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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 – October 29, 2020

Discover the Cover - November 2020: The New Maserati MC2...

Maserati is ushering in a new era for the Trident Brand with the Maserati MC20. This supercar is setting the tone as their first model celebrating an exciting era of returning to racing. As a successor to the MC12, the MC20 has big shoes to fill but its design, specs, and technology point to a perfect fit. Powering the new MC20 supercar is Maserati’s Nettuno engine, a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine. This powerplant produces 630 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque. With a weight of 3,307 lbs, its power-to-weight ratio is best-in-class. Maserati notes that the MC20’s combination of a weight power will allow it to sprint from 0 to 60 in under 2.9 seconds. It will also have a top speed of over 201 mph. For the MC20’s design, Maserati took inspiration from their history. In the front of the supercar, shadows of the MC12's design are included in the grille and placement of the hood’s air vents. Unlike the MC12, however, the MC20 does feature butterfly doors that Maserati says provide function and ergonomics. As for the overall aerodynamics of the MC20, Maserati tuned it to perfection. To be more specific, they put it through over 2,000 hours in the Dallara Wind Tunnel. This allowed Maserati’s designers to create a sleek vehicle with a drag coefficient under 0.38. And if you’re looking for a rear spoiler, that’s a bit hidden as it’s an active and discreet rear wing. Inside the Maserati MC20 is a driver-centric cabin. All necessary functions of the MC20 are within an arm or fingers reach which heightens the connection between the driver and the car. Highlights of the interior include the two 10-inch screens (one acting as the instrument screen and the other for multimedia), carbon fiber center console, wireless smartphone charger, and a convenient storage compartment underneath the armrest. Maserati says that the new MC20 will be connected at all times, allowing the driver to take advantage of connected navigation, Alexa, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The driver can control these connected features through the Maserati Connect app. As part of the launch of the new Maserati MC20, the Italian automaker is also noting the six new colors that they have developed for the supercar. This includes Bianco Audace, Giallo Genio, Rosso Vincente, Blu Infinito, Nero Enigma, and Grigio Mistero. One important point that Maserati has discussed while revealing the MC20 is that this is not the only variant that we will be seeing. The MC20’s design will not only be created as a coupe, but a convertible as well. And, yes, in the future we will more than likely be seeing a fully electric MC20 supercar. Production of the new Maserati MC20 supercar will begin at the end of 2020 with pre-orders available right now. Buy This Issue Now About The Experience Auto Group The Experience Auto Group is the corporate home to seven dealerships along the Eastern Seaboard, focused on the management of dealership operations, sales, service, repair and restoration of Ferrari, Maserati and Alfa Romeo automobiles. Established in 1983, The Experience Auto Group is known worldwide as a top purveyor of exotic, high-performance and luxury cars, legends of the race track, and restorer of fine vintage automobiles. Long Island View Inventory Gold Coast Inventory Fort Lauderdale Inventory About Boardwalk Maserati Strategically positioned in one of the largest Maserati markets in the U.S., Boardwalk Maserati Plano is committed to broadening the legacy of this storied marquee throughout Dallas-Fort Worth. Maserati is one of the most enduring automobile nameplates in the world, earning a distinctive place in the annals of performance. View Inventory About Maserati of Newport Beach Established since 2002 and formerly known as Maserati of Orange County, we are one of the oldest factory authorized Maserati dealerships in the United States and the Los Angeles area's longest serving Maserati dealership. Unlike many other dealerships, our Maserati-only showroom located in the heart of Newport Beach on PCH is the proof our of dedication to the Maserati brand. View Inventory

By Edward Jones – September 08, 2020

Discover the Cover - October 2020: Revival 250 SWB by GTO...

Gracing the cover of the October 2020 edition of duPont REGISTRY is a stunning Revival 250 SWB by GTO Engineering that's currently for sale at Manhattan Motorcars. The beauty of a classic Ferrari is admired by car collectors around the world for so many reasons. The prestige, iconic styling, and intuitive engineering are as recognized today as they were when they first came into existence. Those wanting to experience a classic Ferrari may get discouraged by the incredibly high resale prices of some models, that's where GTO Engineering comes in. The revival 250 SWB by GTO Engineering for sale at Manhattan Motorcars is a faithful re-creation of the iconic 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione. Each of their vehicles are built by the same highly-skilled and experienced engineers that have dedicated themselves to restoring or servicing classic Ferraris. Initially, GTO Engineering completed a full scan of the 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione and created a perfect model in CAD. This was done to ensure that their revival 250 SWB would be authentic, precise, and true to the original model. The team at GTO Engineering does not focus solely on the exterior. Inside, the cabin of the revival 250 SWB surrounds the driver in all of its original glory. The wood-rimmed steering wheel, manual gearbox, sports seats, curved door windows, and more combine to create an interior that's new while being a perfect re-creation of what the owner of a new Ferrari in the 1960s would have experienced. Underneath the hood of the revival 250 SWB is a front-longitudinal, naturally aspirated 3.5-liter (Tipo 128F) Colombo 60⁰ V12 engine. Everything in this engine, except for the Weber 40DCL carburetor, has been drawn, machined and manufactured in-house. This ensures that the engine is ready for a lifetime of driving. When GTO Engineering set out to create the revival 250 SWB, they wanted to ensure that it could be used as a daily driver and even a track car. They more than succeeded. In fact, many owners drive their revival 250 SWB more than any other classic car in their collection. Those wanting to enjoy a classic drive without the hassle of old or worn-out components need to look no further. The revival 250 SWB by GTO Engineering provides the driver with a timeless experience that's ensured by modern components and exquisite craftsmanship. Interested buyers, drivers and collectors should contact Manhattan Motorcars for more information. View Price and Listing

