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

Ferrari News

Ferrari news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated daily with model reveals, first drives, auction results and current market prices. Our coverage runs across the whole line-up, from the 296 and 296 Speciale to the SF90 XX, the 12Cilindri and the F80. We also follow the earlier cars that built the reputation of the Prancing Horse over seven decades. Reporting comes from the Monterey and Pebble Beach auction floors, and from first drives of new models as they arrive. One thing separates this from other supercar news: many of the Ferraris covered here are listed for sale on the duPont REGISTRY marketplace. Read the story, then see what an example is genuinely worth. For Ferrari news today, and the exotic car news around it, start here.

By Andrew Nabors – June 25, 2020

Ferrari Maserati of Central Florida to Open Largest Ferra...

Ever since Mr. Disney announced the world's largest Theme Park, Orlando has been breaking records. It was there that I made my entry into exotic cars, working as a service concierge while earning my undergraduate. Central Florida has an automotive culture unlike anything you have seen before, and the owners are not afraid to show off their wealth in the latest Italian supercar. That's why our friends at Ferrari Maserati of Central Florida are about to open the largest Ferrari dealership in the U.S. Construction is underway at 4891 Vineland Road, placing it near the Mall of Millenia and close to Orlando's most exclusive real estate. Five acres of new & pre-owned Ferrari and Maserati will be more enjoyable than any amusement park, and their service center will have offer amenities you can't imagine. As soon as the grand opening is finalized, join us to celebrate the successes of our friends. Until then, click the link below to browse their inventory and plan your Orlando vacation. Browse Inventory " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – April 20, 2020

Ferrari of Central Florida Announces Unprecedented Servic...

Because many enthusiasts are working from home, car repair shops are booked months ahead with maintenance that owners have been putting off. If the timing belts on your 360 are almost due, or if you need a tune-up on your Testarossa, Ferrari of Central Florida has announced unprecedented service savings. If you schedule service before June 1st, you will only pay $99 per hour. This offer is open to the following models: 308 328 550 575 360 348 355 F430 Mondial Testarossa 365BB F40 F50 This is much more affordable than many domestic dealers, let alone a European shop. While your car is there, technicians will address any outstanding campaigns, and any procedures done with Ferrari parts will be backed by a 2-year parts & labor warranty. Complimentary pick up and drop off is included to all Floridians, so get your Italian Stallion in top shape, and stay with us for all your Ferrari news. Browse Inventory https://www.instagram.com/p/B_NSwDHpKcJ/ Contact Ferrari of Central Florida Website: https://www.ferraricf.com/Phone: 888-286-4238Address: 525 South Lake Destiny Drive Orlando, FL 32810

By Andrew Nabors – March 31, 2020

Dealer Details: Scottsdale Ferrari

We have been a sponsor of Barrett-Jackson for over 30 years. Getting around in a taxi or rental car was a way of life untill 2002. That's when our friend Roger Penske decided the city needed an unprecedented exotic car dealership. Ever since, his team have allowed us to borrow an Italian Stallion for our stay, and that is just one example of how Scottsdale Ferrari has the hottest cars in the desert. Our Staff Is Here To Address Your Every Need Looking east from Scottsdale, I have always wanted drive deep into the Superstition Mountains and find the Lost Dutchman's Mine. A brutal 4WD is needed, but Ferrari's SUV development is on hold due to the Italian quarantine, so thankfully there are other options to choose from. Only Penske Group has the power to combine so many brands in one location. So if you don't see a Ferrari that fits you, your other choices are: Maserati Bentley Lamborghini Land Rover-Jaguar Rolls-Royce Aston Martin You can't go wrong with Italian or English luxury, and Scottsdale has amazing scenery for your test drive. Our friends at Automotive News awarded Scottsdale Ferrari as one of the best dealerships to work at in 2019. That speaks volumes about happy employees making sure every customer need is addressed. Click the button below to view their inventory and stay with us for more Penske Group news. View Inventory Contact Scottsdale Ferrari Website: scottsdaleferrari.comPhone: (480) 421-3800 Address: 18118 N. Scottsdale Rd Phoenix, AZ 85056

