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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

A man with light brown hair and a light beard smiles while standing outdoors on a sunny day, wearing a white and green collared shirt. The blurred road hints at the excitement of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion with Grand Marshal Jenson Button.

By Charles Bradley – July 30, 2025

Jenson Button Named Grand Marshal For 2025 Rolex Monterey...

Formula 1 World Champion and endurance racing superstar Jenson Button has been named Grand Marshal of the 51st Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, set for August 13-16 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The renowned British driver, known for his versatility and style both on and off the track, will headline the annual gathering that ranks among the most prestigious vintage racing events in North America. For fans of high-performance heritage, luxury automotive culture, and motorsports history, Button’s appointment brings added star power to an event already rich in provenance. With over 400 meticulously prepared, period-correct race cars competing across 14 race groups – including the eagerly-anticipated debut of a dedicated IROC class – this year’s Rolex Reunion promises a rare blend of authenticity, speed, and celebrity. “I am incredibly honored to be named Grand Marshal of this legendary event,” said Button, who now lives in California. “This is the ultimate gathering of motorsports history and icons from the racing world, and I couldn’t be prouder to play a part.” As Grand Marshal, Button will take part in a variety of ceremonial and fan-facing activities, including the opening ceremonies, autograph sessions, and guest commentary during the Mario Andretti Trophy race – an F1-themed battle that’s part of the official Formula 1 75th Anniversary celebrations. Button will also suit up and compete behind the wheel in several groups. He’ll campaign his 1967 Alfa Romeo GT Jr., a 2011 Porsche 997 GT3 Cup car, and a 1996 IROC Pontiac Firebird in the Unser Family Cup IROC category – a crowd favorite expected to channel the golden era of cross-discipline motorsport rivalries. Best known for his 2009 Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship with Brawn GP, Button enjoyed a 17-year F1 career with 15 wins and nearly 1,000 points scored. Today, he races for Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA in the FIA World Endurance Championship, and recently celebrated a podium finish at Interlagos, Brazil. His motorsport repertoire spans nearly every major series, from the Rolex 24 at Daytona to the NASCAR Cup Series and the Race of Champions. This year’s Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion is built around the global celebration of Formula 1’s 75th anniversary. A highlight of the weekend will be daily demonstrations and races featuring 25 historic F1 cars from the 1966–1985 non-turbo era – machines that defined Grand Prix racing’s most visceral decades. The paddock display will be equally compelling, offering fans a close-up look at 30 rare and important Formula 1 cars. Among them: a 1956 Maserati 250F, the legendary 1966 Eagle Mk1, a turbocharged 1986 Benetton-BMW B186, and – most recently – a 2024 McLaren-Mercedes MCL38, the Constructors’ Championship winner driven by Lando Norris. By blending championship-caliber driving talent like Button with a historic grid of motorsport legends, the Rolex Reunion bridges past and present with exquisite authenticity. As an experiential lifestyle event, it attracts collectors, connoisseurs, and vintage racing fans alike – united by a shared passion for high-performance machines and timeless design. Whether you come for the cars, the competition, or the culture, this year’s Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion promises to be one of the most dynamic yet. View All Exotic Cars For Sale Image Source: Friends of Laguna Seca

A driver in a blue vintage Formula 1 car with "elf" and "Goodyear" logos prepares to race at the Goodwood Festival, surrounded by a crowd, showcasing one of the era-defining cars of motorsport history.

