Gittin Jr. The real owner of the Mustang is yet to be decided because Hoonigan will actually be giving it away. So, be sure to check back with us for more news. See All Mustangs For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – April 30, 2020

Batmobile Designer Creates a New Hoonicorn for Ken Block

The new Batman film is featuring an all-new Batmobile that's unlike any other before it. That's because of the man behind the design as Ash Thorp, a famous graphic artist and design. Thorp recently sat down for an interview with Ken Block and Brian Scotto to talk about what may be the next Hoonicorn Mustang. It was Thorp who designed the concept, which is based on the beloved Fox-Body Mustang. It's a wild creation that looks ready to go on a hooning adventure. While there is no word about them creating the car as of yet, Block does say in the interview that he's going to start looking into getting it created. Check out the interview down below to see some insight behind the design and the crazy liveries that Thorp designed for the "Hoonifox." Shop Mustangs " width="680">

By Edward Jones – February 19, 2020

Own the Same Mustang as John Wick

There is no denying that the John Wick movies are a blast to watch. The action is nonstop and downright intense, leaving you on the edge of your seat for the entirety of the film. Part of the action in John Wick films comes from the main character in his Ford Mustang Mach 1. Now, you can drive just like Wick thanks to Classic Recreations. Classic Recreations has been officially licensed by Ford Motor Company to build turn-key versions of the 1969-1970 Mach 1 Mustangs. These Mustangs come with all of the new technology you'd expect to see in a new car but with classic styling. What's more, they also offer a "Wick" paint scheme so the Mustang can look just like John Wick's. For more info, click here or the button below. LEARN MORE

By Edward Jones – January 10, 2020

The Original "Bullitt" Mustang Just Sold for $3.4 Million

Mecum Auctions has just auctioned off the Highland Green 1968 Ford Mustang GT used as the hero car driven by the “King of Cool,” Steve McQueen, in the iconic 1968 film “Bullitt.” After tense bidding that went back and forth between multiple bidders for quite some time, the final hammer price was $3,400,000. Yes, the original "Bullitt Mustang" sold for hypercar money but this is a one-of-a-kind muscle car that's truly an automotive icon. "The Bullitt Mustang is a car that extends far beyond being just another top-notch collector car," said Mecum Auctions. "It’s a car that was once thought lost to the passage of time, and with its reemergence, its unparalleled cultural significance has solidified it as a bona fide piece of pop-culture art and as an undeniable remnant of an incredible moment in movie and automotive history." You can watch the auction for yourself on Mecum Auctions' YouTube Channel.

By Edward Jones – January 18, 2017

The Rock Surprises Veteran With a New 2018 Mustang

Well, looks like I'm starting the day off with a few tears in my eyes...Marlene, a veteran, Purple Heart recipient and a fan of The Rock, was recently by surprised by both Ford and her favorite wrestler. In what looks like a sound booth, Marlene told her story to the camera while Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson watched from behind the stage. She thought she was just receiving a reward, but there was so much more in store for her.(Also Check Out - The Rock Buys His Dad a New Ford Explorer for Christmas)The Rock walked out from behind the stage to surprise a stunned Marlene with tickets to the Baywatch premiere, but that wasn't all. When she thought it was all over, he gave the signal for the curtain behind them to drop and reveal a brand-new 2018 Ford Mustang GT. This is when the waterworks really started... See for yourself in the video below and always remember to thank those who have served.Ford Mustang For Sale

By Edward Jones – October 21, 2016

Ken Block to Tear Up Pikes Peak in 1,400 HP Mustang Hooni...

Ken Block's new 1965 Mustang Hoonicorn RTR V2 is the definition of a road monster. Its V8 engine is twin-turbocharged, it's fueled by methanol and it has 1,400-freakin'-horsepower on tap. That means this little Mustang has more power than the Bugatti Veyron.(Related - Jon Olsson's Lamborghini Murcielago Gets Spiked Tires For Race Up Mountain)To show off the car's capabilities, Ken Block has teamed up with Toyo to take on the legendary and dangerous Pikes Peak road course. I say it's dangerous because five people have passed away on the course and massive crashes aren't uncommon. With such treacherous twists and turns, it's going to be quite thrilling to see Block take this monstrous Hoonicorn up 14,000 feet of road.Unfortunately, we'll have to wait until the Summer of 2017 to see the full run, but luckily Toyo Tires has released a teaser video for the event. This teaser can be found just below. Check it out!All Mustang For Sale

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