Ferrari News

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 – February 24, 2021

2023 Ferrari Hypercar Confirmed For Endurance Racing

With the first deliveries of the SF90 Stradale, we figured they have a hybrid ace in the hole. Now that a Ferrari hypercar has been confirmed for endurance racing there is no doubt they've been working hard. In a joint press release by Ferrari and the FIA, we've learned that they are returning to the world's most challenging races. The World Endurance Championship's Hypercar class is new for this year. It replaces LMP1 by mandating every car uses the same battery and e-motor technology. Ferrari has not raced in this class since 1973, so they've had a half-century to prepare. Will it be a successor to the FXX K Evo? Click the button to find your hypercar and stay with us as this story develops. LaFerrari For Sale Image (C) FIA

By Edward Jones – February 22, 2021

Ferrari and Richard Mille Sign Exciting Partnership Contract

Ferrari and Richard Mille have announced that they have signed a multi-year partnership contract. This new partnership will be seen in many different ways, starting with the 2021 Formula 1 season. As Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow's Team Partner and Official Watch, Richard Mille's brand will be displayed on the race cars and drivers' helmets. This partnership will also extend to other Ferrari activities, including the Competizione GT, Ferrari Challenge Series, Ferrari Driver Academy, Ferrari Esports Series and FDA Esports team. Now, for the part that you've probably been waiting for. This partnership will also result in a new exclusive range of limited edition watches. Keep an eye out for what's to come from this exciting partnership. See All Ferraris For Sale Source: Ferrari

By Edward Jones – February 22, 2021

Scuderia Ferrari Reveals New Carlos Sainz Jr. Gear

Formula 1 fans, your wait for the 2021 season is almost over as the Bahrain Grand Prix's date of March 28th draws. If you happen to be a Scuderia Ferrari fan and are looking forward to seeing Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, we have some great news for you. Scuderia Ferrari not only has the 2021 Replica gear repping Leclerc already for sale, but they've also just revealed the Carlos Sainz Jr. gear and more. These new additions, which are up for pre-order, include a Sainz hat and shirt, as well as a team vest and sweatshirt. There's a lot within the collection, so be sure to check it all out by clicking the button below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 11, 2021

Zlatan Ibrahimović Spotted Out Driving His Exclusive Ferr...

It’s no secret that celebrities and professional athletes hold the keys to some of the most expensive supercars on the market, but there are still exclusive chassis that is practically impossible to secure. One of those supercars is the Ferrari Monza SP2, a track-inspired monster shaped as a roofless roadster with a $2 million price tag. Professional soccer star, Zlatan Ibrahimović, recently posted a picture to his Facebook of him driving his 1 of 500 limited product supercar. Zlatan’s Ferrari Monza SP2 is a well-executed specification, finishing the exterior in a sleek gloss black while the interior boasts a vibrant red leather cockpit. Complimenting the design features is the performance added by Ferrari, a 6.5-liter V12 pushing 809-horsepower and 530lb-ft of torque. The proof shows that Zlatan Ibrahimović is a superstar on the field, but a supercar enthusiast deep down like the rest of us. For more Celebrity Car news, Check out Justin Bieber’s New Rolls-Royce is Out-Of-This-World Image Source: Zlatan Ibrahimović Facebook

By Andrew Nabors – January 18, 2021

2021 Ferrari F8 Tributo By Novitec Knows No Limits

The Italian Aftermarket is normally based around a few choices for styling and power, but the 2021 Ferrari #8 Tributo by Novitec knows no limits. Back in June, we introduced you to their first upgrades for the mid-engine Ferrari flagship. Now with many builds under their belt, the INCONEL exhaust system can be made to order, with unique offerings for resonator and muffler tone. " width="680"> No less than 72 colors are offered on the forged NF10 wheels, and they are styled in conjunction with their 35mm lowering springs. 2021 Ferrari Monza SP1 By Novitec Doesn’t Disappoint Without losing focus on what everyone wants, their comprehensive intake, tuning, and turbo upgrades are combined to make 802 horsepower and 662 lb-ft of torque. If you need to reach 62 mph in 2.6 seconds, click the button below and give Novitec a call. Browse Ferrari F8 Tributo For Sale Images (C) Novitec Group

