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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 Sponsored Article – April 07, 2026

Dimmitt Automotive Earns Rolls-Royce’s Highest Honor

Excellence at the highest level is never accidental—it is cultivated over time, refined through experience, and ultimately recognized on the world stage. For Dimmitt Automotive Group, another one of those defining moments has arrived. In a remarkable achievement, Dimmitt Automotive has been awarded the prestigious Americas “A Prophecy Fulfilled” Spectre Dealer of the Year Award by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars North America—an honor reserved for those who embody the very essence of the Rolls-Royce marque. This distinction recognizes not only exceptional performance but an unwavering commitment to delivering an ownership experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. For a company with roots dating back more than a century, this accolade is a natural extension of Dimmitt’s legacy. Founded in 1924, Dimmitt Automotive has built its reputation on trust, craftsmanship, and an uncompromising dedication to its clientele—values that align seamlessly with the ethos of Rolls-Royce itself. Yet what truly sets Dimmitt apart extends beyond the showroom. Deeply embedded in the fabric of the Tampa Bay community, the organization has long demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy, supporting local charities, cultural initiatives, and causes that enrich the lives of those they serve. The arrival of the all-electric Spectre marks a defining chapter in the Rolls-Royce story—one that blends heritage with forward-thinking innovation. To be recognized as the leading dealer in the Americas for this milestone model speaks volumes. For Dimmitt Automotive, this is more than an award. It is a reflection of a century-long pursuit of excellence—one that continues to set the standard for luxury automotive retail. For those inspired by the craftsmanship and quiet power of Rolls-Royce, the experience begins long before the driver’s seat. The team at Dimmitt Automotive Group invites you to connect with one of their dedicated brand ambassadors—trusted guides who understand that acquiring a Rolls-Royce is as personal as it is prestigious. Whether exploring the all-electric Spectre or commissioning a motor car tailored to your exact vision, your journey into the world of Rolls-Royce begins with a conversation. Learn More

By Tyler Rampersaud – January 13, 2025

Braman Automotive Is The Nation's Largest Bentley & Rolls...

Braman Automotive is a hub for the pinnacle of automotive ultra-luxury. Two of the most celebrated manufacturers in the ultra-luxury automotive industry are Bentley and Rolls-Royce, two longstanding British purveyors of elegant, stately vehicles with paths that crossed over the decades. Automotive enthusiasts see Bentley and Rolls-Royce vehicles as aspirational masterpieces crafted for pleasurable driving and cherished collections, with bespoke touches and painstaking engineering. Matching the luxurious experience of the cars from brands like Bentley and Rolls-Royce is the luxury experience of their dealerships, and in 2024, the largest Bentley and Rolls-Royce dealer in the United States was named Braman Automotive, a South Florida-based dealership that is simultaneously celebrating its 50th anniversary year. Driving the achievement of Braman Automotive’s status as the nation’s largest Bentley and Rolls-Royce dealer, according to Braman’s Chief Operating Officer, Alex Shack, is the “passion and precision” of the dealership personnel. Along with its reputation of excellent service, and a diverse lineup of vehicles, the new 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan and the redesigned 2025 Bentley Continental GT/GTC Speed sparked high demand among Braman Automotive customers. Achieving the title of being the largest Bentley and Rolls-Royce dealership in the United States, Braman Automotive’s milestone success not only highlights the success of the dealership, but the growth of South Florida as an automotive ultra-luxury hub. View All Vehicles For Sale From Braman Motorcars Palm Beach

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 01, 2023

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Raleigh Hosts A Private Unveiling ...

