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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 – November 04, 2020

GTO Engineering Unveils Project Moderna

Many fans of classic Italian cars won't deny their love for the iconic Ferrari 250. In its racing from, (250 GTO) we have witnessed several new records in the value of the classic car industry That is why we are happy to announce that GTO Engineering has unveiled Project Moderna. You might remember their previous offering as the cover for our October issue. The Revival 250 SWB is sold through Manhattan Motorcars and it is a faithful homage to the original GTO. Discover the Cover – October 2020: Revival 250 SWB by GTO Engineering For Sale at Manhattan Motorcars For those who want a 21st Century experience, they turned to the latest in high strength steel. The tubular cockpit has aluminum subframes for the suspension to hold a body of carbon fiber. The latest in suspension geometry makes use of big brakes and wheels of a contemporary size. This will offer incredibly low un-sprung mass when compared to the classics along with incredible grip & handling. Managing Director Mark Lyon said each car will be made to order, with several options for gearbox and suspension. The engine will remain to be a quad-cam V12, albeit with modern internals for unprecedented power. He and his team have been working on this since 1991, and now they are poised to shakeup the Ferrari faithful. If you want modern performance with an iconic silhouette, contact Ferrari@gtoengineering.com or our friends at Manhattan Motorcars. Browse Inventory At Manhattan Motorcars

By Edward Jones – October 26, 2020

Ferrari Roma Takes Over New York With #ReadyToRoma Tour

If you happened to be in New York or Long Island a week ago, you may have spotted a Ferrari Roma or two traveling around. These Romas were actually part of Ferrari of Long Island's #ReadyToRoma tour. Brilliant photoshoots with the Romas as the subject were set up at some of the area's most prominent locations. These included Dumbo, One World Trade Center/The Oculus, The Shed, The Vessel, VIA 57 West, Hope Sculpture, Lincoln Center, The Cloisters, Bayville, Planting Fields Arboretum and Chelsea Mansion. Check them out for yourself in the gallery photographed by Michael Neamonitakis down below. You can also check out Ferrari of Long Island's inventory by clicking the button below. View Ferrari of Long Island's Inventory

By Edward Jones – October 08, 2020

Maserati MC20 and Trofeo Collection Presented by Maserati...

Maserati of Long Island and Gold Coast Maserati recently held an exclusive preview event for the new Maserati MC20 supercar and Maserati Trofeo Collection. Held at the prestigious Haut Bois Estate in Brookville, NY, guests were treated to a spectacular time. While sipping artisan cappuccinos and cocktails, they were able to gaze upon Maserati's new era of automobiles. This marked the New York debut of the Maserati MC20, set against an opulent and historic mansion on Long Island's famed Gold Coast. The star of the event had to be the new Maserati MC20. This new supercar has a sleek, stylish and bold design that takes inspiration from its predecessor, the MC12. The Maserati MC20 is powered by the all-new Nettuno engine from Maserati. With 621 horsepower and 538 lbs-ft at the ready, it can launch the MC20 from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and hit a top speed of over 202 mph. The Nettuno engine is proof that Maserati still has the chops to build incredible engines after a 20-year hiatus. The event even saw a rare appearance by a Maserati MC12, a symbolic passing of the torch to the new MC20. Also on display were the 2021 Trofeos: the Ghibli, Quattroporte and Levante. Donning green, white and red paint, they paid homage to their Italian heritage. Each of these models are powered by the Trofeo V8 engine that pumps out 580 horsepower. With the new Trofeo lineup, Maserati is bringing a new variant that will be known for its extreme performance paired with the style and luxury that Maserati is known for. If you'd like to learn more, be sure to click the button to view Maserati of Long Island's inventory or to contact them. View Maserati Inventory

By Edward Jones – September 22, 2020

Prestige Imports is Raising Awareness for Childhood and O...

September is both Child Cancer and Ovarian Cancer Awareness month. Prestige Imports in South Florida is helping raise awareness this month in many ways. Brett David, CEO of Prestige Imports, his team at Prestige and Ride2Revive are partnering with the American Cancer Society to fundraise for the Real Men Wear Pink campaign. To learn more or to donate, be sure to click here. Ride2Revive is a foundation created by him and his sister, Brooke. This foundation provides children suffering from cancer and terminal illnesses with unforgettable supercar experiences. These events are meant to distract the children from their health-related struggles and give them "miles of smiles on the road to recovery." You can learn more about Ride2Revive by clicking the button below. Visit Ride2Revive.org

By Edward Jones – September 22, 2020

Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Lands in Los Angeles at O'Gara C...

