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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 – January 29, 2018

Welcome to McLaren Newport Beach

Dealership story McLaren Newport Beach is extremely proud to be the factory authorized McLaren dealer for Orange County in California. Opened in January 2010, McLaren Newport Beach quickly became one of the largest McLaren dealerships in the country. McLaren Newport Beach was confirmed to be the #1 McLaren dealer in the United States. Today, we are one of the most recognized dealerships in the McLaren network and are proud to serve our VIP clients. Our mission is to offer clients the best luxury car buying experience possible. We pride ourselves on offering our clients the best selection of new and pre-owned exotics in the nation - each hand picked by our staff. Our team combines over 40 years of experience with McLaren and is eager to introduce you to the McLaren lifestyle. Our dedicated team members are on hand to ensure your McLaren ownership experience is meaningful, memorable, and enjoyable. Sales and FinanceThe experience of owning a McLaren is made possible thanks to the men and women in Surrey - Woking of the United Kingdom. From there, each of our clients receives a personalized experience from initial contact to drive off. We look forward to showing you the McLaren Lifestyle Experience. VIP EventsThe team at McLaren Newport Beach excel at crafting special events and product unveilings for our clients. Each event is crafted to extend the passion and performance of the brand while engaging our VIP clients in an ultra-luxurious selling. VIP events are scheduled throughout the year for your pleasure. DrivesFrom casual cruises to weekend-long getaways, we love giving our clients reasons to drive their McLarens. For those wanting to take the experience to 11, we regularly host Track Days which allow our clients to develop an intimate relationship with their McLaren in a fun and safe environment regardless of skill level. Service and PartsMcLaren Newport Beach is proud to be OEM Certified in maintaining, servicing, repairing, and upgrading your McLaren. Our McLaren Certified Technicians receive on-going training to be up-to-date in technology. Our facility is certified to service & repair the McLaren P1. Our Parts Department has one of the largest inventories in the nation. You can count on us for your McLaren needs.Visit McLarenNB.com

By Edward Jones – December 07, 2017

McLaren Beverly Hills Now Part of O'Gara Family

The O'Gara family has announced that the McLaren Beverly Hills franchise is now under their wing. This dealership will be part of O'Gara Beverly Hills and is located on Wilshire Blvd. As part of the new acquisition, McLaren Beverly Hills is getting a brand-new showroom.Why You Should Buy A McLaren 720SO'Gara will be celebrating the new addition to their family at their Sunset GT Cars and Coffee on Sunday, December 10th at 9am. This event takes place at Sunset Plaza, where some of the country's finest cars will be on display. Additionally, all McLaren drivers will have dedicated parking spots in what O'Gara is calling a "prime location."

By Edward Jones – August 14, 2017

MSO White/Black/Orange McLaren 675LT for Sale

McLaren Newport Beach is pleased to present for sale this gorgeous 2016 McLaren 675LT Spider that is showroom like-new condition and loaded with matte Carbon Fiber options inside and out. This particular unit also features some beautiful touches completed by McLaren Automotive's bespoke division, McLaren Special Operations including matte Carbon Fiber Rear Airbrake Panel, matte Carbon Fiber Roof and Tonneau Cover, matte Carbon Fiber Vent Bezels, and matte Carbon Fiber Front Bumper Wings. The exterior is finished in the dazzling "Silica White" exterior paint that was introduced with the 675LT series. For more information, be sure to click the button below. View Price and Listing

By Edward Jones – June 16, 2017

McLaren Philadelphia Puts on Spectacular 720S Unveiling E...

Article and Photos by Tanner Mashburn (TMashPhotos): McLaren Philadelphia hosted guests to preview the all-new McLaren 720S on the rooftop of the Cira Green Park near downtown Philadelphia. Before viewing the new car, guests were treated to live music and a great selection of food and drinks. The cover came off and everyone in attendance fell in love with the car at first site. The rest of the evening guests toured the car and were able to sit inside and get a close look at all of the different features. The car was even started up and revved several times so everyone could hear how the 720S sounded. Overall McLaren Philadelphia put on a fantastic event and I am sure it will result in several orders of the new 720S.