By Edward Jones – August 10, 2020

Discover the Cover - September 2020: Drako GTE

Drako Motors has focused on a singular mission since it was founded in Silicon Valley by American entrepreneurs, Dean Drako and Shiv Sikand: Create stunning, driver focused supercars that deliver exhilarating performance with maximum control and safety—on road and track. After almost a decade of unrelenting design, engineering and track development behind closed doors, Drako Motors launched its first limited production electric supercar—Drako GTE. Read the Full Issue Drako GTE is a four passenger ultra luxury supercar with a 1,200 hp quad motor architecture, a 206 mph top speed, and cornering precision unlike any other supercar on the road today. The incredible handling and performance is made possible by the company’s proprietary software system, Drako DriveOS, which has been extensively tested and record lapped on the Nürburgring. The system replaces conventional mechanical axle differentials with software and computer-managed four-wheel torque vectoring. Individual motors at each wheel can be instantly and independently controlled for maximum traction, stability, and handling responsiveness To take advantage of hyper-handling torque vectoring performance, Drako GTE has a console mounted Quattro Manettino, with four switches to dial-in every aspect of the driving experience. Full control of torque vectoring and slip control, front to rear power distribution, and fine-grained regenerative braking control, allows drivers to adjust powertrain characteristics to match their driving style. As an ultra-premium grand touring supercar, Drako GTE luxuriously accommodates four passengers and their luggage while providing ample legroom and easy ingress and egress. The front and rear seats are designed with a blend of hand-stitched leather and Alcantara striking the perfect balance between extraordinary comfort and supportive bolstering for high-performance driving. To uniquely personalize Drako GTE, owners can configure their car by selecting from a wide range of colors, materials and finishes. Drako GTE is now in production and limited to just 25 units worldwide. Those interested in acquiring this bespoke electric hypercar are encouraged to reach out to reservations@drakomotors.com. Visit DrakoMotors.com for More Info

By Edward Jones – July 14, 2020

Discover the Cover - August 2020: Lexus LC Convertible

A convertible isn’t a conventional choice for a driver to select or for an automaker to make. So when Lexus chose to return to the convertible game, they did it the Lexus way. Not just in terms of the level of craftsmanship and design, but also the feelings the vehicle evokes from the driver. A convertible is inherently a rush of exhilaration. A Lexus convertible takes that up a level. To get there, Lexus started with the peak of their performance: the LC coupe. Lexus engineers refused to sacrifice that level of performance for an open top. They worked tirelessly to preserve the handling dynamics. To improve chassis rigidity, structural braces were added to the front, middle and rear. The suspension was tuned specifically to complement those refinements. And with a 571-horsepower*, naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the LC Convertible is primed to open up on the road. Then, by adding a convertible soft top, Lexus also opens its coupe up to an entirely new sensory experience. Over 1,000 combinations were studied to achieve a smooth, natural top movement. And when the top is down, you become immersed in a world that you once simply drove through. It’s the pinnacle of performance, with a breath of fresh air. While the top is open, the cabin maintains the comfort and thoughtful design you’d expect from a Lexus. No matter the temperature outside, Lexus Climate Concierge with Upper Body Heating automatically adjusts the heating and air conditioning to ensure an ideal cabin temperature. To take it a step further, vents behind the steering wheel directed at the hands and upper-body vents in the front seats add additional warmth in cooler weather. All to keep the driver comfortable, year-round. Visit Lexus.com for More Info One of the great thrills (and often frustrations) of a convertible is that people love feeling the wind in their face, but they don’t love hearing it in their ears. Enhanced Active Noise Control helps keep unwanted noise out, so the driver can focus on the roar of the engine note, precisely tuned for exhilaration. Why confine exhilaration to just the road below? Lexus engineers understood that a whole world existed above and crafted the LC Convertible to fully open up that experience. It’s that kind of thinking and those human touches that set the LC Convertible apart. With its refined, sculpted lines and a sleek soft top, the LC Convertible is more than just a beautiful machine. It’s a chance to experience amazing at its most amazing. Learn More on Lexus.com *Ratings achieved using the required premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. If premium fuel is not used, performance will decrease.

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