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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

A vintage Ford GT40, boasting the number 4 and painted in vibrant shades of green, red, and brown, roars down the track beneath a cloudy sky. This iconic gem is set to turn heads at RM Sotheby's Miami Auction.

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 04, 2025

Legendary 1966 Ford GT40 Mk II Sells For $13.2 Million At...

A historic 1966 Ford GT40 Mk II, raced at Le Mans and Sebring, sells for eight-figures. One of the most legendary endurance race cars of all time just sold at RM Sotheby's auction event during ModaMiami for a jaw-dropping $13.2 million. The 1966 Ford GT40 Mk II, chassis P/1032, features an incredible racing resume, including a second-place finish at the 12 Hours of Sebring and a run at the 24 Hours of Le Mans as a Holman-Moody entry. After its racing career, the car played a crucial role as a test mule for Ford's continued endurance racing development, preparing for future Le Mans dominance. Following its time on the track, the GT40 was displayed at European motor shows before finding a long-term home at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where it remained for over five decades. Darin Schnable/RM Sotheby's Restored in 2011 to its original Le Mans configuration, this GT40 represents a pivotal chapter in Ford's historic battle against Ferrari in the 1960s. The GT40 program famously delivered a 1-2-3 winning sweep at Le Mans in 1966, cementing Ford's reputation as a champion in endurance racing. This particular car, driven by Mark Donohue and Paul Hawkins at Le Mans, stands out as one of only eight Mk II examples ever built. Its record sale proves the ongoing appreciation for race-winning examples and Ford's iconic racing heritage. With its rarity, racing history, and detailed restoration, it's no surprise that this GT40 brought such a significant price at auction. Darin Schnable/RM Sotheby's For collectors and motorsport enthusiasts, news of this monumental sale is a reminder of why the GT40 remains one of the most celebrated endurance race cars ever built. Its legacy, tied to Ford's fight with Ferrari at Le Mans, fascinates generations of racing fans. With this GT40 now in new hands, it will be exciting to see where it turns up next—whether in a private collection, at prestigious Concours events, or even returning to the track for historic racing. View all RM Sotheby's inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All RM Sotheby's Inventory Source: Kegun Morkin/Darin Schnable/RM Sotheby's

By Tyler Rampersaud – January 07, 2025

Ken Block's "Hoonitruck" 917HP 1977 Ford F-150 To Be Auct...

The late legend’s masterpiece will be up for auction soon. Whether for his longstanding racing career in the rally world, or for the iconic, loved, and viral Gymkhana series of videos, the late Ken Block is one of the most respected and revered people in the automotive world. His years-long legacy of incredible stunts and racing achievements has inspired and wowed enthusiasts, and the cars that participated in that legacy have earned a reputation as some of the most desired collector cars on the market. One of those is the “Hoonitruck,” a customized 1977 Ford F-150 that was the result of two years of engineering work in collaboration with Detroit Speed, including a bespoke intake manifold from Ford Performance. As a result of its incredible engineering, the Hoonitruck sends an amazing 917 horsepower through its twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine to all four wheels, and its other extensive modifications throughout made it a bespoke creation purpose-built for incredible viral drifting stunts. The truck will soon be up for auction at the upcoming Barrett-Jackson 2025 Scottsdale Auction. As a vehicle with an incredible legacy as one of the Gymkhana vehicles driven by the legendary Ken Block, and as an amazingly engineered custom racing truck with serious performance ability, the auction of this unique vehicle is highly anticipated. View All Vehicles For Sale From Barrett-Jackson Collection Showroom Image Source: Barrett-Jackson

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 20, 2023

Two Matching Collector-Grade Ford GT Generations Up For A...