By Edward Jones – March 16, 2020

Ferrari of Long Island is Bringing Service to Clients

Even though we're in a bit of a circumstance at the moment, that doesn't mean that your car doesn't need service. It also doesn't mean that you can't buy cars. For example, our friends are Ferrari of Long Island are bringing their dealership right to the client's doorstep. Announced on their Instagram page, Ferrari of Long Island will be providing off-site appointments. This mean they'll deliver their vehicles right to your doorstep. If you have a trade-in, they'll come to your home or office to start to the appraisal process. They'll even drive a car over for you to test drive! For more information, be sure to visit FerrariLI.com for more information. View Inventory

By Edward Jones – February 10, 2020

Ferrari of Salt Lake City: Step Into the Extraordinary

Presented by Ferrari of Salt Lake City - It could be said that nobody really owns a Ferrari. Like the prancing horse itself, every vehicle is a fierce and wild creation at its core. Sure, you may be tugging on the reins, but you're also sitting on a beast with more raw power than many will ever have the guts to experience. But maybe that's why a unique change occurs in your life with your first purchase of one. From the moment you sign your name on the dotted line and drive away, something is different. It may be hard to put your finger on the exact source, but, fortunately, we know the secret here at Ferrari of Salt Lake City. VIEW INVENTORY The truth is simple. You're letting something feral and beautiful into your life, opening up to the possibility of more than the mundane. You're starting down a path toward experiences that will undeniably surpass your imagination. And that's what we do at Ferrari of Salt Lake — we don't just sell exotic cars, we sell life-changing experiences. When the Ken Garff Automotive Group acquired Ferrari of Salt Lake City in 2013, we became a leader in retailing luxury brands in Utah. At the same time, we also became the only Ferrari dealership in the state. Since then, we've worked to improve our selection and approach to car sales by creating lifetime customers and a shopping experience tailored to the individual. Nestled in the heart of downtown, Ferrari of Salt Lake City boasts a sleek, state-of-the-art showroom. Built on the historic Ken Garff downtown luxury block, it has become the destination showroom for locals and visitors alike. With top-of-the-line car sales, it's reasonable to expect a similar caliber of sales and service employees — and you won't be disappointed. At our dealership, we employ only the best and brightest. Our long-tenured staff is well-trained and ready to help you with all your exotic vehicle needs. If you're making a purchase, our talented sales specialists are here to help. Do you need a bit of work done on your most prized possession? Our highly-qualified technicians provide our customers with prompt, exceptional service. From oil changes to transmission replacements, we dedicate ourselves to maintaining top-tier customer service for both new and pre-owned car buyers. Whether it's a simple maintenance need or the whisper of untold adventure, Ferrari of Salt Lake City will help you on your journey through the wild world of luxury cars. It's time to eschew the banal habits of every day and step into the extraordinary. VIEW INVENTORY Presented by Ferrari of Salt Lake City Buying and owning a Ferrari isn’t just a decision, it’s a lifestyle choice. Here at Ferrari of Salt Lake City we want you to feel that lifestyle choice from the moment you walk in, and every moment after.FerrariSales.com

By Andrew Nabors – May 14, 2019

Field of Forgotten Ferraris is a Sad Sight

A&E's hit TV show "Hoarders" was a look into the minds of people who can't let anything go. And the value placed on garbage seems illogical at best. But what about people who collect Italian exotics? What you are about to see is a tragedy, because a field of forgotten Ferraris is a sad sight. Ben Branch is the founder and editor of Silodrome, and he heard about this collection from Paul Cox, a prominent figure within Houston's Ferrari scene. A successful lawyer started out collecting Corvettes before turning his attention to Ferrari. As such, his collection grew to include several examples of the 308, 328, 348, Testarossa, and even a few Mondials. What Happened? The cars were stored in a warehouse until he was diagnosed with a serious illness. After missing a few payments, the cars were moved outside sometime around 2012. Once the payments were caught up, the cars were supposed to be moved back in. This never happened and they have been neglected ever since. The author is protecting all names and locations due to ongoing litigation. We do know that of the 11 cars, nine have titles and will be hopefully be restored. This story is bound to have more details, so stay with us for updates. In the meantime, Ferrari of Houston might have the inside scoop. Credit: All images and story Copyright Ben Branch at Silodrome.com