By Edward Jones – November 16, 2016

McLaren Newport Beach Autumn Sprint 2016

Clients of McLaren Newport Beach took part in an exciting weekend of spirited driving and dining during the dealership’s Autumn Sprint event this past weekend. The two-day excursion began in Newport Beach with a pack of McLaren vehicles making their way towards San Diego for the first stop at Westroot Tavern for lunch. All of the cars were prominently displayed causing many curious passersby to stop and marvel at the fleet of supercars.(Related - Couple Drifts New Modified Huracan Around Lamborghini Newport Beach)Once back on the open road, the trek moved into the mountains where attendees were able to enjoy the technical route that was mapped out for the afternoon section of the drive. The group made a second stop along a scenic overlook to take in the incredible view and advantage of an impressive photo opportunity. With the sun setting, it was back to the McLarens to finish the first day of driving. As dusk approached, McLaren Newport Beach guests arrived at La Casa Del Zorro resort in Borrego Springs for a night of dinner and relaxation. The group was all smiles as they enjoyed dinner and libations while sharing stories of the day’s events.Used McLaren SupercarsDay two of the McLaren Autumn Sprint began with a tasty breakfast at the resort followed by departure for the second half of the driving event. Fueled and ready to roll, the cars headed out once again to the mountains taking full advantage of the twisting roads that snake through the area. The route was perfect for the event as guests were able to truly appreciate the handling abilities of their cars along with other fellow enthusiasts. The drive soon passed through Laguna Beach where heads surely turned as the line of luxury sports cars motored through. Bayside Restaurant was the last stop on the journey for McLaren Newport Beach clients where yet another delicious meal was served for the group and even more stories were shared. As all good things come to an end, everyone involved with the McLaren Autumn Sprint parted ways taking with them the memories of the drive and being able to experience the event with a great group of individuals.(Also Read - McLaren Design Night at McLaren Newport Beach)McLaren Newport Beach opened in 2012 is the only McLaren factory authorized dealership for Orange County and San Diego County. Conveniently located, McLaren Newport Beach provides Super Sports Cars to Southern California's affluent coastal communities. Its mission has always been to offer the best inventory selection in the nation and to continually support and build the McLaren community. The sales and service team combines over 75 years of experience with McLaren. As a result, they are passionate about the cars they sell, the customers they serve and consistently deliver optimal results. For more information about McLaren Newport Beach including online inventory, upcoming events and news, please visit www.McLarenNB.com.View Dealer Inventory

By Edward Jones – July 29, 2016

Carbon Fiber-Loaded 2016 McLaren 675LT Spider for Sale

McLaren Newport Beach is pleased to present for sale this extremely limited McLaren 675LT Spider For Sale that is loaded with Carbon Fiber options inside and out. The 675LT Spider is a limited production McLaren that pays homage to the LT's of the McLaren F1 era in the 1990's and is limited to just 500 units worldwide.When we say it's loaded, we mean it. To make a point as to how much carbon fiber really is in this car, here's the options list: Matte Carbon Fiber Front Bumper, Matte Carbon Fiber Front Bumper End Plates, MSO Matte Vented Carbon Fiber Front Fenders, Matte Carbon Fiber Mirrors, Matte Carbon Fiber Side Blades, Matte Carbon Fiber Side Scoops, Matte Carbon Fiber Lower Side Intake, Matte Carbon Fiber Rear Bumper, Matte MSO multi-piece Carbon Fiber Roof, Matte Carbon Fiber Engine Covers, MSO Titanium Coolant Caps, Polycarbonate Engine Hatch, MSO Matte Carbon Fiber Extended Interior Trim Package including Door Panels and Rear Deck behind seats, Carbon Fiber McLaren badging inside and out, McLaren-branded Matte Carbon Fiber Door Sills, Matte Carbon Fiber Interior Trim Package, Matte Carbon Fiber Bucket Seats finished in Red Leather and Carbon Black Alcantara, MSO Red Seatbelts, Carbon Black Alcantara Interior, Carbon Black Alcantara Instrument Cluster Top, plus much more.McLaren Newport Beach invites you to visit their showroom or to give them a call if you have any questions regarding this 2016 McLaren 675LT Spider, call 888-905-5474 or click the button below.View Listing

By Edward Jones – July 21, 2016

Armada of McLarens Take Over Orange County

McLaren Newport Beach recently treated clients to a spectacular weekend luncheon and drive through the scenic roadways of Orange County. An armada of 22 McLarens left the dealership located on West Coast Highway for an afternoon of spirited driving and brand comradery. Among the many models featured on the excursion were the McLaren 12C, McLaren 570S, McLaren 650S and both the 675LT Coupe and 675 Spider, the newest additions to the McLaren lineup.The group took the long route to their final destination, driving through the Hills of Tustin and Santiago Canyon before heading back through Laguna Beach towards Bayside Restaurant. Upon arrival, guests were treated to a privately catered lunch where they regaled accounts of the day’s drive and shared their favorite McLaren Stories.View Dealer Inventory

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