The Ford GT was not only a tribute to the past, but a bold stride into the future of automotive excellence The Ford GT epitomizes the pinnacle of American automotive engineering in the realm of motorsports and limited-production series. This legendary supercar, with its deep roots in racing heritage, continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. From its historic victory at Le Mans in 1966, the Ford GT has become synonymous with American motorsport success. The revival of the Ford GT in the 21st century only cemented its status as a motorsport icon, blending cutting-edge technology with awe-inspiring aesthetics. The limited production of the GT not only highlights its exclusivity but also its role as a symbol of prestige in the automotive world. It continues to represent the United States on the global stage, pushing the boundaries of what American-made supercars can achieve. As an emblem of American performance and exclusivity, the Ford GT is a piece of motorsport history. It remains a sought-after vehicle for the discerning enthusiast, embodying the spirit of American racing and the pursuit of excellence in vehicle production. Presented as an unbelievably rare opportunity to own pieces of Ford history, Sotheby's Motorsport is pleased to present a 2006 Ford GT and 2021 Ford GT as two of its newest listings up for auction. View All Sotheby's Motorsport Auction Listings 2006 Ford GT The first generation Ford GT was born to celebrate Ford's centennial and simultaneously resurrect its legendary performance racing history. Conceived in 2002, the development of this iconic sports car was spearheaded by Ford's then-Vice President of Design, J Mays. The 2006 Ford GT offered here shows just over 3,700 miles on the clock and has remained with one owner since new; its exceptional condition is a testament to the owner's meticulous care. It is finished in Centennial White with optional blue racing stripes over an Ebony leather interior, perhaps the most iconic and well-known GT combination. Outside, the optional lightweight forged aluminum wheels are complemented by gray-painted brake calipers mounted over the massive ventilated and cross-drilled rotors. Inside the sleek, rocket ship interior, bolstered sport seats trimmed in Ebony leather ensure the occupants stay firmly put even at breakneck speeds while the optional McIntosh sound system provides entertainment. Rarely does a first-generation example of this caliber present itself, and this example checks every box for the discerning collector. The car is now offered with a clean Carfax report, a third-party inspection report, and a clean Florida title. View Auction Listing 2021 Ford GT The second generation Ford GT was conceptualized as both a testament to innovation and a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the original GT40's historic 1-2-3 victory at Le Mans in 1966. The 2021 Ford GT offered here presents in immaculate, like-new condition, showing a mere 29 miles on the odometer. Nearly $50,000 worth of desirable options further enhance this example's appeal, including the Dark Energy interior upgrade package, a comprehensive cabin overhaul that adds boundless carbon fiber and alluring black finishes. The leather-wrapped F1-inspired steering wheel, Sparco carbon fiber racing seats trimmed with black Alcantara, matte carbon instrument bezels, and anodized black aluminum shift paddles complete the dark, jet-fighter interior. Outside, the car is finished in Frozen White with optional Lightning Blue stripes, a livery that evokes Ford's racing history in an immediately recognizable fashion. Matching blue-painted Brembo brake calipers are mounted over ventilated and cross-drilled carbon ceramic rotors, appearing as jewels under the 20" satin silver wheels. On the road or the track, the speed-activated splitter and deployable rear wing keep downforce high, while the push-button front lift system makes day-to-day navigation simple. Offered here with special permission from Ford, this example represents a rare opportunity to own a virtually brand-new GT. A GT Design Spec order kit, a clean Carfax report, a third-party inspection report, and a clean Montana title will accompany the vehicle. View Auction Listing Source: Sotheby's Motorsport

By Tyler Rampersaud – January 23, 2023

The First New Ford Mustang GT Will be Auctioned At Barret...

A certain future classic goes to auction. The Ford Mustang is, without a doubt, one of the most important cars to come out of the United States, and for decades on end it has proved itself as one of the greatest domestic automotive achievements and secured a place as one of the automotive world’s greatest legends. The iconic Ford Mustang GT is entering its seventh generation, and the new car has already proven itself to be a great improvement on the iconic performance staple, with the most powerful engine a Mustang GT has had yet, a 486-horsepower, 418 lb/ft of torque iteration of the 5.0-liter Coyote V8. The redesigned look adds even more homage to the 60s Mustang that cemented the legacy of the Mustang name, and with the option of a 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic, it’s a tradition-honoring driver’s car. MUST READ: The GearBox: Ford Performance At Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale, Arizona auction, the ownership of the very first seventh-generation 2024 Mustang GT will cross the auction block, and the winning bidder will have the opportunity to configure their VIN 001 car. Proceeds from the sale of the car will go towards JDRF, the leading organization researching Type 1 diabetes. With great performance, a long and respected history, and all the qualities to impress just about any car enthusiast, the 2024 Ford Mustang GT is an incredible car. However, with the collectible VIN 001, and the first car going towards a great cause, this car is all the more desirable. View All Ford Mustang GTs For Sale Source: Ford

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 01, 2021

Kanye West Is Auctioning Off His Wyoming Ford Fleet

Along with his ranch, Kanye is selling his six Ford models used on the property. After recent news of Kanye West listing his $11 million Wyoming Ranch on the market, the American musician, artist, designer, and entrepreneur is also selling off his fleet of vehicles at auction through Musser Bros. Auctions. The collection of ranch-style vehicles includes a 2017 Ford F-250, 2016 Ford F-350, 2020 Ford Expedition, 2020 Ford Expedition Limited Stealth, 2018 Ford F-150 Raptor, and 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor. The fleet features matching matte black designs with modest aftermarket upgrades to withstand the Wyoming ranch lifestyle. The celebrity auction listing for Kanye West’s Wyoming vehicles is currently available through Musser Bros. Auctions with an end date on November 5th at 5:02 pm. Check out the collection of Fords from Kanye West by clicking the link below. View Kanye West's Ford Auction on Musser Bros. Source: Musser Bros. Auctions

By Edward Jones – February 15, 2021

GAA Classic Cars Feb. 2021 Auction: 2017 Ford GT '66 Her...

