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

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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.

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By Tyler Rampersaud – March 22, 2023

Azzurro California Ferrari Portofino M For Sale

With summer approaching, this Ferrari is a droptop dream.

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 01, 2022

The All-New Exclusive NOVITEC Range For The Ferrari Porti...

It allows making the sporty and elegant appearance of the drop-top 2+2 seater even more thrilling with tailor-made NOVITEC upgrades. Establishing its dominance as one of the most well-known supercar manufacturers in the automotive world, the Ferrari brand prides itself on incorporating the perfect blend of design, performance, and technology into its lineup of exclusive vehicles. Although each prancing horse leaves Maranello, Italy perfectly fit from the factory, owners enhance styling and performance aspects with high-end aftermarket components from industry-leading companies. The modification professionals at NOVITEC specialize in fitting factory Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Maserati, Rolls-Royce, and Tesla models with aftermarket upgrades, completely reimagining the look and feel of each vehicle. NOVITEC is proud to announce its new refinement range for the Ferrari Portofino M, the latest generation front-engined sports car from the Italian manufacturer. The letter “M” stands for “Modificata” and distinguishes the facelift version of the Ferrari Portofino, naturally making it the ideal donor for the creative gear heads at NOVITEC. MUST-READ: One-of-a-kind, Tailor Made Ferrari Portofino in Azzuro Lechler For Sale Starting at the exterior of the Portofino M, NOVITEC enhances Ferrari’s elegant and sporty look with naked-carbon components that shed weight while adding to its aerodynamics. Subtle aesthetic highlights accentuate its elongated body by replacing side panels, mirror covers, rear spoiler lip, hood vent covers, and front inlets with motorsport-inspired designs. Along with presenting a new head-turning look, NOVITEC achieves its ultra-aggressive appearance with sport suspension setups that lower the Portofino M’s ride height while improving overall handling. Three new high-tech lightweight forged wheel configurations are offered, measuring at a larger 21/22-inch size than original factory specs. With an all-new look, the Ferrari Portofino M can generate more power with various performance and exhaust upgrades. NOVITEC engine tuning allows up to a maximum output of 704 horsepower and 651 foot-pounds of torque, while completely changing the tone of Ferrari’s 3.9-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V8. It enables the tuned Portofino M to sprint from 0-60mph in just 3.15 seconds and reaches a top speed of 202mph. NOVITEC also fulfills even the most unusual requests of its clientele regarding cockpit design. View all current Ferrari Portofino inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below for more information. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury lifestyle and supercar news. VIEW ALL FERRARI PORTOFINO FOR SALE Source: NOVITEC

By Edward Jones – July 29, 2022

One-of-a-kind, Tailor Made Ferrari Portofino in Azzuro Le...

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By Andrew Nabors – May 11, 2021

Ferrari Unveils The New Portofino M In Ireland

The Emerald Isle is perfect for top-down cruising. Everything automotive can be more rewarding in a convertible. That's why Ferrari has unveiled the new Portofino M in Ireland. A road-trip from England and through Wales proves their efforts have paid off. The suffix M is for Modified, and they left no stone unturned. Starting with subtle changes to the body, aerodynamics have been enhanced to keep the cockpit quiet with the top down. This was done because you will have 612 horsepower at your command. Their latest 3.9-liter V8 is paired with an all-new 8-speed dual-clutch transaxle. The Portofino M is truly a delight! This sleek 2+2 retains the retracting hardtop we first loved on the California. Now capable of raising and lowering up to 31 mph, its the perfect car for any weather. With 561 lb-ft of torque at almost any RPM, it will return impressive fuel mileage on the highway. Our dealers have all the details, so click the button below and stay with us for all your Ferrari news. Browse Ferrari Portofino For Sale Images (C) Ferrari

By Edward Jones – October 30, 2020

See the Ferrari Portofino M Race Through the Italian Riviera

The Ferrari Portofino M has retuned to where its predecessor, the Portofino, was revealed back in 2017: the Italian Riviera. Ferrari took the new open-top supercar out for a cruise around the beautiful scenery, creating a visual masterpiece. With its sleek lines and undeniable elegance, the Portofino M fits in perfectly at such a scenic location. In the video below, you can watch as the Portofino M stretches its legs on winding roads and pull up to some very notable locations. Check it out for yourself in the video below and click the button if you'd like to see all Ferrari Portofinos for sale on duPontREGISTRY.com. See All Portofinos For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – September 16, 2020

