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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 Edward Jones – April 03, 2019

Billy Joel Stops by NMoto Headquarters to Test Fit His Ne...

Billy Joel has been known for decades as one of America's great singers and songwriters. He took the world by storm with his hit song "Piano Man," a song that will is hard to not sing along with, no matter your age. Unbeknownst to many is the fact that Billy Joel is also an avid motorcycle rider and collector. In fact, his love for motorcycles almost ended his music career. Back in 1982, he crashed a motorcycle, pulverizing his thumb and damaging his wrist. Thankfully, that didn't stop his music or his love for bikes. Just the other day, he took a visit to the NMoto headquarters to test fit his new Nostalgia bike. NMoto's new Nostalgia is inspired by the classic BMW R7 prototype. Unlike the pre-war motorcycle, the Nostalgia is fitted with modern features that make it a ride like no other. Billy Joel's new motorcycle is definitely going to be a great addition to his collection! visit NMoto.com Source

By Edward Jones – April 01, 2019

Rare Celebrity Classic Cars for Sale- Owned by Enzo Ferra...

Celebrity owned cars are a hot ticket in the world of automotive auctions. Being owned by a person of high-status can not only raise the prestige of the car, but also its value. Daniel Schmitt & Co. Classic Car Gallery knows just how desired celebrity cars are and have an inventory full of some extraordinary examples. I'm not talking about cars owned by current celebrities either, I'm talking about automotive legends. Their inventory has cars owned by the likes of Enzo Ferrari, Carroll Shelby, Steve McQueen and more. The history of these classic cars for sale is just as incredible as the cars themselves. Check some of them out by scrolling below. 1962 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 by Pininfarina (Enzo Ferrari's Personal Car) This Ferrari was held by the factory for two years and used by Enzo Ferrari as one of his personal cars. It was also the 330GT that was used in Ferrari press material, including the factory brochure. view price and listing 1983 De Tomaso Pantera GTS Owned by Carroll Shelby Carroll Shelby was the one and only owner of this Pantera. It was originally gifted to Shelby by DeTomaso. It was recently released from Carroll Shelby's personal collection, allowing it to be on sale at Daniel Schmitt & Co. View Price and Listing 1950 Hudson Custom Commodore Six Brougham Convertible Owned by Steve McQueen According to Daniel Schmitt & Co., this was one of Steve McQueen's favorite cars and he drove it on a daily basis. What's more, it only has 22,647 miles clocked on its odometer and is one of only 700 built. view price and listing 1954 Cadillac Series 60 Special Fleetwood Used by Marilyn Monroe In 1955, this Cadillac was purchased by the Yellow Cab and Limousine Co. in Twin Falls, Idaho. It was then assigned to be Marilyn Monroe's personal transportation during the filming of "Bus Stop" in 1956. Daniel Schmitt & Co. also note that it was used by Bing Crosby later on. view price and listing

By Edward Jones – April 01, 2019

Jason Statham to Star in New Saleen Commercial

It was back on November 30, 2017, the new Saleen 1 supercar was unveiled at the LA Auto Show. This new model started life in Germany as the Artega GT but was essentially completely redesigned at the hands of Saleen. It's been years since the Saleen 1's unveiling, but it looks like it's going to be back in the limelight. Famous actor Jason Statham recently posted an image on his Instagram of himself and Jonas Akerlund next to what looks like the Saleen 1. In the description of the post, Statham notes that he was actually shooting a Saleen commercial that's coming soon. Quite peculiar. Hopefully we will be seeing more of the Saleen 1 because we could all use a bit more Saleen in our lives. https://www.instagram.com/p/BvWjJMaBXnn/

By Edward Jones – March 26, 2019

The Rock's New Hennessey VelociRaptor V8

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is no stranger to fine automobiles. In fact, we've written about him plenty of times, like when he arrived to a premiere in a Pagani Huayra or when he surprised his longtime stuntman with a new truck. Today, I'm writing about his custom Ford Raptor: a Hennessey VelociRaptor V8. Instead of having a 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine, this truck has a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine. With this upgrade comes a long list of other additions, like a 2.9-liter supercharger system and various other mechanical upgrades. Now that is one tough truck. Congratulations to The Rock on the new addition to his garage! view hennessey's inventory Source: Instagram

By Edward Jones – March 26, 2019

Khalid Taking Fleet of BMWs to Coachella

Khalid, the famous singer, will be heading off to Coachella in a very special way: with a fleet of BMWs. More specifically, the fleet will consist of BMW i8s and i3s that have been custom wrapped in artistic designs. Inspiration for the designs are said to come from Free Spirit. The trip will be begin on April 11, 2019. Joining Khalid will be a group of hand-selected "influencers" and VIPs, who will be documenting the trip via the #RoadToCoachella hashtag. There will also be a #RoadToCoachella Palm Springs pitstop (April 11-14, 12-5pm). BMW says this will be a "one-of-a-kind experience with a special opportunity to connect fans with Khalid." view all bmws for sale

