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 Andrew Nabors – September 25, 2018

Jamie Foxx Takes Delivery of Customized Vanderhall Venice

It has only been 8 months since Jamie Foxx took delivery of a new Vanderhall Venice. Since then, the factory in Provo, Utah has tripled in size to keep up with the backlog of orders. Their new custom shop has the ability to build your Vanderhall to order, so the talented Mr. Foxx had to see what they are capable of.Jamie Foxx And His New Vanderhall VeniceUploaded to his Instagram over the weekend, the new Venice arrived with some nice upgrades. The interior is diamond-stitched leather and the tires are more aggressive than earlier models. Black wheels and yellow calipers match the yellow accents on the body. A new rear fender for 2018 improves aerodynamics and keeps road debris out of the suspension.He is a savvy auto investor, as other items like his Rezvani Tank will also hold their value. The Venice is a bargain, as it offers turbocharged power for under $30,000. Driving one to the Orange County Auto Show last year, I can tell you they have shocking acceleration and incredible steering feedback. Click the link below to check out what's new for 2019, and stay with us for all your Vanderhall news.Button Text View this post on Instagram There is almost as much joy at rest as in motion with Vanderhall: @iamjamiefoxx taking delivery of his customized Venice. ?: @iamted7 @microtrilogy_films @daveophilly #vanderhall #theroadiscalling #escapethemundane #jamiefoxx A post shared by Vanderhall Motor Works (@vanderhall) on Sep 22, 2018 at 7:24am PDT Source: Instagram (@vanderhall, @iamjamiefoxx)

By Andrew Nabors – August 07, 2018

Porsche Driver Mark Webber and the GT2 RS

It would be a great honor to be chosen to race for Porsche. Their team doesn't make decisions on a whim. They followed the career of Mark Webber, analyzing more variables that we can cover here. In 1994 he was 18 years old. His friend let him drive a new Porsche 911, and he was hooked. His abilities as a driver and being able to work as a team member allowed them to win the World Championship in Bahrain.His thoughts on the latest 911 GT2 RS is that Porsche is never satisfied. The new turbo technology that holds the intake open during brief off-throttle moments allows the car to maintain power through a corner. This footage speaks for itself, so allow Mr. Webber to describe the feelings it evokes, and click the link below to find your new Porsche 911.Porsche 911 GT2 RS For Sale

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 Andrew Nabors – May 15, 2018

Jay Leno Drives Toyota Supra With Paul Walker's Brother

Everyone has an opinion of the 4th generation Toyota Supra. Their indestructible straight six engine will handle as much boost as you want, so most examples of the 1993 to 98 (MK IV) Supra specs have been modded beyond belief. To find a surviving example in good condition is nearly impossible, but Jay Leno seems to know the right people. See the Jay Leno Car Collection For this week's installment of Jay Leno's Garage, Cody Walker explained the Supra in fine detail. The youngest brother of the late Paul Walker, he shares his love for the Japanese automotive scene and also raises awareness for Reach Out World Wide. This charity organization helps communities rebuild after natural disasters, and it was only made public after Paul's untimely passing. A Supra in bad condition is worth a fair amount, so click the link below and find one for yourself. Stay with us for all your updates from Jay Leno's Garage.

By Andrew Nabors – May 10, 2018

Magnus Walker's Porsche 924 Carrera GT by Petrolicious

Who would have thought anything from 1980 would be collectible? Except for our friend Magnus Walker, who has a knack for finding rare Porsches. Petrolicious stopped by his LA warehouse to check out a 924 Carrera GT. Yes, the original Carrera GT name was bestowed on the 924 Turbo.Only 406 examples were built, mainly to homologate the Group 4 race team. Just in time for Transaxle Thursday, the 5-speed gearbox was mounted out back and connected to the clutch by a torque tube. The 4 cylinder engine was boosted with a larger turbo and intercooler to make 210 horsepower. To put that into perspective, the 1980 Corvette only made 190 hp. Since Mr. Walker knows more about Porsches than most enthusiasts, allow him to shed some light on the unloved 924 and click the link below to find one for yourself.Browse Porsche 924 For Salehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=319&v=QqAzugyCQEo

By Andrew Nabors – January 29, 2018

King Shaq Takes Delivery Of His New Vaydor

One of the best cars to come out of our hometown is the Vaydor. It is a wild 2-seater that is built to order by Supercraft Custom Crafted Cars. Master coachbuilder Amitcar Juarbe and his son Melvin have partnered with us for several shows, and the Vaydor captures all the attention. It is a blak canvas, allowing for more customization than any mass-production car.As such, King Shaq decided to get his on order back in August. The Vaydor rides on air suspension, which allows over 5" of adjustment. Florida isn't known for kind pavement, so the airbags allow the NBA veteran to ride in comfort. Just like his customized Kia from a few years back, seats and controls were personalized to fit his 7'1" frame. Size 22 shoes have a hard time with normally sized pedals, so the floor pan and lower dash received some "massaging". Just got my Vaydor @supercraftcars #custom #vaydor A post shared by DR. SHAQUILLE O'NEAL Ed.D. (@shaq) on Jan 26, 2018 at 5:11pm PST Shaq’s New Police Car is a Freakin’ HellcatShaq is also the king of hiding his Superman logos in plain sight, so we can't wait to see this one in person. Power comes from naturally aspirated or supercharged version of the Nissan VQ35 or VQ37, for years of reliability. Based on the proven Infiniti G37 chassis, you also have the choice of manual or automatic transmissions. After being behind the wheel of a few of their builds, we applaud Mr. O'Neal on this fine purchase. If you are interested in more details, click the link below for more details.Supercraft Custom Cars

