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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 – March 16, 2021

Insane Blue Carbon McLaren Speedtail Delivered By McLaren...

Now that McLaren Speedtails are starting to be delivered to their respective owners, we're seeing some incredible examples. One such example was delivered by McLaren Newport Beach and you have to check it out. This Speedtail was heavily personalized by McLaren Special Operations who turned it into a true one-of-a-kind hypercar. The exterior features a full blue-tinted carbon fiber body that has a special color fading effect. If you look in the pictures, you can see the fade being referred to. But it's not just the exterior that features this effect, as the dashboard also has a fading effect to match the outside. Acting as the cherry on top is a roof scoop that completes this Speedtail's overall look. This spec is an absolute home run, but that's expected when you're talking about MSO's capabilities. McLaren Newport Beach Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 08, 2021

Bare Carbon Fiber Aston Martin DBS GT Zagato Unveiled at ...

Here is an absolutely special treat, courtesy of Dimmitt Automotive Group. recently, the dealership invited us out to witness the unveiling of a very special car. With just our group from duPont REGISTRY and the owner's family, we were able to watch as they pulled the sheets back on a downright extraordinary example of the Aston Martin DBS GT Zagato. If you aren't familiar with this car, we'll explain as to why this model is so rare and special. Aston Martin debuted this car as part of their 'DBZ Centenary Collection,' which also included a DB4 GT Zagato continuation. In order to own one of these cars, you had to buy them both as a pair. When the owner of this specific DBS GT Zagato ordered his example, he went for a truly special spec. For starters, his example is actually one of the prototypes and still dons the same grille used during testing, as opposed to the black grille found on the other examples that have been delivered. What's more, this is the only DBS GT Zagato to have a full, bare carbon fiber exterior. While we do appreciate a cool coat of vibrant paint here and there, the carbon fiber exterior of this Aston Martin is mesmerizing. The carbon fiber is laid flawlessly with a herringbone pattern running right down the center of the supercar and its carbon badges. Honestly, we couldn't keep our eyes off of it. As for the interior, the owner went with a Dark Knight design that finishes off the shadowy appearance. Power for the Aston Martin DBS GT Zagato is provided by a V12 engine, which has an output of 760 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. When it roared to life on the showroom floor, we all couldn't help but be taken aback by the fierce and deep exhaust note that was emitted. With a new engine that engineers placed in before delivery, I'm sure the owner will have a great time breaking this Aston Martin in. While we were excited to see an Aston Martin DBS GT Zagato, we did not expect the example under the cover to be this special. It's a true one-of-a-kind and we can't thank Dimmitt and the owner for inviting us out their to witness the unveiling. While you may not have been there, check out the gallery below to see it in detail. View Dimmitt's Current Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 08, 2021

Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Showcased by Bugatti Newport Beach

It's easy to say that the Bugatti Chiron Sport and Chiron Pur Sport are two different cars, but in order to really understand the difference you need to get behind the wheel. That's why Bugatti Newport Beach recently hosted private test drive events that allowed them to showcase the differences between the two models, as well as the capabilities of the new Chiron Pur Sport. The Pur Sport was designed to provide a true driver's experience and that means the best handling possible. To do this, Bugatti had to make quite a few changes, like stiffening the suspension, lowering the top speed, reducing the weight and optimizing the aerodynamics. All of those changes combine to create an enthralling drive that's begging to be experienced. If you'd like to learn more about the Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, be sure to contact Bugatti Newport Beach or Bugatti directly. Experience Bugatti

By Edward Jones – March 08, 2021

Miller Motorcars x CCC Manhattan Showcase Ferrari Enzo an...

Classic Car Club Manhattan (CCC Manhattan) recently hosted Miller Motorcars as they showcased two iconic automobiles: the Ferrari Enzo and Maserati MC12. During this event, which was held in a COVID-friendly setting, guests were able to learn about each of these similar yet completely different supercars. Maserati developed the MC12 around the chassis of the Enzo and also features the same V12 engine. However, that's about where the similarities end. Both of the exquisite cars that were on display are currently for sale at Miller Motorcars and both are in pristine condition. The Enzo that's listed for sale has just 2,787 miles on its odometer and the MC12 comes in with 1,483. You can see them in detail in the gallery down below. To learn more, be sure to click the button below to view the listings of each car. View Listings Photos by Daniel Wagner (@CarsThatLookNeat)

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By Edward Jones – March 01, 2021

Insane Orange/Blue McLaren Sabre Delivered by McLaren Phi...

