Corvette

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 – October 20, 2021

New 2023 Corvette Z06 Teaser Shows 8,600 RPM Redline And ...

Some exciting news from such just a teaser. Chevrolet has just released a new teaser for the 2023 Corvette Z06 and while it's short, it gives the world some juicy details. First up is the fact that there will be a Z06 convertible, which is welcomed news for many. In the teaser, the silhouette of the convertible top can be seen but closeup details aren't able to be seen. The next detail has to do with the tachometer. It all starts with the fact that the description mentions the specific timeframe for the reveal of the new Z06, which happens to be 8,600. And then in the video, the tachometer is shown to reach a redline of around 8,600 RPM. If you put these two together, it seems pretty clear that the new 2023 Z06 will have a redline set at 8,600 but that has yet to be made official. Chevrolet will be revealing the new Z06 through "Putting the World on Notice," which will be a 30-minute long reveal video. In the video, Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns and racing driver Emelia Hartford will join GM's engineers and designers to learn all about the new Corvette Z06. This film will premiere on October 26 at 12 PM ET. All Corvettes For Sale Source: Chevrolet

By Edward Jones – October 20, 2021

Meet the 60th Anniversary Cunningham Corvette, Limited to...

Presented by Cunningham Automotive Inc. - Briggs Swift Cunningham was an American racing legend, sportsman, race team owner, and Le Mans Mega-Star. Credited with creating America’s first modern sports cars after World War II and was responsible for manufacturing some of racing's most storied racecars – especially, the stunning 1952 Cunningham C4R & C4RK Le Mans racers and the Cunningham C3 grand touring sports car. In 1958, Briggs won both the American Driving Championship, as well as, piloting the “Columbia” to win the prestigious America’s Cup sailing race that same year! He dominated the American auto racing scene from 1950 to 1963 during which time, he also built one of the most competitive American auto racing teams in Le Mans History. The American auto racing community has much to thank Briggs for. One of his most lasting legacies was the creation of the “Racing Stripe” which he introduced; two blue stripes painted down the center of his white Le Mans racecars. The rest is history! In 1960 Briggs was asked by Zora Arkus-Duntov if he thought the Corvette could be competitive at Le Mans, and so an amazing journey began with Corvette’s first appearance on the World racing stage. Now known as the Cunningham Corvette’s – the three-car effort proved to the world that the Corvette was a true sports car. Car #3 finished 8th overall – winning its Class that year and enshrining it in Corvette Lore! It is that marvelous effort that we celebrate today with the introduction of the first new Cunningham Corvette in 60 years! Our new Cunningham C8 Corvette is a modern Supercar that starts life as a fully loaded 3LT package with Lingenfelter 603HP, 580 ft/lb LT2 motor, Unique Cunningham Aero Package, Halibrand Style Forged Aluminum Wheels, massive Alcon Pro-System Brakes, Z51 suspension, 8-speed DCT transaxle (with Performance Ratio rear axle), lift kit, Dual Tops (Body Color and Clear), Entertainment system with HUD, GT2 sport seats with Twilight Blue seat backs & Tension Blue trim and seat belt color scheme. Only 60 to be Built - Available Now $159,995 Visit Website " width="680">

By Edward Jones – September 27, 2021

2023 Chevrolet C8 Corvette Z06 Exterior Revealed

The full reveal is happening on October 26, 2021. Before the full reveal of the 2023 C8 Corvette Z06, Chevrolet has released the first exterior image of the American supercar. In the image, found above, we see a more aggressive take on the mid-engine Corvette. From the three-quarter front shot that was published, we get a good look at the front and side, but sadly no glimpse at its rear. In the front, we see a redesigned fascia that includes a new grille. Along the sides is where you'll find the new wheels, a bit of a side skirt, and a wishbone-looking detail for the side air intake. What remains to be seen is the rear and interior, and what remains to be heard is its supposed 5.5-liter V8 engine that comes with a flat-plane crankshaft. Be sure to check back with us on October 26th for its full reveal. See All Corvettes For Sale Source: Chevrolet

By Edward Jones – August 23, 2021

2023 Corvette Z06 Reveal Date Announced

And now we wait. Just a few days after seeing a video of the new 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 on the Nurburgring, we have now learned that the new Z06 will be unveiled on October 26, 2021. This news comes directly from Chevrolet who also shared a picture of a camouflaged 2023 Corvette Z06 alongside the announcing press release. Chevrolet notes that the new C8 Z06 was designed to "amplify the thrill of driving" and that it will perform on both "backroads or the Autobahn or the world's most recognizable tracks like Circuit de la Sarthe." After seeing that they've been testing the new Corvette Z06 on the Nurburgring, it's easy to see that Chevrolet is really pushing the new Z06's ability as a track day car. ©2021 Richard Prince via Chevrolet