The new Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport has officially landed in the United States. More specifically, it landed in California at the dealerships of Bugatti Beverly Hills where it made its North American debut. "We are delighted to finally be able to present the Chiron Pur Sport physically after months of delay due to Covid-19. The new driving dynamics offered by the Pur Sport are a game changer for North American buyers attracting both current Bugatti owners and new prospects", says Cedric Davy, Chief Operation Officer Bugatti of the Americas. “The team at both Bugatti Beverly Hills and Bugatti San Diego are proud to present the spectacular Chiron Pur Sport. The Pur Sport, born out of Bugatti’s continuing driving force to design and build the best cars, has created one that can not only conquer the street, but also the most challenging of race circuits. Being Partners of Excellence we are truly honored to be an integral part of one of the most iconic automobile brands”, says Tim O'Hara General Manager, Bugatti Beverly Hills. After it's stay in California, the Chiron Pur Sport will head towards the East Coast where it will visit the Hamptons, Greenwich, New York and Florida. If you happened to be in any of these areas, be sure to stop by and see it for yourself, because this is a must-see hypercar! Bugatti Chiron Horsepower, Specs & Price

By Andrew Nabors – September 09, 2020

First SCG Boot Sold By Manhattan Motorcars

Our friend James Glickenhaus stays on the cutting edge of motorsports. Founded by his father, Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus is a race team and exotic car manufacturer. While his track cars are a testament to American ingenuity, we never could anticipate an entry into the Baja 1000. Having driven some of the toughest sections of the world-famous race, I know full well how hard drivers and their machines are pushed to their limits. Built to handle any terrain, the first SCG Boot has been sold by Manhattan Motorcars. Discover the Cover – October 2020: Revival 250 SWB by GTO Engineering For Sale at Manhattan Motorcars It is street legal in 49 states (thanks California), and uses the same design and chassis that won Class 2 in last year's Baja 1000. Behind the cockpit is an LT1 V8 offering the same 460 horsepower as the Camaro or Corvette Stingray. The transmission is the indestructible 4L80E, the same gearbox used in the Hummer H1 and all GM's heavy-duty 4WD trucks. With 19" of suspension travel and Fox Racing suspension it is comfortable on pavement and capable in the toughest situations. A/C, power windows, leather and Apple integration is standard, as are both powered seats. https://www.facebook.com/manhattanmotorcars/videos/10158817767620209 With 30 gallons of premium onboard, you could cruise across a few states before needing gas. Fully loaded at $ 287,500, it is a bargain given the development costs and capabilities offered. Because Manhattan Motorcars has a long history with the Glickenhaus family, they can order one to your specifications. Click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all your SCG news. Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – September 08, 2020

McLaren Orlando & McLaren North Jersey Unveil Spectacular...

Twenty-five years ago, the iconic McLaren F1 GTR challenged other racing veterans at the historic 24 Hours of Le Mans for the very first time. McLaren not only qualified but crushed the competition to bring home five finishes leading to the most successful debut in the race’s history. McLaren Orlando is Officially Open for Business To celebrate the original victory back in 1995, and honor Bruce McLaren’s memory, a limited-run of 5 GTR-style McLaren F1 cars were built for the road. These very special cars were not typical McLaren F1s; they were enhanced to create a tribute true to Bruce McLaren’s dream – to create a genuine race car experience on the road. Redesigned cam covers, and an engine tune provided more horsepower, while weight was reduced, and aerodynamics were improved, through the use of GTR-style bodywork. The cars were painted in Papaya Orange – to pay homage to the Can-Am sports cars of the 60s and the McLaren racing colors. The F1 LM cars are considered to be the fastest iteration of an already record-breaking McLaren, and with so few made they have become a highly coveted collectors’ car in the past quarter of a century. Now, to commemorate the Silver Anniversary of this historic win, and these iconic cars, McLaren Orlando and McLaren North Jersey proudly present the Senna LM – specially commissioned for the US market. Inspired by the original F1 LMs, this 5 limited-edition, bespoke Senna’s – painted in McLaren Orange – have had several factory upgrades to represent the epitome of the McLaren Senna’s true road capability. The most track-focused road car McLaren has ever built, the Senna has consistently set the fastest lap times of any McLaren to date. The new McLaren Senna LMs, commissioned by McLaren Orlando and McLaren North Jersey from McLaren Special Operations (MSO) in Woking, England, have the same power as the pure, track-only Senna GTR at 814hp. These exclusive Senna’s are more than just a bespoke paint livery, to pay homage to the original F1 LM cars these tributes feature upgrades such as: new polished ports and cylinder heads for the (more powerful) engine, OZ aluminum wheels, quad exhausts tipped in satin gold, bespoke aerodynamically-enhanced bodywork, a 24k gold heatshield, fully bespoke interior including Titanium Nitride foot pedals, racing centre locks, and bespoke LM branding for both the interior and exterior. McLaren Orlando and McLaren North Jersey are solely McLaren Retailers and offer some very exclusive vehicles – including these 5 Senna LM’s for the North American market. As Retailers, they are committed to bringing breathtaking performance and unparalleled experiences to McLaren owners, McLaren lovers, and their local communities. Browse Inventory at McLaren Orlando

By Edward Jones – September 02, 2020

Ferrari of Long Island Debuts the Ferrari F8 Spider at 'C...