When the McLaren Sabre was first revealed, it took us all by surprise to say the least. Not only did we have no idea that the Sabre was going to be revealed, but we also had no idea that they would be making it U.S.-exclusive and that deliveries would be starting ASAP. One such delivery of the new Sabre was just completed by McLaren Philadelphia. The owner of this specific Sabre is none other than @sparky18888 who already has quite the collection of supercars and hypercars. His example is finished in orange paint with contrasting blue trim. Inspiration for the livery comes from the McLaren MCL33 Formula One race car. Sparky named his Sabre the "Storm," which is a fitting name considering this hypercar is lightning fast. Check out the images from the event, courtesy of @speedbooost. McLaren Philly Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 01, 2021

Tailor Made Ferrari 812 GTS in Oro Chiaro

Ferrari of Long Island recently housed a gorgeous example of the Ferrari 812 GTS that was completely personalized through the Tailor Made program. This program allows customers to create the Ferrari of their dreams through custom materials, paints, and a lot more. For the owner of this 812 GTS, they went with the Oro Chiaro paint, which translates to "Light Gold" from Italian. Inside is a black and gold interior that matches the exterior. The entirety of this Ferrari comes together in a luxurious manner. I have to applaud whoever personalized this Ferrari 812 GTS because they did an incredible job. To see all of Ferrari of Long Island's inventory, be sure to click the button below. View Inventory

By Andrew Nabors – February 26, 2021

2021 McLaren Artura Arrives at Miller Motorcars

Nothing like this has ever graced their showroom, so we're happy to watch the 2021 McLaren Artura arrive at Miller Motorcars. McLaren Greenwich is their flagship store, and the first example in North America is placed front and center. Flux Green is the new color, and it represents the efficiency of the supercar. The world's first 120-degree V6 offers perfect internal balance without heavy counterweights or an odd firing order. Coupled to a 7.4 kW hybrid drive, this featherweight is conservatively rated at 671 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque. At 3,300 lbs, the Artura specs offer the best power-to-weight ratio of any plug-in hybrid, so you should probably consider it for your new daily driver. Miller Motorcars offers the world's most exclusive inventory, so click the button to let the journey begin. Browse Inventory At Miller Motorcars Image (C) Miller Motorcars

By Edward Jones – February 19, 2021

The New McLaren Artura Will Be At McLaren Newport Beach T...

If you're as excited as I am to see the new McLaren Artura, you actually have the chance to view it in person this weekend. Our friends over at McLaren Newport Beach will be showing off the new hybrid supercar this weekend for all to see. They are, in fact, the first dealer in North America to receive the car (it showed up just a few hours after it was unveiled to the world). If you'd like to see the Artura for yourself, it will be on display in their showroom on February 21 (Sunday) which is located at 2540 W Coast Highway, Newport Beach, 92663. The showing time will be from 12 to 5 PM and it will be open to the public. If you like what you see, McLaren Newport Beach is currently taking deposits on the Artura. Be sure to stop by and say duPont REGISTRY sent you. View McLaren NB Inventory

By Edward Jones – February 11, 2021

Rolls-Royce Tampa Bay Hosted a Lavish Super Bowl LV Party...

Rolls-Royce Tampa Bay held an exclusive party for Super Bowl LV at Armature Works on Thursday, February 4. In total, 100 guests attended, each of them adhering to the safety guidelines and being socially distant. The guests were treated to fine dining and refreshments as the exciting guest speakers took to the stage, Michael Clayton and Anthony "Booger" McFarland. Clayton is a former Buccaneer wide receiver and a current ESPN personality. Booger McFarland has two rings on his fingers, one of them from the Buc's Super Bowl win in 2002 and the other from the Indianapolis Colts in 2007. Joining them was a special fleet of four vehicles from Rolls-Royce North America. Clients were able to take a personalized drive, allowing them to experience the latest offerings from Rolls-Royce of Tampa Bay, including the 2021 Ghost. To see their current inventory, be sure to click the button below. View Inventory

By Edward Jones – February 04, 2021

1 of 63 Lamborghini Sian FKP 37 Delivered to Lamborghini ...

Lamborghini Miami, a division of Prestige Imports in North Miami Beach has welcomed one of the 63 examples of the Lamborghini Sian FKP 37 to the United States in stunning fashion. The example was delivered to the South Florida dealership in a massive crate. In true Lamborghini Miami fashion, dealership CEO Brett David revealed this Sian FKP 37 to its owner in a private event surrounded by the dealership team and a series of V12 Segment Lamborghini vehicles. They made a true spectacle of it so the owner would never forget this car’s delivery. Although these are some quick photos and videos, the Prestige Imports media department plans to release a full documented video of the process! Don’t worry, we will upload soon! Upon opening, the Sian was revealed in all of its glory. The body is finished in Grigio Lync, which is contrasted by the vivid Verde Speranza trim. Bare carbon fiber pieces are also found across the body and act as the cherry-on-top for this stunning Sian. The Sian itself is a remarkable car that’s setting forth a new path for Lamborghini Automobili. With a hybrid powertrain that consists of a V12 engine and supercapacitors, this new supercar is truly groundbreaking for the legendary automaker. Its electrifying nature is not only found in its power but also its name– Sián translates to ‘lightning’ in the Bolognese dialect. The Sian FKP 37 lives up to its name with a lightning-fast top speed of over 220 mph. If you’d like to see more of what Prestige Imports has to offer, be sure to click the button below to view their inventory. View Prestige Imports' Inventory Image Source: @prestigeimports/Instagram

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