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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 Jordan Aquistapace – August 26, 2024

$4.3M Yellow 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari For Sale At Ferrari o...

This is your chance to own a piece of Ferrari history! Pushing the boundaries and aiming to redefine the modern hypercar by adding an electrified power source, Ferrari's LaFerrari quickly gained traction as one of the most influential cars ever made. Competing alongside the McLaren P1 and Porsche 918 Spyder for the top spot in hybrid-assisted hypercars back in 2013, the LaFerrari remains a collector-grade example amongst passionate Ferrari owners and enthusiasts. The team of Italian prancing horse professionals at Ferrari of Alberta is pleased to showcase this stunning 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari as part of its extensive inventory of supercars for sale on duPont REGISTRY. View Price And Listing While most of the 710 LaFerraris (500 coupes and 210 apertas) came from the Maranello production facility, sporting classic Rosso Corsa finishes, this example showcases a head-turning yellow finish. Only nine LaFerraris are known to be produced in yellow, making up less than 14% of all configurations and adding an extra layer of rarity. Gloss black five-spoke sports wheels and matching yellow carbon ceramic brakes ensure that the LaFerrari is always race-ready for a spirit drive in the canyons or competitive track weekend. Focusing more attention on performance and aerodynamics, the Ferrari LaFerrari's interior comes configured in a sleek and subtle design with Nero leather and yellow contrast accents. Carbon sports bucket seats keep the driver and passenger safely secured for the ride of a lifetime. Along with tons of exposed carbon fiber, motorsport-inspired options also include adjustable pedals with a fixed seating position, a digital carbon sports steering wheel, and an array of dynamic performance settings. The Ferrari LaFerrari features a state-of-the-art powertrain that combines a 6.3L V12 engine with an electric motor, resulting in an impressive 950 horsepower and 663 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid system not only enhances performance but also improves efficiency. The LaFerrari can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just under 3 seconds and reaches a top speed of over 217 mph. This 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari from Ferrari of Alberta is now for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View Price And Listing

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 19, 2024

Legendary Rosso Corsa 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari Hypercar For...

While the Ferrari LaFerrari established a legendary status as a hybrid-assisted hypercar pioneer alongside the Porsche 918 Spyder and McLaren P1, it also holds the title as the endcap creation of Ferrari's 'Big Five' (288 GTO, F40, F50, Enzo, and LaFerrari). As time goes on and the auto industry continues its push toward electrification, Ferrari LaFerrari examples further prove their worth as investment-grade examples with sold units fetching almost three times its original $1.4 million starting price. The team of Italian prancing horse specialists at Ferrari Silicon Valley is proud to showcase this immaculate 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari as part of its inventory of exotic cars for sale on duPont REGISTRY. In true Ferrari fashion, this specific LaFerrari features the manufacturer's historic Rosso Corsa finish with exposed carbon trim components that add aero and cooling. A set of factory, five-spoke black motorsport wheels provide the traction, while paint-matched Brembo carbon ceramic brakes deliver the stopping power needed to secure the perfect lap time. Inside, the driver-focused cabin mirrors the styling of the LaFerrari's exterior, layering the carbon bucket seats in Rosso leather with contrasting black piping. Lightweight carbon fiber seems to be the main focus of the interior as it makes up almost every inch of the F1-inspired tub. With performance settings and controls within arm's reach of the driver, the Ferrari LaFerrari is better described as a road-legal race car. The Ferrari LaFerrari sports a massive 6.3L naturally-aspirated V12 engine paired with an innovative HY-KERS hybrid system, which comes with a two-year warranty that covers maintenance and the HV battery. In addition to processing a Classiche Certification, the LaFerrari showcases rare signatures by Piero Ferrari, Luca Di Montezemolo, Flavio Manzoni, and Amedio Felisa under the hood. The duo churns out an impressive 949 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque thanks to its combination of raw power and cutting-edge technology. The LaFerrari sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just under 3 seconds, with a top speed that breezes past 217 mph. This collector-grade 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari from Ferrari Silicon Valley is now for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View Price And Listing

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 09, 2022

Three Ultra-Rare Ferrari LaFerrari Specs For Sale At Ferr...

