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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 – April 02, 2019

Prestige Imports: Spring Cleaning Supercar Shuffle

Even though Miami doesn't experience a harsh winter, it was time to clean to crank up and clean up the showroom inventory. Since it is the only location housing sun an impressive inventory, Prestige Imports Spring cleaning involves a supercar shuffle. Because Florida is humid year-round, it's a good idea to start your car at least once a month. Letting it warm up boils the condensation from the engine oil, keeping rust from forming on internal surfaces. Our friend Mike Supercars TopSpeed uploaded the action yesterday, and it includes multiple Porsches, along with a Pagani Zonda F & Huayra Tempesta. It is the only place to see a Lamborghini Centenario across from a LaFerrari. Their monthly Exotics & Espresso show will feature the announcement of this year's Gumball 3000 route, so stay with us for coverage of the event. Click the link below to check out the inventory, and make Prestige Imports part of your Miami vacation! Browse Prestige Imports Inventory Related: Gumball 3000 to Announce 2020 Route at Prestige Imports Announcing Prestige Aviation: by Prestige Imports

By Edward Jones – March 27, 2019

Gumball 3000 to Announce 2020 North America Route at Pres...

The Gumball 3000 is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. Yes, that's right, it's been 20 years since the first Gumball 3000 took place across Europe. The event had many celebrities attendance, including Kate Moss, Johnny Knoxville and Jay Kay of Jamiroquai. Since then, the event has traveled the world and this year's event is going from Mykonos to Ibiza. But what about 2020? For that, the team from Gumball 3000 will be traveling to Miami to announce the 2020 North American route. Specifically speaking, they will be holding the announcement at Prestige Imports. The announcement is being held during their Exotics & Espresso event on Saturday, March 30th from 10am-1pm. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by and see where the Gumball 3000 will be heading next year! view prestige imports' inventory

By Edward Jones – March 21, 2019

Excell Auto Group is Selling the World's Most Expensive S...

Excell Auto Group, located in Boca Raton, Florida, is currently housing the only example of the extravagant Karlmann King SUV in the United States. Born out of Italy, the Karlmann King is one of the most exclusive SUVs in the entire world. Additionally, it's the most expensive SUV you'll find in the world. The Karlmann King was inspired by a stealth fighter, an apparent inspiration when you look at the sharp edges and flat surfaces that are found on the exterior. When designing the SUV, the facets of a diamond also served as inspiration which translated into the multiple flat surfaces on the exterior. For those interested in owning such the Karlmann King in the United States, you're in luck. Excell Auto Group is currently taking orders on the SUV, which starts at $1.8 million. When ordering, customers will be able to completely customize their SUV, turning it into a true automotive expression of themselves. Each of the Karlmann King's will be completely unique and handmade, combining exclusivity with craftsmanship. The SUV can also be made with a bulletproof exterior. For more information, click the button below to contact Excell Auto Group. learn more

By Andrew Nabors – March 18, 2019

Braman Motorcars Opens Three New Dealerships in West Palm...

Dedication to excellence is how Braman Motorcars stays ahead of everyone else. In a press release this morning, General Manager Steve Grossman announced the simultaneous opening of three new facilities on Okeechobee Blvd in West Palm Beach. A stunning 35,000 square-foot facility is centered around a Luxury Pre-Owned showroom, with the Bentley showroom to the East and Rolls-Royce to the west. Mr. Grossman said: “Our confidence in Palm Beach County, and specifically West Palm Beach, is the driving force behind our investment in these new facilities” continued Grossman. We have been here for over 30 plus years and plan to employ more people and give back more to this community as we have in the past, for many years to come.” To make sure the cars are still the center of attention, the latest in LED illumination uses 80 fixtures to deliver over one million colors and light shows. The 6-story parking structure has 800 spaces, enough to hold half of their inventory. Anticipating the growth of electric models, 75 spaces have high-voltage charging capacity. This 4-year project was designed by Glidden, Spina, & Partners and built by Hedrick Construction. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 3rd, as the Grand Opening will host automotive royalty from 6-8pm. Christophe Georges, the President, and CEO of Bentley will appear alongside Martin Fritsches, President of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Braman has one of the highest customer retention rates in the nation, and they have been a fixture in our magazine since the beginning. Click the link below to browse their inventory and stay with us for coverage of the event! Browse Braman Motorcars Inventory Related: Braman Wins BMW Center of Excellence Again Braman Has Big Plans For West Palm Beach

By Andrew Nabors – March 13, 2019

Braman Motorcars Wins BMW "Center of Excellence" Award

If you have been considering a new or pre-owned BMW, Braman Motorcars is the place to be. After compiling surveys, inspecting the facilities, and evaulating customer satisfaction, Braman Motorcars has won BMW's Center of Excellence Award. This is a not an easy achievement, as BMW has 347 dealers in the US. A press release from BMW North America outlines the significance of it. "Braman Motorcars has earned this distinction for 2019 by consistently demonstrating exceptional sales leadership and outperforming their peers in several key business metrics. This is the second year in a row that Braman Motorcars wins the coveted award and the only BMW dealership in Florida to win the award in 2019." Congratulations to General Manager Steve Grossman and his 400+ employees for this award. Their locations in West Palm Beach and Jupiter are a must-see for any BMW enthusiast. Even if you aren't in the market, click the link below to check out their amazing inventory. Browse Braman Motorcars Inventory " width="680">

By Edward Jones – March 12, 2019

Luxury SUV Duo Shine Bright in California: The Urus and C...