Presented by GAA Classic Cars - Going up for auction at GAA Classic Cars' February 2021 event is a very special Ford. This 2017 Ford GT is #50 and has only 12 actual miles on its odometer. That's an insane mileage for a car that's begging to be driven. It's finished in the '66 Heritage Edition livery with a black body that's cut down the center by a silver racing stripe. Inside is a black interior that perfectly matches the exterior. Just like the other 2017 Ford GTs, this example comes packing a 3.5 liter V6 EcoBoost engine that's mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. That engine provides the GT with 647 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque, which is good for a top speed of 216 mph. To put it quite bluntly, Ford's third-generation GT is a true supercar that is one of the best-looking vehicles on the road today. This 2017 Ford GT will be auctioned off at GAA Classic Cars' February 2021, which run from the 25th to the 27th. For more information about the event, click here. View Listing

By Andrew Nabors – June 11, 2020

2018 Ford GT Heading to Barrett-Jackson July Auction

We may be at a crossroads when it comes to auctions. While nothing beats the fanfare and camaraderie of attending a Barrett-Jackson auction, many of us can't carve it out of our workload. By ramping up their online presence and moving to the fastest servers on the market, Craig Jackson and his team have an impressive docket for next month. 2018 Ford GT Specs, Price, Photos & Review Eclipsing everything else in the lineup is a 2018 Ford GT. It is the first time this model-year has been offered at an auction, and chassis #74 has only been driven 850 miles. If you need 647 horsepower and the ability to reach 217 mph, click below to find a Ford GT for yourself and stay with us for all your Barrett-Jackson news. Browse Ford GT For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – May 08, 2020

Paul Walker's 1969 Boss 429 Mustang Heading to Mecum Indy

The star of the Fast & Furious franchise left us too early, and he left behind an amazing car collection to his daughter. Many associate Paul Walker with Japanese performance, but he was a fan of anything fast. That includes the halo car for Ford fans, the Boss 429. It is a monument to excess in the muscle car era, something to give Chevy's 427 a run for their money. Ford had great success with their 427 in the Cobra and GT40, and the 428 was a favorite among cops and highway patrol. But they needed something all new for NASCAR. The Boss 429 used hemispherical combustion chambers and spawned an even larger 460 that was in production until 1999. In order for NASCAR to allow the engine in competition, Ford had to build street-legal cars for homologation. The massive 429 would not fit between the shock towers, so their experimental division known as Kar Kraft assembled 1,359 Cobra Jet bodies to accept the monster motor. The block and heads shared a dry deck, with separate cooling circuits for each. Not only did this make it bulletproof, but it was also an innovation adopted by many other production cars in later years. This masterpiece was topped by a 735 CFM Holley carburetor to keep it drivable on the street, and Ford advertised the 429 at only 375 horsepower. Although it made much more, it fooled insurance companies to keep premiums at a reasonable level. Each Boss 429 was an instant collectible and scary fast off the showroom floor. This car was kept in pristine condition since new, and it only has 14,575 miles on the odometer. Swapping the intake and the exhaust with the NASCAR-sanctioned parts allowed it to easily makeover 780 horsepower and 723 lb-ft of torque. Thumper's Auto Detailing did an amazing job of bringing the acrylic enamel paint back to life, so it will be a primetime star of Mecum's Indy Auction. The event was moved back to July 10-18th to keep everyone safe, so we'll see you there! View Listing

By Andrew Nabors – March 12, 2020

Mecum Auctions Unveils Ken Miles' Shelby GT350-R

We have no idea how Dana Mecum and Company find the world's most coveted cars. Following on the successes of the $3.74 Million Bullitt Mustang and the $2.2 Million 1967 Super Snake, Mecum Auctions has unveiled Ken Miles' Shelby GT350-R. Not a tribute or recreation, this is the 1965 Competition car driven by Miles at Green Valley Raceway on Valentine's day of '65. It was the first time a Mustang was entered into a sanctioned race, and Ken took 1st place. Known as Chassis 5R002, it later served to test upgrades while being driven by Bob Bondurant, Chuck Cantwell, Peter Brock, and other Shelby team members. It will be the centerpiece of Dana Mecum's 33rd Annual Spring Classic at Indy. We cover all Mecum events, so stay with us as this story evolves. Learn More About This Historic Mustang " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 13, 2020

See the Original Bullitt Mustang Sell For $3.74 Million a...

Ford fans and Mustang maniacs now have reason to rejoice. If you weren't able to catch the live stream, an original Bullitt Mustang sold for $3.74 million at Mecum Kissimmee. With a documented history back to the streets of San Francisco. This 1968 Mustang Bullitt GT was driven by Steve Mcqueen in the film. We covered this on Friday as it happened, but here it is in case you missed it. Thanks to Dana Mecum and company for years of support, stay with us for all your Mecum news. 2019 Bullitt Mustang Top Speed Run on the Autobahn P.S. The 2020 Bullitt Mustang is one of the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engines of all time, and its a bargain price for 460 horsepower. Browse All Ford Mustang For Sale " width="680"> Related: The Original "Bullitt" Mustang Just Sold

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