By Edward Jones – August 19, 2021

2023 Corvette Z06 Spied at the Nurburgring During Tests

It sounds... phenomenal. Automotive Mike was recently at the Nurburging during Industry Pool and spotted what looks to be the new 2023 Corvette Z06. How can we tell? Well, there are a few differences that many will notice, with some being more obvious than others. First up is the large rear wing which is much more prominent than the C7 Z06's wing. Then there's the quad-exhaust setup that can actually be seen spitting a bit of flame around the corners. Automotive Mike also notes in the video description that this new 2023 Z06 also has larger air intakes in the rear bumper and a new front bumper design with canards. When it comes to power, Chevrolet has yet to release any details regarding the engine but every detail is pointing to the new C8 Corvette Z06 being one of the best sports cars in the world. While the powertrain may be unknown, what we do know is that it sounds great. Click play up above to hear it for yourself. See Corvettes For Sale Source: Automotive Mike/YouTube

By Edward Jones – July 19, 2021

Hear the 2023 Corvette Z06 For The First Time

What we've all been waiting for. When Chevrolet announced the C8 Corvette, there was one thing we all knew as certain: a new Z06 will be coming. It's inevitable, right? Well, our assumptions are becoming a reality as Chevrolet has just uploaded a new video to YouTube that lets us all hear the 2023 Corvette Z06 scream for the very first time. The automaker notes that the full reveal will be coming in the Fall, so stay tuned for more information as it's released. If you're looking for a Corvette of your own, be sure to click the button below to see what's for sale right now on duPontREGISTRY.com. See All Corvettes For Sale Source: Chevrolet

By Andrew Nabors – March 17, 2021

Help End Parkinson's With Hot Laps at the National Corvet...

Drive Toward a Cure is a great organization that needs your help. That's why we need you to help end Parkinson's with hot laps at the National Corvette Museum. A short drive from Nashville, it is located across the street from the Corvette Assembly Plant. Their world-class track hosts clubs and big events year-round, so you should be there on Friday, April 2nd. With all proceeds going to Vanderbilt Health Movement Disorders Clinic, you will have an opportunity for a day of fun with Team Corvette driver (and 5x Champion) Andy Pilgrim. The fee of $125 includes the ability to run your car on the track in 4-lap shootouts. No helmet required, and you can even bring your convertible! Those who want to enjoy a new Corvette C8 on the track will need $350, or just buy a new Vette and opt for Museum Delivery. Here's to everyone at Team Corvette for such a noble cause! Browse Corvette For Sale Images (C) National Corvette Museum

By Andrew Nabors – March 04, 2021

2020 Hennessey Corvette vs. Ram TRX

What happens when two powerful Americans meet at the Pennzoil Proving Grounds? Both have 6.2-liter V8 engines, so let's watch a 2020 Hennessey Corvette versus the Ram TRX. Both vehicles are in showroom stock condition to make this comparison as real as possible. Chevrolet is represented by the mid-engine masterpiece that sends 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. A supercharged Hellcat Hemi offers 703 horsepower and 650 lb-ft to all wheels, albeit at a serious weight and aerodynamic disadvantage. On paper its easy to assume who would win, so tell us which one you would drive in the comments below. RAM TRX FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – October 13, 2020

2020 Corvette Stingray vs. McLaren 570S: Supercars In Sec...

Our friend Matthew Jones is the Sales Manager at McLaren Tampa Bay. As a part of Dimmitt Automotive Group, many of us drive past one of their locations on our daily commute. Even though we live in Florida's most densely populated county, Dimmitt is the sole importer of English Supercars. That's why you will also encounter a healthy selection of new Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Jaguar & Land Rover to peruse. Their domestic brands are Chevrolet and Cadillac, so my CTS-V is allowed to share space with royalty when it's time for service. Given such a wide offering of new cars for sale, it is only natural that two mid-engine V8 sports cars come face-to-face. Such is the case as we see a 2020 Corvette Stingray vs. a McLaren 570S. The American is new, and selling for well over sticker, and the Englishman has been around since 2016. All things being equal, many would never cross-shop them, but a pre-owned McLaren 570S and a new Corvette for sale are in the same ballpark. McLaren offers 562 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque to the Corvette's 495 hp and 470 lb-ft. McLaren has a 7-speed dual-clutch that offers 22 mpg. Corvette has an 8-speed for 27 mpg. McLaren offers 5 cubic feet of cargo space from the front cargo compartment. Corvette has 12.6 from the front and rear cargo holds. This space is cut in half should you remove the top, a trick the hardtop McLaren can't perform. Corvette is heavier by 400 lbs because it has an aluminum spaceframe instead of the McLaren's carbon fiber monocoque. Usually, we can clearly see an advantage, but both cars have much to offer. That's why you should click the button below and choose for yourself, and allow Dimmit Automotive to put you in the car of your dreams. Browse Inventory At Dimmitt Automotive " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – July 07, 2020

Chevrolet Teases Gulf Livery for 2021 Corvette

Team Corvette won their 100th IMSA race on the 4th of July, at Daytona. In keeping with the patriotic theme, Chevrolet has teased a Gulf livery along with new stripe options for the 2021 new Corvette for sale. In a Facebook video uploaded last night, we saw a black car with red stripes, Polo White with Nassau Blue (Corvette's traditional racing colors), the iconic yellow made famous on the C5R, and a quick photo-negative from the infield at Daytona. Could these be options reserved for the upcoming Z06? Tell us in the comments below and stay with us for all your Corvette news. Browse Corvette For sale https://www.facebook.com/corvette/videos/664335897489092/

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