When the world heard that Lamborghini and Rolls-Royce were creating SUVs, it was on its toes. How would the luxury of a Rolls-Royce and the aggressive performance of a Lamborghini translate into an SUV format? Those questions were answered beautifully when the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Lamborghini Urus were unveiled. The two are beautiful SUVs that were created with completely different DNAs. The Cullinan is regarded as the most luxurious SUV on the market, while the Urus is downright a Super SUV that offers raw power. Because of the uniqueness of these models, they have become hard to find since their release. Essentially, they are some of the hottest automobiles on the market right now. O'Gara La Jolla knows just how popular these two models are and they put together a photoshoot that showcases each of them in one beautiful setting. What's more, the two subjects of this photoshoot are actually up for sale on duPontREGISTRY.com. Given how popular and in-demand these cars are, it's worth acting fast if you're interested in owning one. Click the buttons below to learn more about each of these SUVs. view the urus listing view the cullinan listing

By Edward Jones – February 15, 2019

Take Part in the McLaren Thermal Track Experience 2019

Want to take part in an exclusive automotive event filled with English supercars? Of course you do! For that, we'd like to introduce you to McLaren Beverly Hills upcoming McLaren Thermal Track Experience. On February 18, 2019, from 8am-4:30pm, the dealership will be taking over the track for a high-speed event. The Thermal Club is a private world-class motorsports resort in California that many manufacturers use to test their automobiles. For this one day, guests will take it over and get a chance to test the limits of their McLaren. To RSVP, click the button below. rsvp now " width="680">

By Edward Jones – January 31, 2019

Karma Miami and Romero Britto Created a Wild Art Car and ...

Prestige Imports’ Karma Miami and Karma Automotive have partnered with world-renowned artist Romero Britto to create a one-of-a-kind 2019 Karma Revero. The car, which was originally created as an interactive piece of artwork for Ride2Revive’s 8th annual track event, is currently on sale at Prestige Imports’ Karma Miami for $170,000. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Ride2Revive organization, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that creates unforgettable and adrenaline filled experiences for children facing critical illnesses. Brett David and Romero Britto “My sister Brooke David and I felt that acclaimed artist Romero Britto was the perfect partner for Karma Automotive and Ride2Revive with this initiative,” said Brett David, CEO of Prestige Imports and Co-Founder of Ride2Revive. “In addition to being an exceptional artist, Romero Britto is also one of the most philanthropic figures in Miami and his artwork is synonymous with the city. The children at Ride2Revive really were able to relate to the bright and fun colors in his artwork and the partnership with Britto and Karma Automotive was a natural fusion of art and technology." The Revero is a luxury hybrid automobile conceived by the California-based company, Karma. When it was first introduced, this model was the first car to be sold in the United States that was powered by electricity, gas and solar. That's forward thinking. This collaboration combines art with cutting-edge technology from the as the Revero is one of the newest and latest hybrid luxury vehicles in the industry. The car is currently for sale at for $170,000.00 at Prestige Imports, located at 14800 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami Beach, FL 33181. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Ride2Revive. To contact Prestige Imports, be sure to click the button below. prestige imports' dealer page

By Edward Jones – January 08, 2019

Pair of Rare Porsche 911 GT3 Cups at Byers Imports: Two o...

Byer's Imports Porsche takes delivery of two Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Porsche Club of America Special Edition Racecars. Limited to just 5 examples worldwide, Byers Imports Porsche has received two PCA special editions, including the only example finished in the PCA 60th anniversary color, Club Blau. The PCA edition has performance enhancements not normally found on the regular-edition car. This includes a carbon-fiber "double bubble" roof; carbon fiber GT3 RS vented front fenders, carbon fiber GT3 R mirrors, GT3 R carbon fiber doors, anti-lock braking system (ABS), and a GT3 SuperCup exhaust. They are currently on display in the Byers Imports Porsche Showroom. view byers imports' inventory

By Edward Jones – November 19, 2018

Excell Auto Group's Halloween Party Raises Big Money for ...

For Halloween, Excell Auto Group and Self Love Foundation put on the inaugural "Slash Back to the 80's" party to raise money for current foster children in the state of Florida. Held in Excell Auto Group's showroom, the party included a performance by Nytro Men Group, LovestruckRobot, Graffiti Artistry on Tequila Patrón bottles, silent auction items, rollerbladers, fun-themed cocktails and more. When the party was all said and done, they had raised over $100,000 to benefit fotser children in Florida. “Ed and I are so grateful for the overwhelming support at our first annual Slashback to the 80’s party!” shared AshleyBrown, CEO & Founder of Selfless Love Foundation. “Due to the selfless support of our sponsors and guests, the entire night was underwritten and 100% of the proceeds will go directly to improving the lives of foster youth.” Selfless Love Foundation will also host their Second Annual Gala on April 27, 2019, at the Norton Museum in West Palm Beach, Florida. For more information, click here.

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