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 11, 2021

How To Buy: The Official 2020 Ferrari Yearbook

Although most documented materials are made into digital text that is obtainable using any computer or mobile device, it is nice to possess something more permanent to enjoy for years to come. It's a trend we have covered in the past, described as luxury coffee table books, high-end publications using expertise from professionals, and high-resolution images from photographers. Ferrari continues this tradition with its 49th end-of-year volume, packed with special content showcasing how Ferrari has drawn on its deepest values in response to an unprecedented challenge. The 2020 yearbook is also released with two different covers. As part of Ferrari history, this collectible publication is perfect for any enthusiasts looking to stock up on Italian supercar memorabilia. When: Pre-Order Now (Ships 1/18/2021) Where: Ferrari Store Price: $120 For more Ferrari publication news, Check out Top 10 Coffee Table Books For Car Enthusiasts

By Andrew Nabors – January 06, 2021

2021 Ferrari 812 Superfast By Tailor Made Showcases Unpre...

You deserve the best that Maranello has to offer. If you are unaware of what their artisans have to offer, this new 2021 Ferrari 812 Superfast by Tailor Made showcases unprecedented abilities. Classically trained coachbuilders stand at the ready if you want a Ferrari all your own. 2018 Ferrari 812 Superfast Specs, Price, Photos, & Review By ordering a Tailor Made model, the car will retain a healthy value when it comes time to part ways. The other benefits come from exclusive events for their valued customers. As such, this commission combines old-world influences with the ecstasy of gold. "Pinot Verde" is a perfect shade to express 788 horsepower and 529 lb-ft of torque. You too can experience the poise and composure only offered by Ferrari's flagship by clicking the button below. Browse Ferrari 812 Superfast For Sale Images (C) Ferrari S.p.A.

By Andrew Nabors – December 16, 2020

Ferrari F8 Tributo vs. McLaren 720S Rematch By DragTimes

Consistent 10-second times are a life goal for many. Tires make all the difference when it comes to grudge racing, so let's enjoy a Ferrari F8 Tributo versus McLaren 720S rematch by DragTimes. Brooks is confident that the Italian will decimate all, and Gidi has faith in his carbon fiber supercar. Both cars use twin turbos atop 4-liter V8 engines. Ferrari and McLaren list these cars at 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, so this lineup comes down to sticky tires and a hole shot. Tell us which car you prefer below and stay with us for the latest DragTimes uploads. Browse Ferrari F8 Tributo For Sale Browse McLaren 720S For Sale " width="680"> Film (C) DragTimes

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 15, 2020

TSG Autohaus Has A One-Of-A-Kind 2009 Ferrari F430 Scuder...

As supercar manufacturers like Ferrari begin new ventures with models such as the 488 and 812 Superfast, we tend to look back at their predecessors and the unique specs that now classify them as collector cars. TSG Autohaus specializes in finding these rare specifications and offering one-of-a-kind chassis to the public. The Costa Mesa, California dealer is proud to showcase an extremely rare 2009 Ferrari F430 Scuderia 16M finished in Marrone Metallizzato paint, believed to be the only one of the 499 produced. A similar brown Iroko leather interior and gold-finished wheels complement the design of the F430 Scuderia 16M, even paying homage using the Italian racing livery flag down the center. Along with the added options from the factory, TSG Autohaus holds a complete breakdown of aftermarket accessories added to the Ferrari once ownership was taken. Sold new and serviced locally, this 16M has sat in a private collection its entire life. This is truly an exquisite example of a Ferrari F430 Scuderia 16M, as reportedly under 150 of 499 were brought to the U.S., to which none are uniquely specified as this one. Enquire about this 2009 Ferrari F430 Scuderia 16M from TSG Autohaus by clicking the link below or calling George at (855) 421-8824. View This 2009 Ferrari F430 Scuderia 16M

By Edward Jones – December 15, 2020

RM Sotheby's 'Once In A Millennium' Auction Sees $2 Milli...

RM Sotheby's partnered with Ferrari for the 'Once In A Millennium' auction that saw 16 pieces celebrating Scuderia Ferrari's 1000th Grand Prix cross the block. The event occurred online and the results are more than impressive. The highlight of the auction had to be the SF1000 Formula 1 full-scale show car, which had an estimate going into the event of $243,000 but the hammer price was an astounding $1.54 million. Other lots included a racing suit signed by Mick Schumacher (sold for $55,300), a racing suit signed by Sebastian Vettel (sold for $43,700), a racing suit signed by Charles Leclerc (sold for $77,200) and more. You can see the results for yourself on RM Sotheby's site by clicking here. GP DELL'EMILIA ROMAGNA F1/2020 © FOTO COLOMBO IMAGES, Credit: @Scuderia Ferrari Press Office

Ferrari News

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe