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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Andrew Nabors – July 06, 2020

Ford Bronco Lineup Teased Along With Reveal Date

Anticipation for the new Ford Bronco is growing with each passing day. Last week we learned that the return of the historic SUV will be simulcast by Disney across ABC, ESPN, National Geographic, and Hulu at 8 pm (Eastern) on July 13th. Immediately after, fans can reserve theirs for $100 each at Ford.com. Today's press release confirms the trifecta we've been assuming. Best Ford Mustangs Of All Time The Bronco lineup will feature a 2-door model inspired by the original series, a 4-door version to rival the Wrangler, and the Bronco Sport will be a 4WD family crossover. This will allow the Bronco to appeal to a wider audience than ever before, and it will allow the aftermarket to unleash a herd of custom Broncos, hopefully in time for SEMA. Stay with us for all your Bronco news and click the button below to find a restored classic example. Browse Ford Bronco For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 26, 2020

All-New 2021 Ford F-150 Offers Hybrid Power and Efficiency

Usually, it doesn't make sense to change your best-selling model. Ford trucks are the backbone of their company, and the F-150 alone could be considered one of the world's largest automakers. Therefore, engineers and stylists in Dearborn have delivered the world's first full-hybrid pickup. A new aluminum body still rides on a frame of high-strength steel, but those aspects are all that is shared with last year's lineup. Using lessons learned in the Raptor and at LeMans, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost is now PowerBoost. This optional system combines an electric motor/generator inside the 10-speed automatic transmission. It allows the V6 to act as a generator, with options for 2.4 kW or 7.2 kW. Several 120v plugs in the bed offer 20 amps to recharge tools, or keep your electric bikes ready for another adventure. The real shocker is a 240-volt plug rated at 30 amps. That is more than enough to power 28 refrigerators if you want the ultimate tailgate party. Their real goal was to allow one truck to power an entire Jobsite. Best Ford Mustangs Of All Time Without anything plugged in, the hybrid system offers 12,000 lbs of towing or a range of 700 miles on one tank of gas. Such efficiency doesn't mean skimping on luxury. A 12" center screen is standard on XLT models, while the XL offers an 8" version. Another option is an Interior Work Surface that is ideal for signing documents, looking at blueprints, or providing a stable platform for a 15" laptop. When you are done, it disappears into the center console without sacrificing storage between the seats. Speaking of those seats, the Max Recline option allows them to fold flat, nearly to 180 degrees. Because the cab is triple-sealed, you can sleep in comfort. The hybrid battery also powers the starter motor, water pump, and the A/C compressor. This allows climate control with the engine off, another innovation that the industry couldn't have foreseen. Higher trim levels allow the driver to turn off individual sections of ambient lighting, or black out the cab entirely. Even small details like this, along with all the power and SYNC 4 connectivity can be controlled from your phone. As with the previous generation, the 3.5 will probably be the most popular engine choice, but the press release also introduces a new naturally aspirated 3.3-liter Flex-Fuel and a 3.0-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel. The 2.7-liter remains the base engine, and the Coyote 5-liter is also now E85-capable. Last but not least, the hybrid 3.5 can be ordered with 4WD and locking differentials. Our dealers have all the info, so click the link below for all the details. Browse Ford F-150 For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – June 18, 2020

Gateway Bronco Expands to Classic Ford Trucks

What began as a labor of love has expanded into full-scale vehicle production. Seth Burgett and his team started Gateway to be an industry leader in first-generation Broncos. Attention to detail and quality builds caught the eye of Ford executives, who asked what else they might be capable of. That question will be answered this fall, as Gateway Bronco will begin deliveries of 1967-72 Ford trucks with truck tonneau covers included. Their goal is to take neglected F-100, F-150, and F-250 trucks completely apart and start over with new steel. Using NOS parts along with a host of proprietary upgrades, it will keep C10 fans awake at night. Ford will be supplying a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 along with the Raptor's 10-speed automatic. Other standard equipment includes push-button 4WD, active exhaust, powder-coated chassis, Bison Leather, and a bed made of restored barn wood. If you need more, it will be the first Ford authorized use of the new 7.3-liter OHV gas V8. Topped by a Harrop supercharger, you will have 700 horsepower in any situation. Click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all your Gateway Bronco updates. Learn More " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – June 15, 2020