The all-electric Spectre made its grand debut at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Raleigh. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Raleigh celebrated a milestone in automotive luxury with the grand unveiling of the all-electric Spectre at the Pavilion at the Angus Barn on November 15th. The event, exclusive to VVIP clients, was a showcase of elegance and innovation, aligning perfectly with the Rolls-Royce brand's renowned connection with high-end craftsmanship and refinement. The curated ambiance at the Pavilion set the perfect stage for the electrified Spectre's debut. The evening embodied sophistication, from the tasteful decor to the ambient lighting, all reflecting Rolls-Royce's dedication to creating luxurious experiences. As the curtains parted, the Spectre emerged, showcasing Rolls-Royce's dedication to pioneering in the electric vehicle (EV) space. Its design seamlessly blended the brand's iconic heritage with cutting-edge technology setting a new standard in electric luxury vehicles. Guests were offered an exclusive, up-close experience with the Spectre's lavish interior, highlighting the brand's craftsmanship. More than just a car unveiling, the event facilitated a unique interaction between the brand and its distinguished clientele. Through detailed presentations and discussions, Rolls-Royce representatives provided deep insights into the Spectre's features and craftsmanship, enhancing clients' appreciation and connection with the brand. The unveiling of the Rolls-Royce Spectre was a celebration of the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with futuristic innovation. This event marked a pivotal moment for Rolls-Royce, as it solidified its position at the forefront of electric vehicle technology while continuing to honor its legacy in creating the epitome of automotive luxury. View all of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Raleigh's inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Rolls-Royce Motor Cars inventory Source: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Raleigh

Post Oak Motor Cars Lonny Soza and Tilman Fertitta CEO of Fertitta Entertainment and Owner of Post Oak Motor Cars v2

By Edward Jones – May 11, 2021

Rolls-Royce Houston Awarded Rolls-Royce Motor Cars North ...

Congratulations are in order. Rolls-Royce recently presented Rolls-Royce Houston, a Post Oak dealer, with a truly prestigious award: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars North American Dealer of the Year. This is a truly outstanding award to be given considering the challenges that 2020 presented. Even facing such tribulations, Rolls-Royce Houston stayed the course and provided clients with an unmatched experience. Criteria for the award include measures from the initial thought of buying a Rolls-Royce through the entire commissioning and ownership experience. Other aspects taken into consideration are the performance of sales, marketing, finance, and service. “The past year was challenging for luxury auto dealerships across the globe and our Post Oak Motors team worked tirelessly to overcome those obstacles and uphold our high standards for customer service and experience,” said Tilman Fertitta, CEO of Fertitta Entertainment and Owner of Post Oak Motor Cars. “I am immensely proud of my staff and their dedication to always delivering excellence – no matter the circumstances.” “With over 40 luxury auto dealerships across the country, we are immensely proud of our team for earning this coveted and prestigious recognition,” said Lonny Soza, General Manager of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Houston. “Rolls Royce sets the standard in high-end, first-class motor vehicles, and to receive this designation from one of the world’s most pinnacle brands is a testament of our staff’s collective dedication and passion for delivering an unparalleled, luxury car buying experience unlike any other in the world.” We want to congratulate Rolls-Royce Houston on a fantastic award. If you'd like to view Post Oak Motor Cars' current inventory and see just how fantastic their customer service is, click the button below. View Inventory Source: Post Oak Motor Cars

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 – April 14, 2020

Bala Blue & Passion Pink Rolls-Royce Cullinans at O'Gara ...

Rolls-Royce Beverly Hills, part of the O'Gara Coach family, has two very special ultra-luxury SUVs up for sale. Both of these vehicles are Rolls-Royce Cullinans, but they come in two very different colors. One is finished in Bala Blue while the other is in Passion Pink. Both examples are striking in their own right and were featured in an Instagram Live video by O'Gara Coach. Check them out in the video up above and be sure to follow O'Gara Coach on Instagram for more incredible live videos. Passion Pink Cullinan This Cullinan comes in a fantastic Passion Pink finish with a Seashell interior. The color combination of the pink and light-tan interior is absolutely perfect. Just imagine how lovely it would look by the beach. It's a brand-new example that's looking for the right owner. View Listing Bala Blue Cullinan The other Cullinan that O'Gara Coach featured was the example in Bala Blue. Inside is a Navy Blue and Charles Blue interior with contrasting wood trim. If you're a fan of the color blue, then this is the perfect luxury SUV for you. Be sure to click the button below to learn more. View Listing

By Andrew Nabors – February 06, 2020

2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge Arrives in L.A.