By Edward Jones – February 27, 2019

Rob Dyrdek Just Got a Stunning Ferrari 488 Pista

Rob Dyrdek, the famous skateboarder and madman behind Fantasy Factory, just picked himself up a truly beautiful Ferrari 488 Pista. The Rob Dyrdek's Ferrari 488 Pista was picked up from Ferrari Beverly Hills yesterday, and he was kind enough to share pictures of the car on his Instagram account. His example of the car is finished in a black paint with two silver stripes running down the center. Inside is a black interior with red trim. As a fan of the red and black combo, this is a dream car to me. It also helps that the 488 Pista's twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 packs 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. Congrats go to Rob Dyrdek on his latest purchase! view ferrari beverly hills inventory https://www.instagram.com/p/BuXwYkYn7Rr/

By Edward Jones – February 26, 2019

Jerry Seinfeld Suing Dealer Over "Fake" 1958 Porsche 356 ...

Not too long ago, news came out that Jerry Seinfeld was being sued for selling a supposed fake 1958 Porsche 356 Speedster. Associated Press is now reporting that Seinfeld is going ahead with a lawsuit against the California dealer that sold him the Porsche. Seinfeld is seeking "unspecified damages" from European Collectibles in his lawsuit in Manhattan federal court. He purchased the classic bathtub Porsche back in February 2013 for $1.2 million and sold it for $1.5 million in March 2016 to Fica Frio, the company who launched the lawsuit against him. When buying the Porsche and selling it to Fica Frio, Seinfeld has relied on a certificate of authenticity when he purchased it. The lawsuit notes that Seinfeld had never dealt with the California dealer before this purchase. Upon being sued earlier this year, Seinfeld had reached out to European Collectibles to demand that they resolve the dispute with Fica Frio. The lawsuit says that European Collectibles has refused such actions. What's more, the lawsuit alleges that Seinfeld's fake Porsche purchase is one of many. Within the lawsuit, they're pressuring the dealership to reveal the extent of their "fraudulent practices." Source: AP News ; Featured Image Source: Instagram

By Edward Jones – February 22, 2019

Drake Buys a Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet

Drake has just purchased a new SUV from Tony Bet at Driving Emotion Toronto, and it's a beauty. Drake has been a common occurrence on this blog due to his penchant for buying remarkable cars. His latest purchase for is a pretty rare one, and unlike many others he's purchased. Drake's new addition to his collection is called the Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet, which was revealed by Tony Bet on Instagram. Drake Performs Song With LaFerrari Floating in Air Mercedes introduced the Landaulet into their Mercedes-Maybach lineup as an off-road capable vehicle that's jampacked with luxury. When I say jampacked, I mean it. In the rear of the SUV, you'll notice an open-top, which resides over the incredibly spacious rear seats. Basically, the Landaulet is the Maybach SUV we never knew we wanted. Congrats to Drake on his new purchase! If you're interested in getting a Landaulet, click the button below to see what we currently have in stock. view mercedes-maybach landaulets for sale https://www.instagram.com/p/BuL1qCKgxxa/

By Edward Jones – February 11, 2019

Gas Monkey Garage Ferrari F40 Sells Again, For More!

Over the weekend, the sale of a very unique car happened. To be specific, the Gas Monkey Garage Ferrari F40 was auctioned off. This one-of-a-kind car has changed owners multiple times, but the most recent owner had it taken from them by the U.S. Marshals Service. After being taken, it was put up for auction and now I can say that it has another new owner. This time, however, it's sold for a good chunk. Find Your Own Ferrari F40 When it was first was put up for auction in 2014, Reggie Jackson put in a final bid of $742,500. In 2015, it changed hands again for $643,500, a $99,000 loss in value. More than likely it changed owners after that sale, but now, in 2019, it's sold again for $760,000. That's more than the original price! This news comes to us via Richard Rawlings' Instagram account. Rawlings also says that we will be able to see how it all went down on their upcoming season of Fast N Loud (season 15), which starts in June on The Discovery Channel. check out all ferraris for sale

By Edward Jones – February 04, 2019

Jerry Seinfeld Tests and Reviews New Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Jerry Seinfeld has spent his life around cars and has even made a new show that involves him driving them (see: Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee). One of the cars he's been quite obsessive over is the Porsche. Whether it be an older model or newer, he seems to have a passion for them all. In fact, he recently visited The Collection to test drive the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Seinfeld noted in an Instagram post that he was "very surprised at the progress from Gen 1 RS" in the 991.2 GT3 RS. He also said: "GT2 is more of an overwhelm of power, of course, but I think for the Pure 911 Obsessed, me, this is the better drive." Seinfeld ended his review by saying the GT3 RS gave him the "most precise Porsche experience ever." Of course, Seinfeld has been in the news lately regarding the sale of a classic Porsche. The new owner has stated that the car is "inauthentic," but we're still awaiting evidence to substantiate the claims. However, Seinfeld's lawyer, Orin Snyder, has said that Seinfeld is “is willing to do what’s right and fair." view the collection's inventory Related Video: " width="680"> Sources: Instagram, AP News

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