Ferrari of Long Island recently teamed up with The MJS Groupe and The Baker House 1650 to put on a stunning reveal event for the Ferrari F8 Spider at 'Casa Ferrari - Hamptons.' When guests entered the sunken gardens of the estate, they were presented with a wide array of luxury goods and culinary treasures. From footwear by Jimmy Choo to sustainable faux-fur by Pretty Rugged Gear, guests had the chance to browse and shop. As for dining, there was a lot to choose from thanks to Chef Michele Casadei Massari, Southampton Social Club and Union Sushi & Steak. Libations were also on-hand, thanks to Simple Vodka, Rose by Out East and L E’ste champagne. While enjoying the drinks, guests could also appreciate the art installation by Aced Gallery featuring @SeekOneArt with custom paintings of Enzo Ferrari for this event. When it came time for the main event, the Ferrari F8 Spider was unveiled in a stunning Giallo Modena finish. It also featured blue brake calipers, silver forged wheels, and an interior in Blu Sterling with Giallo Modena stitching. The range of options on this car perfectly showcased Ferrari's ability to customize their vehicles to the customer's liking. Once the reveal was over, guests went home with a complimentary bag full of goods. This includes a hand-crafted model of the client's Ferrari with a carbon fiber base that holds a spot for a Ferrari key. They also received a few other luxury goods in their back like vehicle polishing cloths from Proshine Hamptons, Cohiba Royale cigars and even a Frette beach towel. Now that's how you put on an event. View Ferrari of Long Island's Inventory

By Edward Jones – August 31, 2020

1st Mclaren 765LT in USA Lands in O'Gara's Showroom

It was in March of this year that the new McLaren 765LT was unveiled as the British automaker's latest longtail supercar. This new addition to McLaren's Super Series lineup is an absolute stunner that's lighter, quicker and faster than the 720S. With 15 percent quicker in-gear acceleration than the 720S, the 765LT is set to be where many who are interested in a McLaren supercar will look. If you'd like to see one for yourself, you're in luck because the first example of the new 765LT in the United States has officially landed in the showroom of O'Gara Coach Beverly Hills. Below are some detail shots of the new supercar to feast on. Now, the supercar is at O'Gara Coach San Diego so be sure to contact them if you'd like to see it for yourself. If you're looking for a new McLaren for yourself, they can help you with that as well. Click the buttons below for more info. View Inventory Contact Now

By Andrew Nabors – August 26, 2020

Watch the 2021 McLaren GT Hits Route 66 Thanks to O'Gara ...

The Mother Road starts in Chicago and ends in L.A., and it was the path taken for millions to move west. Although it was officially replaced by interstate highways in 1985, the remaining sections are a perfect backdrop for a supercar film. That is why a new 2021 McLaren GT hit Route 66 thanks to our friends at O'gara Coach and McLaren San Diego. Browse Inventory If you haven't experienced McLaren's Grand Tourer, you are truly missing out. The GT was designed from the ground-up to provide comfort on long trips. With ample space for luggage and unmatched ergonomics, it is quite a departure from their previous supercars. Although rated at 612 horsepower, dyno numbers and quarter-mile time suggest much more. McLaren tests their engines in extreme ways that would never happen on the road. That is why the only maintenance you will need is a regular oil change. " width="680"> In a quote from their Instagram page: "Never let tradition hold you back. The new GT is living proof that craftsmanship evolves. It embraces innovation, new materials and technology. What remains is sheer quality." O'Gara Coach Blasting across this desolate highway with 465 lb-ft of torque must have been the ride of a lifetime. That's why you should visit O'Gara's CDC-compliant showrooms. With locations in Beverly Hills, Westlake Village, and San Diego, their inventory is unmatched by any other dealer. Click the button below to learn more and stay with us for more intriguing O'Gara films. About O'Gara Coach O'Gara Coach, established in 1976, has served Southern California for more than 44 years. When drivers want exotic and luxury vehicles, our selection is a great place to find the perfect fit. Whether you've had your eye on a particular brand or you want to come to our Beverly Hills dealership with fresh eyes, trust in our team here at O'Gara Coach. We help our Los Angeles exotic car and luxury brand enthusiasts discover so much more than simply a new car; we introduce you to a way of life that you can enjoy. We've helped our neighbors and friends with everything related to your automotive experience, and when you visit us, we'll make you our next success story. Browse Inventory.

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