dR LIVE

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 Khris Bharath – April 07, 2026

1-of-26 Factory Gated-Manual Lamborghini Murcielago LP640-4 Listed on duPont REGISTRY Live

In the 200+ luxury and exotic cars that have crossed the digital block since launch on duPont REGISTRY Live, the variety of models being consigned has certainly evolved, ranging from seven-figure hypercars to humble restomods and beyond. But more recently, the platform has begun consigning some exceptionally rare and historically significant automobiles, typically reserved for some of the industry’s leading auction houses. The car we’re featuring today is no exception. This is a 2007 Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Coupe. Now this is not the first Murciélago on LIVE, as we’ve previously sold three on the platform, including a low-mileage example that fetched $670,950. Even a Roadster variant is currently live, but here’s the thing: not all Murciélagos were created equal. Finished in Giallo Orion, this car is a factory gated manual, and that single detail is noteworthy as most cars were configured with the E-gear automatic. For some context, out of an estimated 179 manual LP640-4 Murciélagos built worldwide, only 26 were delivered to the United States, placing this example in an extremely exclusive group that continues to gain attention as the collector market shifts toward analog supercars. Back in ‘06, Lamborghini revealed the LP640 at the Geneva Motor Show, with a host of updates. The engine grew from 6.2 to 6.5 liters, and output climbed to 640 horsepower, up from 580. 60 mph is done away with in 3.3 seconds, and top speed is an impressive 211 mph, numbers that still hold up today. Penned by Luc Donkerwolke, the design changes over the OG Murci are measured but effective with edgier styling comprising revised bumpers, larger air intakes, updated lighting, and a single center-mounted exhaust. <- Gallery -> This particular example currently has 41,557 miles on the clock and carries a documented history/screen time, having been previously owned by Daily Driven Exotics (DDE) on YouTube. Following a reported 2022 incident per a CarFax report, it underwent a comprehensive full professional repair and restoration by Royalty Exotic Cars in Las Vegas, resulting in a car that presents here close to factory condition. It still retains select updates such as an upgraded aftermarket exhaust system and a 6.5-inch Kenwood touchscreen. The exterior remains true to its original intent with Giallo Orion paint protected by full paint protection film, the optional 18-inch gloss black Hemera-style forged wheels, yellow brake calipers, the iconic dihedral i.e., scissor doors, and an active rear wing. Inside, the cabin stays driver-focused with black leather and yellow stitching, carbon fiber trim across key surfaces, and an analog instrument cluster that keeps everything straightforward and mechanical. At some point, the car was converted to rear wheel drive, but has since been returned to its original All Wheel Drive configuration, and we physically verified this by putting the car up on a lift and confirming the drivetrain setup. Other highlights include carbon ceramic brakes, front axle lift, limited-slip differentials, and electronically controlled damping. There has been active discussion around this car within the enthusiast community, particularly regarding its prior ownership, mileage history, and the circumstances surrounding the 2022 incident. As with any high-profile Murciélago with documented exposure and online history, opinions vary, and prospective bidders are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence. Also, the removal of catalytic converters affects emissions compliance in certain states. However, step back and look at what this Italian exotic represents. Despite these minor shortcomings and the higher mileage, this gated manual Murciélago still holds its ground, because while aftermarket conversions exist, factory manuals sit in a category of their own and continue to remain highly desirable for their rarity. Collector-grade cars like this one seldom show up on the secondary market, and having the opportunity to acquire one will give you the privilege of being part of a highly exclusive club. View Listing

By Khris Bharath – March 13, 2026

$1.31 Million McLaren Elva Leads duPont REGISTRY Live Results This Week as an Eclectic Mix of Cars Near Closing

