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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 Andrew Nabors – January 12, 2021

2021 Caterham Academy Is Your Ticket To Race

No other motorsports training is this inclusive. If you need a new car along with training by England's best instructors, the 2021 Caterham Academy is your ticket to race. With a starting price of £29,995 ($40,800), you will receive extensive training, entry to seven races against other students, and a shiny new Caterham Seven street-legal race car. This modern interpretation of the classic Lotus for sale, it offers Bilstein suspension, a 5-speed manual, and 125 horsepower. Only a few openings are left for this year's class, so click the button to reserve your spot. Learn More In case you missed it, learning to drive a new Corvette for sale can now be done on Forza Horizon 4! " width="680"> Image (C) Caterham Cars Limited

By Andrew Nabors – January 05, 2021

Relive The 2020 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance Tonight...

You can't deny that the outbreak put a hit on the world's biggest automotive events. In case you missed the festivities in March, you can relive the 2021 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance tonight on NBCSN. "Driving Amelia" is an hour-long documentary highlighting the events and automotive celebrities that make the week unlike any other. Tune in tonight at 10pm ET for a recap with host Roger Penske. Here is a look at what our guests are treated to: " width="680"> As a native of the island, this show is how I became addicted to the world's greatest car magazine, so I shall refrain from interjecting any personal bias. Instead, I invite you to stop by our display this year, so we'll see you there! Image (C) Deremer Studios

By Andrew Nabors – December 10, 2020

Mecum Auctions Houston Puts 2020 In The Record Books

Despite the calamities caused by the virus, the market for classic and exotic cars is stronger than ever. We see this in reports from our clients and results from events, as Mecum Auctions' Houston puts 2020 in the record books. This three day event took place over the weekend, and it saw $14.7 million in overall sales. If you missed the live stream, here are the top ten: 1941 Ford Custom Pickup (Lot S81) at $206,250 1990 Land Rover Defender 110 Custom (Lot S108) at $176,000 2013 Ford E350 Sportsmobile (Lot S180) at $176,000 1934 Lincoln KA Convertible (Lot S143) at $137,500 1987 Porsche 930 Turbo (Lot S110.1) at $132,000 2004 Ferrari 360 Spider (Lot S132) at $126,500 1962 Mercedes-Benz 190SL (Lot F125.1) at $121,000 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible (Lot S130.1) at $115,500 2010 Dodge Viper ACR Final Edition (Lot S72) at $110,000 1963 Lincoln Continental Convertible (Lot S124) at $106,700 As you can see from the top three, Texans love trucks. The new Corvette convertible was hours old when it hammered above sticker price, and an 87 Porsche 911 Turbo was a bargain at $132,000. You won't find another venue with such a diverse offering of cars and trucks for sale, and that is why we are part of every Mecum auction. In the coming weeks we will preview their 2021 lineup, so click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all you Mecum news. Browse Inventory At Mecum Auctions " width="680"> Image (C) Mecum Auctions

By Andrew Nabors – November 09, 2020

Mecum Indy Fall Auction Proves Live Events Are As Strong ...

A Blue Moon on Halloween was supposed to be scary for all walks of life. But instead of panhandling for candy, we were glued to the TV. That's because Mecum's Indy Fall Auction proved that live events are as strong as ever. Our friend Dana Mecum sent his team around the country to round up classics and exotics that needed new homes. The 3-day event was highlighted by private collections that saw 543 cars sell for $13.4 million. When it was all said and over, only 15% of the consignments were left over. This unprecedented sell-through rate is proof that our hobby is strong despite the gloom of COVID fears. What was not surprising was the cast of characters in the Top 10: 2018 Lamborghini Huracan LP580-2 (Lot F141) at $187,000 1969 Chevrolet COPO Camaro (Lot S88) at $165,000 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle Convertible (Lot S127) at $154,000 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split Window Coupe (Lot S60) at $151,250 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E (Lot S81) at $132,000 1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS Pro Touring (Lot S84) at $126,500 1971 Ford Bronco (Lot S118) at $115,500 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 (Lot S138) at $110,000 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe (Lot S101.1) at $104,500 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Centennial Edition (Lot F111) at $102,300 Aside from a few outliers, this was a Chevrolet party. Leave it to Lamborghini to take top honors, this is proof in the power of each Huracan for sale. With over a thousand cars lineup their next events will be as entertaining as ever. So click the button to browse them and stay with us for all your Mecum news. View Upcoming Lots " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – September 25, 2020

Ultimate Hypercar Faceoff: Chiron Sport, Huayra BC, Reger...