With only 499-units ever produced, Ferrari Quebec holds 0.6% of the LaFerrari market in its inventory. There are moments in history when an icon becomes a timeless figure for future generations to learn and love, and for Ferrari, one of its most influential examples is the electrified LaFerrari hypercar. Being the first-ever Ferrari to feature an electrically-assisted powertrain, the LaFerrari quickly gained traction within the industry and among its competitors. The result was a three-way battle between the Ferrari LaFerrari, McLaren P1, and Porsche 918 Spyder, commonly regarded as the ‘Holy Trinity in the car community. As the Ferrari LaFerrari standouts as a fan favorite for most, the exclusive series production began in June 2013 with the expectation of delivering 499 units in total. MUST-READ: Discover The Ferrari LaFerrari 3-Car Prototype Collection For Mecum’s Monterey 2022 Auction Event Of the 499 examples, Ferrari released 210 special Aperta variation that exposes the interior with a removable Targa top. Those looking for the rarest of the rare will need to search for the LaFerrari Aperta 70th Anniversary, to which Ferrari set aside 10 of the 210 Aperta models to celebrate its anniversary with a special auction. Introducing the Ferrari brand as a hypercar developer, the LaFerrari generates a combined 950 horsepower using its 6.3-Liter V12 engine assisted by a KERS electric unit. The passionate professionals at Ferrari Quebec are proud to showcase not one, but three astonishing Ferrari LaFerrari examples as part of its incredible inventory of supercars and hypercars. With 0.6-percent of the LaFerrari market in one showroom, the three examples sport unique configurations that differentiate themselves from each other. View the duPont REGISTRY listing for each Ferrari LaFerrari example for sale at Ferrari Quebec by clicking on the links below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury lifestyle and dealer news. 2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta 70th Anniversary Ferrari Quebec Mileage: 1,078 MilesExterior Color: Rosso CorsaInterior Color: NeroPrice: $6,226,900 VIEW LISTING 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari Ferrari Quebec Mileage: 714 MilesExterior Color: Nero DaytonaInterior Color: NeroPrice: $4,500,000 VIEW LISTING 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari Ferrari Quebec Mileage: 1,409 MilesExterior Color: Rosso CorsaInterior Color: Pelle RossoPrice: $4,299,900 VIEW LISTING

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 09, 2021

Check The Spec: 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari At Marshall Goldma...

An opportunity to own a piece of Italian hypercar history. The LaFerrari stands out as one of the most iconic hypercars in automotive history, with Ferrari developing a state-of-the-art 6.5L V12 Electric Hybrid powertrain. As an exclusive release with only 499 available chassis from the factory, Ferrari’s top clientele received the lucky opportunity to acquire and configure one. The supercar specialists at Marshall Goldman Beverly Hills are proud to present this stunningly stealthy 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari as part of their extensive inventory of hypercars and supercars. MUST-READ: Check The Spec: Ferrari Monza SP1 Finished In A Motorsport Livery The exterior of the Ferrari LaFerrari is finished in a gloss Nero paint scheme with carbon fiber ground effects that add to its aerodynamics. Continuing the all-black theme, this Ferrari LaFerrari includes a factory set of matte black race-style wheels that provide traction for the 949-horsepower V12 Hybrid powertrain. Opening the famous dihedral doors exposes the interior layout crafted from Nero genuine leather, which is incorporated throughout the sport-style Ferrari seats and carbon fiber dash area. This Ferrari LaFerrari is currently available with only 576-miles through Marshall Goldman Beverly Hills. Click the link below to view the duPont REGISTRY listing and to inquire on pricing for this 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury hypercar news and releases. View Listing

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