By Andrew Nabors – April 24, 2019

Ferrari Premium: Official Maintenance for Your Classic

Driving an Italian masterpiece that is 20 years old is a labor of love. But with the rise of social media, the owners of many older Ferraris are choosing to avoid their local dealer. In an unprecedented move by the manufacturer, Ferrari Premium offers maintenance and service for older models. The program covers the following models: 456 GT / GTA 456 M GT / GTA 550 Maranello 550 Barchetta 360 Modena (all versions) 575 Maranello 575 Superamerica 612 Scaglietti (all versions) F430 (all versions) 599 GTB Fiorano 599 SA Aperta 599 GTO Ferrari Enzo If your car is eligible, they look up your car's service history. If it meets the criteria you will receive a certificate stating that all service and recalls have been done by Ferrari technicians. What's even better is that wear items are replaced according to a schedule. This includes (but not limited to) fuel, lubrication, power steering, and brakes. While they won't be free, the parts and labor will be discounted by a nice percentage. Perhaps the best part of Ferrari Premium happens on the 20th anniversary of your car's registration. You will automatically be submitted to Ferrari Classiche, the ultimate testament to your car's provenance. Our dealers have all the info, so click the link below and let the experts take care of your prized rides. Find Your Ferrari Dealer Here Related: The ONLY Six-Speed Ferrari F430 Scuderia is For Sale Why the Ferrari F40 Should Be Part of your Collection

By Andrew Nabors – January 15, 2018

Fantastic Four: Exceptional Selection of Ferraris at Alga...

If winter has you feeling blue, we have something guaranteed to lift your spirits. It was down in the 40's here in Florida, so we asked our dealers for their hottest deals. Algar Ferrari in Philly sent over a quartet of rare Italian Stallions.1980 F12 Berlinetta BoxerFirst up is an immaculate 512 Berlinetta Boxer. If you like the sound and power of a carburetor, this 5.0 liter flat-12 has four Weber carbs. Fuel injection arrived in '81, so this car is the end of an era. With only 9,767 miles, it is a pristine example of a car Ferrari never intended to sell in the US. Only 929 examples were produced between 1976 and '81, and their performance was unmatched. It arrived with a twin-disk clutch and dry-sump oil system for reliability on the track. Officially rated at 360 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque, these light & nimble machines are a blast to drive.View Price & Specs2017 GTC4 LussoThey did it because everyone said it wasn't possible. Nobody thought Ferrari would build a hatchback 4-seater with AWD. The GTC4 Lusso has a 680 horsepower twin turbo V8 delivering 514 lb-ft of torque to all wheels. It is laden with standard equipment to offer the best traction in any situation. The AWD system is combined with an electronic differential, magnetic suspension, and 4 wheel steering. Inside you are treated to a dual-cockpit design, with the passenger is treated to a display of traction and engine data. A panoramic roof offers an unobstructed view of the sky for all passengers. Only 3,832 miles means this car is still under warranty and service is included. Dare to be different.View Price & Specs2010 458 ItaliaThe best business is repeat business, and Algar takes pride in offering this one again. It was purchased new, traded in and sold to its second owner by the same sales team. Being delivered and serviced exclusively by Algar, it has a complete history from Maranello to now. Optioned to the stratosphere, it has yellow calipers, Daytona seats, 2-tone interior, fire extinguisher, car cover, battery tender, yellow tach, and 20" forged wheels. The 458 Italia is powered by Ferrari's final naturally aspirated V8 engines. It makes power from idle to 9,000 rpm, and you dont have to worry about enine-out services of yesteryear. The 458 has timing chains instead of belts used on the older cars. And with only 13,568 miles, you have the best years ahead of you. This banana is ripe for the picking!View Price & Specs2009 430 Scuderia Spider 16MFerrari knows how to celebrate a Formula1 victory. In fact, they have won the manufacturer's championship no less than 16 times. To show the world what they are capable of, the 16M was the ultimate Ferrari convertible. Not simply an F430 Scuderia built with a convertible top, it was a statement to the world. The exhaust system was taken directly from the track, and the interior was carbon fiber except for the seats. Only 499 examples were produced, this one is finished in Tour de Force Blue with a blue top and a red tachometer. With only 2,720 miles, it is ready to be the centerpiece of your collection.View Price & Specs As always, we strive to bring you the best deals on the best Ferraris, so stay with us and check out Algar's other inventory.Browse Algar Ferrari Inventory

By Edward Jones – June 10, 2016

#TheDriver, Ferrari California T HS and Dream On!