Automotive Mike produces amazing videos, so he is often invited to the world's best events. The Swiss Alps are the perfect backdrop for a supercar showdown, although the altitude leaves naturally aspirated cars at a disadvantage. Nevertheless, being the crossroads of Europe, it allows Italians, Germans, French, Austrians, and nearly every nationality to be represented. Here is a short list of attendees: Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Bugatti Chiron Sport Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Bugatti Veyron L'Or Blanc Bugatti Veyron Supersport Ferrari 488 Pista Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato Ferrari Enzo Ferrari F12tdf Ferrari LaFerrari Koenigsegg Agera R Koenigsegg Agera X Koenigsegg ONE:1 Koenigsegg Regera Lamborghini Aventador SVJ McLaren Senna Mercedes SLS AMG Black Series Mercedes C63 S AMG Mercedes SLR McLaren Roadster Pagani Huayra BC Pagani Huayra Roadster Pagani Zonda Cinque Pagani Zonda F Pagani Zonda Unica Porsche 918 Spyder Weissach Porsche Carrera GT While each one can be a museum piece, we are thankful for drivers who enjoy their cars in action. The event went off without and issues, so a big thanks to Automotive Mike for sharing this with us. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – September 17, 2020

2021 Music City Grand Prix Confirmed for Downtown Nashville

From great weather to amazing history, there is nothing not to like about the Capital of Tennessee. Aside from the Grand Ole Opry and the Hermitage, we now have another reason to visit, That's because the 2021 Music City Grand Prix has been confirmed for downtown Nashville. The exciting course will cross the Cumberland River with the paddock located in the vast parking lot of Nissan Stadium. " width="680"> If you have never been to an IndyCar race, the sound and speed will have you addicted. Local News Channel 5 (WTVF) anticipates this event could bring over $20 million to downtown, an area that has been hit hard by the virus. Make plans to be there for the weekend of August 6th of next year, and come see us next month at the St. Petersburg Grand Prix starting October 23rd. IndyCar is making a comeback in a way, and we're looking forward to it.

By Andrew Nabors – April 17, 2020

Watch the Entire 2019 Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction ...

While there are signs that we are winning against the virus, staying inside is still mandatory in most states. That's why our friend Craig Jackson and his team have created the ultimate playlist for us. So get your meals prepped and fire up YouTube to watch the entire Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction this weekend. A year ago we had an amazing display and unprecedented traffic through our booth. Next year we will make it even better, so stay with us for all your Barrett-Jackson updates. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9lPq2ClaOUPSaW97EmHwQ_LNxT5nLiXX

By Andrew Nabors – February 17, 2020

duPont REGISTRY Cars & Coffee February 2020

Call it a Polar Vortex, cold snap, or lack of warmth, Saturday was a cold morning. Nevertheless, our faithful fans enjoyed the extra power offered by the cold & dense air. It was the first time we have seen a new Ferrari R8 Tributo in person, and it does not disappoint. A new ICON A5 Amphibious plane arrived on a trailer, and it is a marvel of modern aeronautical design. Two pristine deTomaso Panteras were parked across from an original Hurst GTO, and our west lot was filled with new & old domestic power. The east side was filled with air-cooled Porsches of all ages, a pristine Jaguar E-type, and several Ferrari 488 coupes & Spiders. With two commercial coffee pots running wide open, we reached a new record of 14 gallons between 6 and 8:30 A.M. We couldn't do this without our sponsors, so here's to all our friends at: Paddock1.com The Auto Den Ferrari of Tampa Bay European Exotic Center Dimmitt Luxury Cars ICON Aviation St. Petersburg Grand Prix We'll see you all next month Peter O. Knight Airport on Davis Islands. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – February 03, 2020

'Roos Ruin 12 Hours of Bathurst

It is Summer down under, and the recent fires have forced animals to find new homes. In this massive marsupial migration, Kangaroos ruined the 12 hours of Bathurst. Epic footage of this season's GT3 cars idling along is accompanied by hilarious Aussie color commentators. One Roo turned off traction control at 0:25, but quickly recovered to 2nd place. Happy Monday from all of us at duPont REGISTRY! Used Exotic Cars For Sale " width="680"> Related: Sultan of Brunei's Collection is at 7,000 Cars & Growing

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By Andrew Nabors – October 11, 2019

McLaren Newport Beach Hosts Supercar Show Orange County

Summer is over and Autumn has arrived. That is why our friends at McLaren Newport Beach added a theme to their monthly gathering: "FALL-ing"for supercars. Only a few minutes away was the Anaheim Autoshow, but I was too busy to make the trip. I missed a wild collection of exotics, muscle, and classics. Of course, McLarens are the preferred marque, but spectators were treated to everything. A Fiat Jolly and Autobianchi were chasing each other while a 1965 Lamborghini 330 GT took top honors. " width="680"> Dealer employees endowed several cars with Halloween decorations. Their newest inventory is too nice to defile, as it is comprised of five Aventador SVJ, a McLaren 600LT with MSO roof scoop, Ferraris, Ford GTs, and a Senna ordered by the owner of Giovanna wheels. Browse Inventory Next month's theme will be "Back in Time". And unless you have a time machine you need to register early. Click the button above to view their amazing inventory and be sure to join us Saturday, October 19th at Davis Island at 7AM.

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