To celebrate the newest addition to the Black Badge series, the esteemed English Automaker commissioned a unique photoshoot. Photographer Mark Riccioni wanted to juxtapose the new SUV against a backdrop of SoCal Car Culture. Captured on a perfect winter evening, he shot the new 2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge arriving in L.A. To give him the proper equipment, the House of Rolls-Royce included a bespoke set of tools. Known internally as "Urban Photography", a recreation module was built into the cargo area. Trimmed in Forge Yellow, it contains a DJI Mavic Mini drone, 12.9" iPad Pro, 16" MacBook Pro, and Sennheiser PXC550 MkII noise-canceling headphones. It will be on display throughout March at Rolls-Royce Beverly Hills, so click the button below to browse their latest pre-owned trade-ins for a great deal. Browse Pre-Owned Models at Rolls-Royce Beverly Hills " width="680"> Related: Rolls-Royce Cullinan Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Edward Jones – October 07, 2019

Braman Miami Delivers Bespoke Rolls-Royce Cullinan to Mic...

This year at The Quail, A Motorsports Gather, Michael Fux's new Rolls-Royce Cullinan was unveiled. If you're familiar with Fux and his cars, you know that it's common for him to order bespoke vehicles with bespoke colors. While the car was over in California, it's been brought to the East Coast as Braman Rolls-Royce Miami finally delivered the car to Fux. The car was presented on the showroom floor as guests looked on with amazement as the sheet was pulled back on the luxury SUV. Fux's inspiration for this color came from a women's scarf he found while shopping in South Florida. He then sent this scarf to Rolls-Royce who created a paint that matched the color of the scarf perfectly. If you want to learn more about Michael Fux's Rolls-Royce Cullinan, click here. view braman miami's inventory https://www.instagram.com/p/B3VBIX2gOAW

By Andrew Nabors – August 11, 2019

Vantage Motorworks: 45 Years of Success & Still Going

Loyalty in the automotive business is worth its weight in gold. When our first issue was coming together in 1985, we asked dealers and private sellers to take a leap of faith and advertise with us. At that time Richard Gorman had a small garage in North Miami, Florida specializing in high-quality imported cars. He took a chance in our new magazine and the rest is history. Other dealers have come and gone but we are proud to say that Vantage Motorworks has never missed a month in our magazine. They evolved from a small shop to a world-class authority for Rolls-Royce and Bentley sales and restorations. As their technicians tackled more involved projects, Richard decided to go all-in. Instead of outsourcing interior or woodwork, he hired his own talented crew of trimmers, carpenters, body and paint craftsmen. Along with a crew of experienced mechanics all the work is performed in the same location under his watchful eye in his facility. Many Vantage employees have worked there for 25 years or more so they are not intimidated by a diamond in the rough. After restoration, many of their projects often result in Concours trophies for their clients. Work In Progress These proprietary methods are why Vantage Motorworks pays good money for English classics. Many seasoned employees have worked there over 25 years, so they are not scared of a diamond in the rough. After the restoration, it will emerge to outshine the Crown Jewels. Located 30 minutes from Miami or Ft. Lauderdale airports, the Vantage inventory is worth a South Florida vacation. Examples of their restorations can often be seen at the finest automotive events worldwide. Judges and enthusiasts often say “You can always tell a Vantage car!” "Winning" If your collection needs a centerpiece – click the link below or give us a call. You won’t be disappointed. 305-940-1161 Click Here To Visit Vantage Motorworks " width="680">

By Edward Jones – July 18, 2019

New Video Showcases Rolls-Royce Miami's “Miami Collection...

Rolls-Royce Miami has created a very special collection of cars that honor the town they reside in. The “Miami Collection, Six of Six” includes Dawn, Ghost and Wraith. Within the collection are two different vibes: Miami by Day and Miami by Night. Both parts of the collection have one of each model in them, but each carries completely different vibes. Rolls-Royce Miami has released a new video showing off the collection in their natural habit: Miami. The ultra-luxury cars can be seen cruising through the streets of the famous Floridian city, putting on a dazzling show. Check it out for yourself down below and be sure to click the button to see everything Rolls-Royce Miami has to offer. browse rolls-royce miami's cars for sale " width="680">

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