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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 – March 24, 2020

Ferrari of Central Florida Announces Unprecedented Donations

Because they strive to be ahead of the curve, Ferrari of Central Florida was among the first to offer remote test drives, and complimentary service pickup & delivery. Orlando is densly populated, which makes the spread of the virus potentially worse. However, the doctors and nurses at Advent Health are on the front lines to prevent anymore infections. That is why Ferrari of Central Florida along with the Triarsi family are donating proceeds from each car sold through Aprol 30th. Also, if you would like to donate without making a purchase Click Here. Help us spread the word and get more dealers onboard. Be safe. Browse Inventory at Ferrari/Maserati of Central Florida Contact Ferrari of Central Florida Website: ferraricf.com/ Email: sales@ferraricf.comPhone Number: 888-286-4238Address: 525 South Lake Destiny Drive, Orlando, FL 32810

By Andrew Nabors – March 18, 2020

Three 70th Anniversary Ferraris For Sale by Marshall Goldman

To celebrate seven decades building the world's most loved automobiles, Ferrari planned an epic anniversary. They turned back the pages to find 70 icons of the past, and replicated each one on a 2017 production model (GTC4Lusso, F12berlinetta, 488 GTB, 488 Spider, California T). Collectors around the world worked quickly to make them the centerpiece of their collection. Needless to say, you won't see an anniversary Ferrari in public, and we have only seen a few in the hands of Ferrari's VIP customers. Finding one for sale necessitates a purchase because cars with such provenance won't come your way again...unless you are Marshall Goldman. As with every other car in their inventory, these three cars are owned by Mr. Goldman. You need not worry about consignments or middlemen, this trifecta has your name on it. 2017 Ferrari 488 GTB 43 Miles Dino 206 Competitzione spec Yellow exterior, unique ink black interior leather, electric blue Alcantara carpeting, Click Here For Price & Details 2017 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta 1958 250 GT Berlinetta Spec Grigio Alloy Exterior & Interior 161 Miles Click Here For Price & Details 2018 Ferrari 488 Spider Blu Swaters over Ichiostro leather interior Inspired by 250 GTO 1964 inch spec 770 Miles Click Here For Price & Details Marshall Goldman has an inventory that will make your mouth water. Dont believe us? Click the link below and tell us your favorite in the comments below. View All Cars For Sale At Marshall Goldman Motor Sales

By Edward Jones – October 02, 2019

Back-to-Back Ferrari F8 Tributo Unveilings in Florida

The Ferrari F8 Tributo has made its way to Florida in spectacular fashion. Both Ferrari of Central Florida and Ferrari of Tampa Bay put on the unveiling in consecutive manner. First up was Ferrari of Central Florida who put on the F8 Tributo unveiling at Casa Feliz in Winter Park. Guests had a front-row seat on the front porch as the sheets were pulled back on the new sports car. They were then invited to take a seat in the F8 Tributo so they could get acquainted with its cabin. View Ferrari of Central Florida's Inventory The next night, Ferrari of Tampa Bay headed to Armature Works in downtown Tampa Bay for their unveiling of the F8 Tributo. The new Ferrari reveal happened in a private courtyard with an after-party taking place on the roof. Around 200 VIP guests attended the event before it opened up to the public. view ferrari of tampa bay's inventory

By Edward Jones – April 19, 2018

Ferrari of Miami Opens Up in South Florida

Ferrari of Miami, operated by THE COLLECTION, opened its doors to the public on Saturday, April 14th, as the only stand-alone Ferrari dealership in Miami-Dade County. The all-new 21,000 sq. ft. dealership facility is located at 1550 Biscayne Boulevard in Downtown’s up and coming Biscayne corridor. In addition to THE COLLECTION’s headquarters in Coral Gables, Ferrari of Miami is now conveniently located in the city’s vibrant media and entertainment district thus offering the local Ferraristi community an alternative location.The grand opening event was celebrated on Thursday, April 12th, where the all-new Ferrari of Miami dealership played host to more than 300 Ferrari enthusiasts. The event featured a display of the most iconic Ferraris of our time as well as the North American reveal of the all-new Ferrari 488 Pista, first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.“The opening of Ferrari of Miami makes THE COLLECTION one of the largest Ferrari dealers in the U.S., but that is an honor that was possible thanks to the relationships with our Ferrari clients throughout the years. My sincere appreciation goes out to all those that have supported us,” said Ken Gorin, President and CEO of THE COLLECTION. “Our vision has always been to elevate our client experience and strive to ensure customer convenience. So while our Ferrari showroom will remain in Coral Gables, and will continue to retail and service Ferrari, we wanted to add an additional, convenient option for those clients that live on the beach and closer to Downtown.” Gorin added.“It is now more than 25 years that Ferrari has partnered with THE COLLECTION in Miami, in the span of Ferrari’s over 60 years in the United States. Clearly, the Miami market has developed since then into one of the most important for Ferrari and rightly deserves this new facility to represent the brand and serve our clients accordingly. This is an important milestone and we wish Ken and the entire team behind THE COLLECTION continued success.” said Matteo Torre, President of Ferrari North America.Follow Ferrari of Miami on Instagram (@FerrariofMiami) for the latest updates. For more information, please visit www.FerrariOfMiami.com, or contact us at 305-476-2006.