This stylish video shows the latest and greatest convertible GT from Ferrari: the California T Handling Speciale, the dream car for your dream job, #TheDriver. Going along with the sounds of Enzo Ferrari’s inspirational interviews are scenes of what your day can be behind the wheel of a Ferrari California T:an exhilarating journey like the one of #The Driver. And, this makes perfect sense, considering Ferrari was born and bred behind one of the world’s most thrilling sports: motorsports. The HS stands for Handling Speciale, meaning it provides an even sportier and more involved driving experience. How is this done? Ferrari has given the California T HS a more “sportier” engine sound thanks to a new exhaust system, reduced its body roll, reduced steering wheel activity, improved steering responsiveness, stiffer springs (16 percent more up front and 19 percent in the rear). Never before has the Ferrari California been more agile around corners, nor has it sounded so beautiful. What’s more, none of these modifications impede on the car’s comfort. If #TheDriver needs an even sportier drive, the new California T HS offers the mannettino’s Sport mode. Through this bespoke solution, the damper settings and springs become stiffer, allowing for a more aggressive driving and more feedback to the road beneath. Making the whole experience of driving the Ferrari California T HS all the better is the ability to put down the top and enjoy the fresh air. Those who are looking to become a part of this journey or are already enjoying it ought to check out Mattioli Automotive Group’s exceptional dealers in California: Ferrari Beverly Hills, Ferrari Los Angeles, Ferrari South Bay and Ferrari Silicon Valley. Mattioli Automotive Group is proud to offer California’s largest community of Ferraristitheir exquisite boutiques. Their showrooms not only offer state-of-the-art new and pre-owned sales and Factory-Authorized Service Center, but also Classiche factory certification, collision repair and genuine parts. Do they stop there? Of course not. Knowing that Ferraris were built around racing, they have their very own Championship-winning racing team – Scuderia Corsa. If you’d like to learn more about everything that Mattioli Automotive Group has to offer or are interested in your very own California T HS, be sure to click the button below. Learn more

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – February 11, 2016

Ferrari of Newport Beach Celebrates Clients with Supercar...

Ferrari of Newport Beach is pleased to announce the annual Client Appreciation Dinner was a huge success with our loyal and new clients joining together for an unforgettable night. The Ferrari of Newport Beach Client Appreciation Dinner took place on the night of February 2, 2016 at Mastro’s Ocean Club located off Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach CA where customers were treated to a five-star dinner with wine pairing from Hundred Acre winery. With 220 guests in attendance and over 100 Ferraris accounted for, the most prestigious restaurant in Orange County was entirely reserved for Ferrari of Newport Beach clients who purchased their Ferrari in 2015. This cordial, annual gathering is a fantastic opportunity for Ferrari enthusiasts to enjoy themselves with like-minded owners.Prancing horses of all types and colors were corralled into the restaurant parking lot. Vehicle models present included: three LaFerrari, a 1969 Ferrari 365 GTC, several 458 Speciale and 458 Aperta, California, California T, F12, 599, 458 Coupe and Spider, FF, F430 Spider, and a 360 Spider. In total, over 100 Ferraris were on display as guests were treated to an unforgettable night under the gorgeous Orange County night sky.This annual Client Appreciation Dinner is a special night for Tim Rogers, General Manager of Ferrari of Newport Beach: "This is a true celebration of those who purchased a Ferrari in 2015 and their passion for the brand".With this night etched in the history books, Ferrari of Newport Beach is already looking forward to the 2017 event with clients who purchase a Ferrari during the 2016 calendar year.View Ferrari of Newport Beach's Inventory

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