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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

Luftgekühlt Is Coming To Tokyo In Two Days

By Tyler Rampersaud – March 12, 2026

Luftgekühlt Lands In Tokyo March 14

For automotive enthusiasts, Japan is a unique but incredibly prominent capital for car culture, automotive excellence, and cutting-edge engineering and manufacturing. Japanese cars have carved their own niches in the motorsport world and car culture with their unique approaches to performance, striking design, and pop culture dominance. Now, Japan will be hosting a Luftgekühlt event for the first time this weekend, bringing the legendary air-cooled Porsche festival founded by Patrick Long to Tokyo on March 14. Held in Tokyo’s iconic Ginza district, the Japanese debut of Luftgekühlt will take place on the city’s historic Expressway KK Line, along a closed stretch of highway that was never previously accessible by the public. Right in the heart of Tokyo, iconic retro Porsche sports cars will be set against a stunning skyline backdrop in what might end up becoming the most picturesque Luftgekühlt yet. A lineup of cars that showcase the intersection of Porsche’s rich history and Japanese car culture will be present, and artistry will be at the center of the event with a live painting exhibition from artist Yoichiro Uchida. Cars at the event will include the 1964 Porsche 904, one that Sokichi Shikiba raced to victory in the second Japan Grand Prix GT-II, the 1967 Porsche 910 from the 1968 Japan Grand Prix, a 1984 Porsche 956 that won the 1985 Fuki 1000km, and a 1958 Porsche 356A 1600S Cabriolet, originally owned by actor Ken Takakura. <- Gallery -> The merchandise collection for the event includes a 100-page softcover book, art, apparel, and more. Meanwhile, partners of the inaugural Japanese Luftgekühlt event are Dunlop, Singer, Type 7, Porsche Japan, Gunther Werks, San-Ei Corporation, Loopwheeler, Takada Production, Polyphony Digital, Tone, Leen Customs, and Magarigawa. Nearby, supporting events will include a RUF Tribute unveiling at the Gran Turismo-produced popup, and a Road to Magarigawa rally presented by Type 7 with RoundCat Touring Club. Tickets for the highly anticipated Japan debut of Luftgekühlt are available now, and it’s going to feature the iconic event in the heart of a unique and iconic car culture landscape that is different from past Luft events. View All Porsche For Sale Image Source: Luftgekühlt

Several Porsche Carrera GT sports cars, part of a 2026 Porsche Plática event, are parked in a circular pattern on a stone courtyard, surrounded by trees and people in the background.

By Khris Bharath – August 02, 2025

After 18 Carrera GT Showcase 'Porsche Plática' Ups The St...

Porsche Plática, a Porsche-exclusive community gathering organized by Harper Porsche in Knoxville, Tennessee, has locked in the date for its event next year. While this year’s event drew 18 Porsche Carrera GTs, come Sunday, May 3, 2026, and the spotlight will be on the Porsche 911 R. Fresh off the heels of a wildly successful 2025 inaugural edition back in May, which drew over 3,500 enthusiasts and featured around 60 rare Porsche models, the focus will now be on both the original 1967 911 R and its 2016 spiritual successor. “Platica is a great example of the thriving passion for Porsche that is alive and well in the automotive community” - John Cappella, Executive Vice-President and COO of Porsche Cars North America The 911 R holds a special place in the Porsche world. Originally built as a lightweight motorsport homologation special, only 20 units of the 1967 model were built. Nearly five decades later, the badge was once again revived in 2016 with the same basic focus and ethos, and only 991 examples were made, making it rarer than the Carrera GT’s 1,270 production run. Powered by the 4.0-liter flat-six from the 991.1 GT3 RS and fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox, the modern 911 R ditched the rear wing in favor of a more subtle design with the signature stripes and visceral performance that puts the driver front and center. It sold out instantly, becoming a modern cult classic, and well-preserved examples demand top dollar today. “This year, we were proud to assemble 18 Carrera GT models, possibly the largest gathering of this supercar in the world. We hope to repeat this feat next year with the 911 R, and are looking forward to spending an exciting and memorable day with our partners and Porsche enthusiasts,” - Shannon Harper, President and Dealer Principal of Harper Porsche The Carrera GT lineup in 2025 was a tribute to what many consider the last of the analog supercar greats, owing to its high-revving V10 howl, manual transmission, and zero electronic driver aids. It’s also 25 years since the Carrera GT concept first broke cover at the Paris Auto Show in 2000, and to mark the milestone, Porsche and designer Arthur Kar are preparing to release a capsule collection that nods to the supercar’s enduring legacy. Plática joins the ranks of popular Porsche events in the United States, such as Luftgekühlt and Air|Water, which are primarily West Coast-centric. However, Luftgekühlt will soon be heading east to North Carolina, and along with Plática in Tennessee, it will be yet another major Porsche gathering in the east. Now we still don’t know exactly how many 911Rs will show up at Plática, but if this year’s turnout of incredible CGTs is any indication, expect an eclectic mix of Porsches in May next year. Watch this space. View All Porsche 911Rs For Sale Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 01, 2024

The First RUF Class at Amelia Island Concours Celebrates ...