2021 Ferrari Portofino M Offers More Power, Style & Techn...

Looking back through Maranello's 2+2 convertibles, it seems that these Grand Touring machines were never given the latest upgrades. It was not until the California T that they began to focus on refining this segment. Now you have another supercar to choose from as the 2021 Ferrari Portofino M offers more power, style & technology. Starting under the hood, you will find their bulletproof 3.8-liter twin turbo. With new cams and computer-controlled turbos, it offers 620 horsepower at 7,500 rpm. Each turbo has an integrated tachometer so the computer can keep them at an optimal speed. This load map changes by gear and throttle position so yo will have 560 lb-ft of torque at an instant. Mounted at the rear is an all-new 8-speed automatic. Built to stay in-boost through each shift, their goal of "Zero Turbo Lag" has been achieved. This allowed them to spread out the gear ratios to allow 8th to deliver incredible fuel economy in normal driving. That's because this is their first GT convertible to have "Race" mode. The manetino dial now has five modes, something we have been waiting years to see. " width="680"> This allows the computer to share the same systems found on the 488 GTB, such as: Side Slip Control, Electronic Differential, F1-TCS, SCM-E, and the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer. The latter is activated in Race Mode to keep the brake pads closer to the calipers for quick reactions. Engineers also removed a pair of resonators from the exhaust, so you will really hear this Prancing Horse when spurred. Browse Ferrari Portofino For Sale From the nose to tail, every body panel has been optimized for more stability at higher speeds and the interior is much more intuitive. With all these attributes considered, the 2021 Ferrari Portofino M isn't an upgrade, it is a new car that will be arriving soon. Click the button above to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Ferrari news.

By Andrew Nabors – August 23, 2017

Say Hello to the Ferrari Portofino, Goodbye California T

Maranello has built something new, and it's heading for the Frankfurt Auto Show. The new Ferrari Portofino was released, and it looks spectacular. It seems like only yesterday that the California was unveiled, but it was a decade ago. Named for a fishing village on the Italian Riviera, it as far from California as you would imagine. That is because everything is new from the ground up. Chassis design and high strength composites have come a long way in the past years, so it has allowed the Portofino to be lighter and stronger than its predecessor. Building a convertible that doesn't get floppy when cornering also helps to provide grip for impressive launches. Ferrari says the new car can leap to 62 mph (100kph) in only 3.5 seconds. It might be the world's fastest 4 seat hardtop convertible thanks to 600 cv, or metric horsepower. Italians seem to love this standard for some reason, but the difference is minuscule. The 3.8 liter V8 delivers 591 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque. As with most flat-plane V8 engines, max horsepower is at a screaming 7,500 rpm, while torque is a broad plateau from 3,000 to 5,250 rpm. Taking a page from the 488 series, boost from the turbos is computer controlled. It allows for instant throttle response along with better fuel mileage, which is music to our ears. Attention to detail is also evident in the interior. A new 10.2" touchscreen is competitive with other luxury models, and new 18-way seats offer more comfort up front along with more leg room for back seaters. The A/C and climate control is more powerful, to provide cooling with the top down. Attention to detail is also evident in the interior. A new 10.2" touchscreen is competitive with other luxury models, and new 18-way seats offer more comfort up front along with more leg room for back seaters. The A/C and climate control is more powerful, to provide cooling with the top down. The body has influences from the F12 series, and new LED headlights are combined with air vents that feed into the front wheel wells. This takes high-pressure air off of the nose and uses it to clean up turbulence under the body. The days of Pininfarina styling are over, and the Portofino is a modern look from their own internal designers. If you have been dreaming of a fastback hardtop convertible, your wait is over. The Portofino has erupted with the ferocity of Mount Vesuvius, with an impact that will be felt for years to come. Our dealers will need to clear out the Californias to make room, so check out the great deals in the link below and stay with us for all your Ferrari news. Ferrari California T For Sale

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