Ford Mustang Mach-E Offers High Voltage Excitement

If Elon can learn anything from Elvis, perhaps it is lonely at the top. Ford has recently committed to a partnership with old friends at Volkswagen to share EV development. Not only will they share ideas and strategies, but production costs will be amortized by a renewing of ties between Dearborn and Deutschland. Ford will reconnect with American workers at VW's Chattanooga plant, and buyers of the Ford Mustang Mach-E will receive high voltage excitement. In a press release earlier today, we learned that new Mach-E owners will receive 250 kilowatt-hours of complimentary charging at Electrify America locations. Roughly the equivalent of five full charges, using this credit to top off your Mach-E could last a few months at least. Another first is Ford's charging box. The 240-volt home charger will be offered ahead of debut. This will allow owners to have their garages ready for the new Mustang. Only $799, it is available from any dealer and easy to install. Stay with us for all your Mustang Mach-E news. " width="680">

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 – June 10, 2020

2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Teased in Cyber Orange

Crossovers provide the perfect blend of SUV along with the practicality of a minivan. What's more, their shape is very conducive to battery power. Although Elon beat everyone to the market, Ford and GM are pouring millions into the future of American commuting. When Ford first tested an electric crossover, the performance and handling proved worthy of the Mustang name. That is why we are happy to see that the 2021 Mustang Mach-E GT has been teased in Cyber Orange. A press release this morning outlines that this new brilliant finish will be joined by Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, Grabber Blue, Shadow Black, Iconic Silver and Space White on the upper-end GT models. Deliveries are slated to begin at the end of the year, so stay with us for all your Mustang news. Browse Mustang GT For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – June 04, 2020

Ken Block Buys Vintage Mustang Convertible For New Project

Transforming rubber into smoke requires a budget for tires along with a proper car. Because the Ford Fox chassis was based around the indestructible 8.8" differential. With a proven drivetrain, their achilles heel was rust and neglect. Now that prices for the early 90's cars have bottomed out, Ken Block found a mint-condition Mustang GT convertible with nitrous oxide and a Cobra top end. Despite cosmetic imperfections it will be a perfect Hoonigan drift machine. Stay with us for coverage of this build along with all your Hoonigan news. Browse Mustang GT For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – May 28, 2020

Watch Ken Block Drift an F-450 Dually!

Now that Hoonigan has escaped from lockdown, it appears that Ken Block and his team are back in action. Their goal was to shakedown the latest iteration of his MK2 drift car, but the axles decided to leave the party. So what do you do when your race car breaks? Unleash your skills on the massive Ford F-450 dually. Travis Pastrana Takes Over Gymkhana 2020 for Ken Block It offers 450 horsepower and a whopping 935 lb-ft of torque. Plenty enough to get four 10-ply tires up in smoke. While the truck remains stock in order to meet emissions laws, it would be nice to hear more from the exhaust. We don't recommend drifting something this massive without years of experience, and never on public streets. Stay with us for all your Hoonigan action, and find your new Ford by clicking the button below. Find Your F-450 Here! " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – May 19, 2020

Tour Jack Roush's Incredible Collection

Calling all Ford fans and Mustang maniacs! Roush Performance has granted access to the Petersen Museum, who shared this rare tour of Jack Roush's incredible collection. Needing a tour guide with knowledge of each car, Jack Roush Jr. recounts significant events and races that made their brand world-renowned. Top 50 Exotic Cars & Supercars Of All Time Never satisfied with performance or efficiency, it is easy to understand their intentions when driving any new Roush F-150 for sale. From the Stage III Mustang to the Roush Super Duty F-350, Cactus Jack builds the fastest Fords in every racing series. The late Dale Earnhardt Sr. gave him that nickname because "He is prickly". Coming from the Intimidator, that is a sincere compliment. Our authorized Roush dealers have great incentives, so click the link below to find one near you. Browse Roush Mustang For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – May 18, 2020

New Ford Ranger Thunder Announced for UK

Friends over in the United Kingdom, you have a treat coming your way. The new Ford Ranger Thunder has been announced for the UK, bringing both style and power to Europe's best selling truck. Only 1,400 examples will be produced, so you'll have to act quick if you're interested. So, what IS the Ranger Thunder? It's based on the Ranger Wildtrak series but it has some serious hauling capacity and a very aggressive design. For power, it uses the bi-turbo 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel engine that pushes out 210 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque. Mated to this engine is Ford's 10-speed automatic transmission as standard. As mentioned before, it's also a very mean looking truck as well. It comes in a Sea Grey finish with a red highlights, 18-inch black alloy wheels, LED headlights, Ebony Black accents, and a Ebony leather seats with "Thunder" red embroidery. If you're interested, it's only in the U.K. and it has a price tag of £32,965. In the meantime, in North America, you can check out the mean Raptors we have for sale by clicking the button below. See All Raptors for Sale

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