This Sunday, the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance is about to get a major dose of performance, courtesy of RUF Automobile. For the first time, RUF is leading the pack with their very own class. Imagine this, fourteen of RUF’s most jaw-dropping models out on the green, including the crowd favorites RCT and Rt12, ready to turn heads and spark conversations. The selection on display is a rolling timeline of RUF’s 85 years of automotive excellence. From the legendary CTR Yellowbird, a symbol of peak performance, to the contemporary masterpiece that is the CTR Anniversary, the showcase is the ultimate celebration of RUF’s evolution from classic Porsche modifiers to creators of bespoke supercars. Alois Ruf Jr., the brains behind RUF’s enduring legacy, couldn’t be more excited to share these moments with fellow car collectors and enthusiasts. It’s obvious that for Ruf, these cars are embodiments of passion and the pursuit of automotive perfection. In a thrilling twist, some iconic RUF models will also find new homes this weekend, as they go under the hammer at prestigious auctions. Highlights include a 1990 RUF BTR III and a 1986 BTR Slantnose, promising to be the centerpiece of any collection. Among the must-sees are the pioneering RUF BTR, which established RUF as an official manufacturer, and the CTR “Yellowbird,” celebrated for its dominance on the track and in pop culture. Also making appearances at the event are the Turbo R Cabriolet and the CTR3. RUF’s debut class at Amelia Island is a landmark moment celebrating the brand’s legacy, craftsmanship, and the thrill of driving. It’s a perfect blend of business and pleasure for those who appreciate the finer things in life. So, whether you’re a potential buyer, a car enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the art of automotive design, Amelia Island is where you’ll want to be this weekend. Discover all that RUF North America has to offer by clicking the link below for more information. Discover RUF North America Source: RUF Automobile

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 28, 2023

Porsche Esports Challenge USA Sets Stage For Finale At La...

Sixteen gamers qualify for finals of the 2023 Porsche Esports Challenge USA.

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 24, 2023

$3.6M Porsche 911 'Sally Special' Set To Appear At Rennsp...

Sally Carrera and Lightning McQueen from Disney-Pixar's Cars reunite at Rennsport Reunion 7, with the $3.6M 'Sally Special' on display.

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 17, 2023

Rennsport Reunion 7: Record-Breaking Gathering of Porsche...

The 7th Rennsport Reunion is set to be the most attended Porsche fan event, with rare cars, races, and the global premiere of a new concept.

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 10, 2023

18-Year-Old Hayden Bradley Triumphs At Pikes Peak In A Po...

Young racer Hayden Bradley's remarkable victory at the 101st Pikes Peak Hill Climb showcases his skill and dedication.

By Tyler Rampersaud – July 17, 2023

Porsche's Rennsport Reunion 7 Is Coming Soon To Laguna Seca

Diving into Porsche’s Rennsport Reunion history, gear up for the 7th iteration of this much-anticipated auto heritage event.

By Tyler Rampersaud – June 15, 2022

Porsche's Back To Tape Hip-Hop Culture Series Visits Hamb...

Hamburg-based music journalist Niko Backspin and Porsche take the Back to Tape project to Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie concert hall. Back to Tape is a collaborative series between Porsche and German music journalist Niko Backspin, where Niko travels in search of hip-hop culture, art, and creativity throughout Europe with a passion for rap, breakdancing, DJ-ing, and graffiti. His latest stop on his tour brings him back to his home city of Hamburg, where the Back to Tape series visits one of the world’s preeminent concert halls, Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie. MUST READ: Ken Block’s New 1400-HP Hoonipigasus Porsche Is Up And Running With Weeks Before Pikes Peak With experience spanning over 25 years in the hip-hop world, Backspin and Porsche invited figures from the Back to Tape series to the Elbphilharmonie to tell their stories, like Lars Pedersen from Copenhagen, German rap icons Curse and Moses Pelham, and German street dancer Vartan Bassil. Hip-hop culture’s prevalence within the culture of Hamburg added to the poignance of the evening event being held at the Elbphilharmonie. While hip-hop events usually occupy other kinds of venues, the Elbphilharmonie was an important place for Back to Tape to be held, because it proved hip-hop’s importance in the musical culture of Hamburg, which is what the Elbphilharmonie and its events represent. The event also represented Porsche’s commitment to this culture and cultural engagement in general as the brand has been a principal sponsor of the Elbphilharmonie since 2021. View All Porsches For Sale Source: Porsche

Shark Blue 911 GT3 Type 992 023 MA905373

By Edward Jones – April 26, 2022

Enter to Win a Chance to Build Your Dream Porsche and Hel...

Presented by the Diabetes Foundation. Don't miss your chance to win a $99,000 gift certificate to Jack Daniels Porsche! For the 37th Diabetes Foundation Porsche Raffle, things have been shaken up in a fantastic way. While in previous years the winner received a new Porsche 911, the winner of this year's event will win a $99,000 gift certificate to Jack Daniels Porsche. With that gift certificate, the winner will be able to build the Porsche of their dreams. From a 911 to even a Taycan, there are so many options available from Porsche that the gift card could go to. Essentially, the winner of this raffle will have an incredibly enjoyable time putting together their dream Porsche and even more fun driving their new ride when it gets delivered. Please help the Diabetes Foundation make a difference in the lives of many people fighting diabetes and its complications every day. Diabetes is hard, but getting help shouldn’t be. The Diabetes Foundation exists to ensure children and adults with diabetes that need help, get help. You can purchase a ticket(s) with a credit card or a check. Checks not cashed will be returned to sender. Checks must be received by June 15, 2022. Online sales need to be made by June 17, 2022 by 11:50 pm. Only 4,000 tickets will be sold so act fast. Enter Raffle About the Diabetes Foundation - The Diabetes Foundation offers free education and support programs in partnership with medical, health and wellness professionals to ensure that individuals with prediabetes, Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes have the knowledge and tools necessary to reduce their risk of developing diabetes or delay or avoid the long-term complications of living with uncontrolled blood sugar.

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