By Khris Bharath – June 23, 2025

7 Formula 1 Champions to Drive Era-Defining Cars at Goodw...

It’s not every day that you get to witness, not one, not two, but seven of Formula 1 World Champions under one roof, unless, of course, that roof is of the iconic Goodwood House in England. This year, between July 10-13, as the Festival of Speed (FOS) marks 75 years of F1, the weekend event that is set to draw a crowd of nearly 200,000 strong, is pulling off a once-in-a-generation gathering with a lineup of some of the sport’s most celebrated personalities, each with their own trackborne battle scars, trophies, and stories to share. They include: Sir Jackie Stewart: The humble Scotsman dominated Formula 1 in the late '60s and early '70s, securing championships in 1969, 1971, and 1973. Known as much for his relentless push for driver safety as for his pace, Stewart will be reunited with both the Tyrrell 003 and 006. Emerson Fittipaldi: A trailblazer for Brazilian motorsport, Fittipaldi became the youngest F1 champion at the time when he won in 1972, before claiming a second title in 1974. He will take to the hill in the McLaren M23. Mario Andretti: One of the most versatile drivers in racing history, Andretti won the 1978 Formula 1 title in the revolutionary ground-effect Lotus 79. The American racing legend will once again be seen in that very car. Alain Prost: Popularly known as the ‘Professor,’ he went up against the likes of the great Ayrton Senna. The Frenchman triumphed in the 1985, 1986, 1989, and 1993 seasons. He will drive the McLaren MP4/2 B. Nigel Mansell: Yet another F1 legend who took on Senna, the British driver for his gritty driving style and unmistakable mustache, Mansell stormed to the 1992 title in the technologically advanced Williams FW14 B. That’s the same car he’ll pilot up the hill at Goodwood. Jacques Villeneuve: Son of the legendary Gilles Villeneuve, Jacques carved out his own path by winning the 1997 championship in only his second F1 season. He returns to Goodwood as one of Canada’s most successful racing drivers to date. Mika Häkkinen: The Flying Finn is best known for his fierce battles with seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher in the late '90s. Häkkinen took back-to-back championships in 1998 and 1999. He’ll drive the sleek and dominant silver McLaren MP4/13. With a collective 14 titles to boast between these drivers, the balcony moment on Saturday, July 12, will be a historic one, with interviews to be hosted by none other than F1 driver and presenter, Karun Chanhok. On Sunday, the spotlight will be on Prost, as Goodwood will commemorate 40 years since his first 1985 title, as he arrives in the famed red and white livery McLaren MP4/4. That same day, the “Ultimate Grid” hillclimb will see all manner of Formula 1 cars, old and new, taking part, celebrating the full 75-year history of grand prix racing. It is also worth noting that the event won’t be confined to drivers alone, as some of F1’s brightest minds: Adrian Newey, Professor Gordon Murray, and Ross Brawn, who helped shape the modern era of the pinnacle of Motorsport, will also be on site. While tickets for the event are almost gone, if you’re an F1 fan, this summer event is going to be pretty action-packed and one that you won’t want to miss, even if it is on the live stream. Image Source: Goodwood

A classic red Ferrari sports car is parked on grass in front of a stone wall with TAG Heuer Drivers Club signage and a large racing driver poster at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where TAG Heuer is the Official Timing Partner.

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 10, 2025

TAG Heuer Returns to The Goodwood Festival of Speed as Th...

TAG Heuer heads to The Goodwood House with an exclusive new watch. For the past 32 years, automotive manufacturers, car collectors, and motorsport fanatics have flocked to The Goodwood House in West Sussex, England, for the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed. Held on the prestigious grounds of Charles Gordon-Lennox (11th Duke of Richmond), around 200,000 spectators gather for a three-day celebration that welcomes some of the world's most influential and historic automotive and motorsport examples. The main attraction of the fuel-driven weekend is the coveted hillclimb, where modern and historic cars compete in a timed sprint up the 1.16-mile road course that is typically used as a driveway for the residence. TAG Heuer is officially back at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, making its return as the event's Official Timing Partner just in time to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Formula 1. TAG's legacy is deeply rooted in motorsport history, from the first dashboard chronograph in 1911 to its partnerships with names like Red Bull Racing, Porsche, and the Indianapolis 500. Goodwood's 2025 theme, "The Winning Formula – Champions and Challengers," sets the perfect stage for the Swiss watchmaker to shine. To celebrate the occasion, TAG Heuer is releasing a limited-edition TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph x Festival of Speed models. It features a 42mm case, TH20-00 in-house movement, classic British Racing Green dial, red accents, and a comfortable brown leather rally strap. Designed as a nod to vintage motorsport style, only 100 pieces will be produced and first offered exclusively to Goodwood Road Racing Club members. From hillclimb competitions to new vehicle debuts and interactive paddocks, Goodwood remains one of the most exciting car events of the year. Shop All TAG Heuer Watches Source: TAG Heuer

F 150 Lightning SuperTruck at Pikes Peak

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 24, 2024

Ford's 1,600HP F-150 Lightning SuperTruck Shines at Pikes...

The Ford F-150 Lightning SuperTruck sets a record time at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Ford has once again proven its expertise in EV engineering with the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck's stellar performance at the 102nd running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Ford Performance's electric vehicle demonstrator overcame significant hurdles while clocking the fastest time among 61 competitors, finishing the climb in an impressive 8:53.553. The accomplishment came just days after setting a new qualifying record for the open class, beating the previous record by more than seven seconds. Ford The success at Pikes Peak is an example of the hard work and dedication of the Ford Performance Motorsports team. Mark Rushbrook, the global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, explained how lessons learned from last year's SuperVan 4.2 were crucial for this year's success. Team driver Romain Dumas faced a technical issue during the climb, which added about 26 seconds to his time, but quick thinking and a complete reset allowed the 1,600-horsepower F-150 Lightning SuperTruck to continue the climb up the 14,115-foot mountain. Ford The construction of the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck was a collaborative effort. STARD (Stohl Advanced Research and Development) played a key role, along with top-of-the-line Sparco racing harnesses and bespoke Pirelli P-Zero tires that provide stability and traction on treacherous mountain roads. Sriram Pakkam, Ford Performance Motorsports' high-performance EV manager, emphasized the collective effort that went into maximizing downforce and minimizing weight. The big win at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb marks a significant milestone for Ford, highlighting its top-tier position in both the EV industry and the world of motorsports. View all Ford F-150 Lightnings for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Ford F-150 Lightnings For Sale Ford Source: Ford

By Edward Jones – June 20, 2024

Inaugural Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama is Taking Pla...