By Edward Jones – November 07, 2017

Ferrari Offers New Certification for Official Dealers

Ferrari has nominated 48 official dealers in 20 different markets to be "Ferrari Classiche Authorized Workshops." Each dealer with the nomination will be known as an "Officina," allowing them to "implement the Ferrari Classiche certification process and ensure the correct maintenance and/or repair of Ferrari cars over 20 years old," according to Ferrari.The Most Extreme Ferrari is Now a RealityEach Ferrari Classiche Officina will be able to obtain support directly from the Ferrari Classiche department in Maranello, giving them access to all the necessary equipment needed for repairs. All work that's too extensive will have Officina ship the car out to the Ferrari factory. In return for having direct access to Ferrari Classiche in Maranello, the Officinas will have a dedicated workshop ramp and a trained Ferrari Classiche Service Technician that will be tasked exclusively with Ferrari Classiche duties. Below are the Ferrari Classiche Authorized Officinas located in the United States.• Continental Autosports• Ferrari South Bay• Ferrari of Atlanta• Cauley Ferrari• Ferrari of Houston• Ferrari of Austin• Lake Forest Sportscars• Miller Motorcars Inc.• Ferrari of San Antonio• Ferrari of Central Florida Inc.• Ferrari of Newport BeachUsed Ferrari FF For Sale

By Edward Jones – September 13, 2016

White Ferrari GTC4Lusso Arrives at Ferrari of Long Island

Just arrived at Ferrari of Long Island is a stunning white example of the new Ferrari GTC4Lusso. This new four-seater is powered by a 6.3-liter V12 engine, similar to the FF. Its power is rated at 680 hp at 8,000 rpm and 514 lb-ft of torque at 5,750 rpm. This power makies for a 0-62 mph time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 208 mph.Check out the images below of one of the finest examples of the new GTC4Lusso that we've ever seen.Ferrari GTC4Lusso Specs Engine: 6.3-liter V12 Horsepower: 680 hp Torque: 514 lb-ft 0-62 mph: 3.4 seconds Top Speed: 208 mph Dry Weight: 3,946 View Dealer Inventory

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – August 02, 2016

Ferrari Tampa Bay's Luxurious New Showroom

Ferrari Tampa Bay, Florida's West Coast’s only authorized Ferrari dealer, is currently undergoing major renovations scheduled for completion December 2016. The totally redesigned facility will better serve the demands of Ferrari of Tampa Bay’s VIP clientele, while beautifully showcasing the legendary Prancing Horse. The first phase of renovations includes the completion of a luxurious new customer lounge and a dedicated Ferrari preowned showroom.Ferrari For Sale Tampa BayPhase two of the remodel will see the completion of a new vehicle showroom featuring a designated Atelier for vehicle customization, based on the Atelier at the Ferrari Factory in Maranello. A second lounge, dedicated entirely to service clients, will ensure elegance and comfort for those who choose to wait on their vehicle. The multi-million dollar project will also include an exterior refresh with new corporate colors and signage. Ferrari Tampa Bay will remain open throughout the project.View Dealer Inventory

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – July 21, 2016

Our Ferrari Heritage Runs Deep: One of the Original Impor...

Algar is America's most storied Ferrari dealership, being one of the original importers of Ferrari since 1964. Chinetti, Garthwaite, Segal and now Aleks, the owners of Algar Ferrari have a deep history of importing and acquiring the finest vehicles in the world. One look at their inventory and you'll see stunning photos of the most carefully selected exotic vehicles, for the most discerning clients. The Sales Team at Algar provides an unparalleled level of personalized service in finding the perfect vehicle for you.You can tell Francis DeRuschi, General Sales Manager at Algar loves his career, “I’ve been ‘rooting for the red car’ since I was three feet tall. I’ve been fortunate to work at Algar since 1996 to find clients the car of their dreams. It is our never-ending passion here in iconic Philadelphia.”Below are a few highlights from their incredible collection, including some of the rarest Ferraris on the face of the planet.View Inventory Here’s a few highlights currently on the showroom floor! Ferrari 599 GTO Year: 2011 Miles: 7875 Exterior: Rosso Corsa Interior: Beige/Nera Price: $689,900 View ListingFerrari SuperAmerica Year: 2005 Miles: 3196 Exterior: Grigio Silverstone Interior: Nero Price: $459,900 View ListingFerrari 430 Scuderia Spider 16M Year: 2009 Miles: 2531 Exterior: Blu Tour De France Interior: Nero Price: $409,900 View ListingNot only do they love acquiring the world’s most exhilarating cars, they love racing! Join the Dealer Racing Team with a History of Wins at LeMans, Rolex Series and Sebring 12 HoursRacing is in their DNA at Algar Ferrari. They're blessed with a rich racing heritage among their historical owners, starting with Luigi Chinetti winning multiple 24 Hours of Lemans races (and the first ever in a Ferrari), to Jeff Segal who currently races professionally for Ferrari, winning multiple times in the Rolex Series and most recently taking 1st at the Sebring 12 Hours and 24 Hours of LeMans.The Ferrari Challenge Series, Corso Pilota Program, and the Ferrari Driving Experience are all open exclusively to Ferrari clients, and are supported by some of motorsport's best drivers and instructors.Contact them today to learn more about joining their Racing Programs at:Algar Ferrari of Philadelphia800.620.2939 or sales@algarferrari.com

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