By Andrew Nabors – October 31, 2017

Chevrolet Unveils Luke Bryan's Concept Suburban

Most people don't realize the power of a good name. Chevrolet does, and that is why the Suburban has been in production for 83 years. Chevy has been building trucks for a century, so they've pulled out all the stops for this year's SEMA show. To tap into the hearts of Country Music fans, Luke Bryan was asked to build his ultimate version of the 2018 Suburban.Top 10 Fastest Quarter Mile TimesIt was revealed in a press release last night, and the details are mouth-watering. Taking a page from his lyrics, it embodies the "Huntin', Fishin' and Lovin' Every Day" lifestyle. Starting where it counts, the offroad 35" tires are wrapped around 22" wheels. A suspension lift was installed for more travel and ground clearance. Instead of the stump-pulling 6.2 liter V8, Luke chose the 5.3-liter as a great compromise between power and fuel economy. It sends 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque to all wheels, and Chevrolet mentions it has been part of their lineup for 60 years. The modern 325 ci V8 shares nothing in common with the classic 327 other than being a Chevrolet option, but the sentiment and heritage are worth their weight in gold.To show off the extensive lineup of accessory parts, it was bestowed with a mesh grille, nerf bars, Thule roof rack, LEDs by Baja Design, and rod holders. The retro-inspired tailgate swings out, along with a full-size spare tire. A rear-facing 3rd-row seat with a fabricated footwell harkens back to the tail-gunner seats of Chevy wagons. Brembo brakes round out the package, showcasing a ton of options available at the dealer. It is just one of the 20 Chevrolet display vehicles at SEMA, so follow our coverage on Facebook for live feeds later this week. If you are looking for a great deal on leftover 2017 models, click the link below and stay with us here at Autofluence for all your Chevy news. Search Chevrolet For Salehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=No9rAthyBNc

By Edward Jones – May 31, 2017

F1 Drivers Take Aston Martins Out for a Race...With a Twist

Seeing an Aston Martin supercar racing around a Formula 1 circuit isn't that outlandish. However, seeing two Aston Martins racing around a circuit with caravans attached most definitely is outlandish...and downright hilarious to watch.In order to get ready for the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix in July, Red Bull Racing's Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen decided to have some fun with their practice laps. A Vanquish Volante was Ricciardo's car for the race, and a Vanquish S Volante was ready for Verstappen. Attached to the backs of these cars were caravans, and I can easily say I've never see an Aston Martin towing...anything...at all.Check Out - Top 10 Most Powerful Exotic Convertibles of 2017As the two take the corners, the caravans sway side to side, but manage to get back on two wheels by some miraculous force of nature. Eventually, after many laughs and close calls, the caravans fall apart in a glorious manner. Check out the antics in the video below and get ready for the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix.

By Edward Jones – March 02, 2017

Jamiroquai Singer's Green LaFerrari is a Beauty on Wheels

Through Ferrari Tailor Made, customers can have their Prancing Pony customized to their own personal liking. Just the other day I posted a video of a purple LaFerrari that was presumably made through Ferrari's customization branch. Today, I'm giving everyone a close look at yet another personalized LaFerrari, thanks to Marchettino.We first saw this car when it made an appearance at Goodwood back in 2014. Since then, it hasn't been spotted all too often. Marchettino recently spotted the car sitting in a Ferrari museum, right in the center. When Goodwood Road & Racing interviewed Jay Kay on his cars (you can view the full interview below), he said: "It gives the car a personality and uniqueness, and it deserves that."View LaFerrari Price & SpecsCheck out the videos below to see what might be one of the coolest looking Ferraris ever.Ferrari For SaleRelated Video - Jay Kay Talks About His Green LaFerrari

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – September 20, 2016

Could Paul Walker's Character Make a Comeback in Fast & F...

Paul Walker's character, Brian O'Connor, was noticeably cut short in the most recent installment of the Fast Franchise. Fans who mourned his untimely death in November 2013 have questions about how the franchise will continue on without him. According to a recent article from Entertainment Weekly, it's possible the franchise hasn't seen the end of the beloved Brian O'Connor.In the article, Walker's brothers, Caleb and Cody Walker, spoke about their brother's character returning to the films down the line, which could definitely be possible given there are three more movies already contracted. In the article, Walker's brother, Caleb, talks about a phone call he'd had with Vin Diesel in which they discussed the possibility of Walker's character returning. The brothers, the rest of the cast and Universal want to ensure that if the character does return, Walker's memory and image are respected.Fast 8 is scheduled for release in April 2017, and though the brothers stated O'Connor could appear "down the line" in the films, we be fans are wondering if he'll make an appearance in the new film. For now, here's a video of some great Brian O'Connor scenes from the movies.

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