For the 102nd running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, the inaugural Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama will take place. “The GT4 platform is one of the most popular and versatile forms of racing in the world today, and those who have brought GT4s to the mountain in the past have had success,” said PPIHC CEO Melissa Eickhoff. “This is a natural expansion to more manufacturers and that tricky element of Balance of Performance – which will prove to be interesting and new ground for GT4s. We’re looking forward to watching our inaugural division do battle this June.” The Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama replaces the popular Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama, which started in 2018. The Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport from the previous class is still eligible to compete, and the use of Yokohama ADVAN tires continues in the new division.“Yokohama is excited to expand its presence at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb as the title sponsor of a new class,” said Tricia Wall, Motorsports Senior Manager, Yokohama. “This class presents a unique opportunity for multiple vehicle manufacturers to compete against one another at one of the world’s most iconic racing venues.” All four drivers competing for the inaugural Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama have previous experience on the mountain. Chris Becker, Laura Hayes, Nuno Caetano, and Robb Holland are among the competitors bringing their expertise to this new and exciting class. PPIHC collaborated with SRO, the global leader in GT Class Racing, to license the GT4 division, ensuring fair competition for manufacturers and teams at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The SRO, which licenses the GT4 Class worldwide with series in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and North America, maintains a homologated platform for each licensed GT4, allowing for efficient balance of performance. This new division welcomes numerous global manufacturers and GT4-spec vehicles, featuring sub-classes for normally aspirated and turbocharged cars. In 2024, PPIHC will see Porsche and Ford in the normally aspirated class and Toyota in the turbo class. If you're like me and are a longtime fan of the PPIHC, you will thankfully be able to watch the entire race this Sunday, thanks to the livestream. Last year, I spent my Sunday watching the race unfold thanks to this fantastic livestream, but this year, I'll actually be attending. So be sure to also check out our social channels for some on-scene coverage. Pikes Peak Livestream Page

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 28, 2024

The 2024 Formula 1 Racing Season Set To Kick Off At The G...

Don't miss out on the start to one of the most competitive seasons yet. Formula 1 racing has significantly grown its audience, evolving into one of the most followed sporting events worldwide. The surge in popularity can be largely attributed to Netflix's "Drive To Survive" documentary series. The series has successfully introduced the high-speed world of F1 to new audiences, showcasing the technical expertise, intense rivalries, and strategic behind the scenes moments. As a result, areas previously less familiar with the sport are now engaging with Formula 1. As we gear up for the 2024 Season, Formula 1 is set to make its triumphant return this weekend at the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Get up to speed with everything you need to know about the 2024 Bahrain Grand Prix, which takes place over 57 laps of the 3.363-mile Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir on Saturday, March 2. If you're one of those diehard fans who can't get enough of the action, make sure to tune in starting Thursday to catch all the practice and qualifying sessions to see what the starting grid will look like on race day before the battle begins. Whether you're a Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 fan or a Ferrari Scuderia F1 supporter, the day has finally come when the flag drops and the motorsport action starts. Shop all the best F1 gear and support your favorite driver and team by clicking the link below. Shop All Formula 1 Fan Gear Source: Formula 1

By Canossa Events – May 23, 2022

Cavallino Classic Cup: The Racing Series Dedicated to Fer...

Cavallino has launched Cavallino Classic Cup, a new initiative to further expand its boundaries and continue its mission of fostering the passion and culture for Enzo Ferrari’s legacy. Cavallino Classic Cup is the new racing series dedicated to all Ferraristi with a racing soul, who want to dust their glorious Ferrari Challenge cars off and breathe the scent of petrol and tires. A great opportunity to give a new life to those racing glories and to have fun on the racetrack in a friendly and open environment. The racing series is open to five generations of Ferrari Challenge cars: from the first 348 Challenge to the fantastic 458 Challenge EVO. The first season will take place in Europe and will include three dates: June 7-8 at the Red Bull Ring October 1 at Varano Circuit October 22-23 at Misano World Circuit. Beside the races, in each date there will be hot laps sessions for those who don’t want to deal with safety equipment and racing license. Enjoy this fun-filled experience made of unrestrained emotions and live your racing vibes with us! Click here for more information. For registration, please apply here.

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