Following last week’s headline-grabbing sale of a monotone red 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4, duPont REGISTRY Live recorded yet another seven-figure result this past Wednesday. The week’s top lot, a 2021 McLaren Elva finished in MSO Napier Green, closed at $1,314,600 (including Buyer's Premium) with just 653 miles on the odometer. The result lands almost exactly in line with the duPont REGISTRY Index (dRi) valuation of $1,297,500, reinforcing the continued strength of McLaren’s Ultimate Series in the collector market. While Speedsters have previously crossed the platform’s digital auction block, the Elva represents the first Barchetta body style to sell on duPont REGISTRY Live. Inspired by McLaren’s open-cockpit 1960s CanAm racers, the roofless Elva forms part of the British marque’s Ultimate Series lineup alongside the Senna and Speedtail. Production was strictly limited to 149 units worldwide, and this highly specified example carried nearly $88,000 in factory options. It is believed to be one of roughly 30 Elvas delivered to the United States, adding another layer of rarity to the final result. Several other noteworthy sales reinforced the platform’s diverse mix of modern supercars and enthusiast favorites. A 2023 Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato, the rally-inspired off-road supercar, closed at $294,000. Porsche continues to show strong demand on the platform, with a 2018 911 GT2 RS equipped with the highly desirable Weissach Package, bringing $515,550. Ferrari also delivered two standout results. A 2025 Ferrari Purosangue closed at $500,625, while a low-mileage 2007 Ferrari F430 equipped with the factory six-speed gated manual fetched $415,800, highlighting the continued demand for analog Ferraris with traditional open-gate transmissions. The week also marked another milestone for the platform with the first Lotus to sell on Live, a 25th Anniversary Lotus Esprit Turbo, which closed at $97,125. Lots Closing Next Week: Highlights <- Gallery -> Looking ahead, momentum on the platform continues to build. Nearly 15 cars are currently listed on duPont REGISTRY Live, with several notable consignments already drawing attention ahead of next week’s closing dates. Among the exotic highlights is a highly specified 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo, featuring a striking Blu Mondrian leather-and-Alcantara interior and just 726 miles on the odometer. Lamborghini Murciélagos have become increasingly sought after in recent times, with even more demand for factory manual examples, of which fewer than 50 of the V12 flagship were built. Having said that, a 2008 Murcielago LP640-4, finished in rare Herra Blue, currently listed on Live could also generate significant buzz, since it only carries 1,200 original miles. American performance machines also add variety to the current online catalog. A supercharged 2013 Chevrolet Caprice ex-law-enforcement sedan joins a rare 2013 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon finished in Glacier Blue, one of just 15 produced in that color. Rounding out the lineup is a selection from the tuner and restomod scene, including a 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Tribute, a highly modified 1969 Ford Bronco, a custom 1968 Chevrolet Suburban built by Relic, and a repainted Rubystone-finished 1990 Porsche 911 (964). With new consignments arriving and multiple high-profile lots closing in the coming days, duPont REGISTRY Live continues to expand its footprint in the digital collector-car auction space. View All Lots on duPont REGISTRY Live

By Khris Bharath – November 27, 2025

12 Hour Black Friday Sale: duPont REGISTRY Live to offer ...

Black Friday always brings around something unexpected, and this year, duPont REGISTRY Live will add to the excitement in its inaugural Black Friday sale. At exactly 6:00 AM EST tomorrow, a 12-hour window will open, closing at 6:00 PM EST, for a single surprise auction with a limited opportunity to acquire something with limited availability. What sits behind the countdown is a stealthy, highly optioned track-focused machine configured in a specification that has become very difficult to acquire. Availability, not numbers on a sheet, defines the real value here, and if you pay attention to modern high-performance cars, you already know how swiftly the most desirable configurations vanish from dealer lots and how rarely they return to market in untouched condition. This particular example follows that pattern. The car in question features a naturally aspirated engine located behind the seats that revs to 9,000 rpm and delivers just under 500 horsepower, exclusively to the rear wheels. Induction happens through visible ducts positioned directly behind the driver’s shoulders, creating a distinct sound profile inside the cabin. The dash to 60 mph happens in 3.2 seconds, and top speed is rated at just under 200 mph. Delivered new to a Canadian dealer, titled in the United States in August, and now showing only 78 miles, it is showroom fresh. While this mid-engined carbon-clad performance car is pretty well equipped from the factory, optional extras on this specific vehicle add up to about 40,000 Canadian dollars, approximately $28,500, elevating the specification far beyond the standard configuration. High demand continues to tighten allocations for this model, and low-mileage examples in the condition like the one we’re offering seldom surface. For 12 hours only, duPont REGISTRY Live is making one accessible, and if you want more than a spec sheet, this is your chance to secure one, so be ready at 6:00 AM Eastern tomorrow. View All Cars on dR Live Images: duPont REGISTRY

dR LIVE

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe