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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 Edward Jones – March 03, 2021

The New Ford Bronco Was Made To Be Customized

One of the most popular trends in the automotive world right now has to be the custom off-road one. I can't tell you how often I see customized trucks and SUVs cruising around, each of them looking unique in their own right. Ford knows just how popular custom off-road vehicles are and created the new Bronco with that in mind. The result is a model that was made to be customized. Both the two-door and four-door Broncos were built on a modular platform that allows owners to create the off-road SUV of their dreams. This ranges from something as simple as a new grille to a completely custom Bronco. Some of these modifications can be completed in minutes, like taking off the optional modular roof panels or rear quarter windows. In order to tell which components are modular, Ford stamped Bronco logos on the fasteners to indicate them as such. Ford notes that this type of build for the Bronco allows it to be future-proof, allowing the aftermarket community to build upon the model for years to come. That bodes well for owners of Broncos who intend on driving them for years to come. See All Broncos For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – February 24, 2021

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch Unveiled In Texas

Loaded with more luxury than any other SUV, the 2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch has been unveiled in Texas. The "Running W" logo has adorned Ford's flagship trucks for the past two decades. Since 2001 it has represented the best leather, audio, and wood in the industry. In keeping with the latest F-150 King Ranch edition, you will be massaged by Mesa Del Rio leather seats. Those aren't veneers, they are real Sapele wood accents. The 3-liter EcoBoost V6 delivers 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, and you won't hear it thanks to 14 B&O speakers. Other standard equipment includes Adaptive Cruise with Stop & Go, Lane Centering, Evasive Steering, and traffic sign recognition. With a starting price of $52,350, the Explorer King Ranch offers incredible value, and that is why the Explorer is still the best-selling American SUV. Tell us how it compares to the Ford Raptor specs in the comments below and stay with us for all your Ford news. Ford Explorer For Sale Images (C) Ford Motor Company

By Andrew Nabors – February 23, 2021

Ford F-150 Powers House During Texas Blackout

We've been hearing about electric supercars giving back to the grid, but leave it to Dearborn to show us the way. A Ford F-150 powered a house through the Texas blackout in a recent story by Fox News. Texas is truck country, and the F-150 reigns supreme. In order to give buyers more than they could ask for, the Pro-Power onboard system has been a popular option. Available for the 2.7 and 3.5-liter engines, the truck can generate 7,200 kW. The bed has four 120v outlets at 20 amps, and a big 240v rated at 30 amps. Ford has several scenarios from a mobile welding rig to a framing crew at a job site, but Randy Jones used his truck to power the essentials: Coffeemaker, Heater, TV, Fridge & Freezer. The Ford PowerBoost V6 combines an electric motor/generator with the Raptor V6. Not only can it power a house, it sends 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft to the 4WD system. You could offer a charge to stranded electric cars or enjoy incredible mileage in the city. Click the button to find our Ford dealer near you. Ford F-150 For Sale Story (C) FoxBusiness.com Images (C) Ford Motor Company

By Edward Jones – February 15, 2021

First 2021 Ford GT Studio Collection Car Revealed

Last year, Ford announced the new GT Studio Collection series. This new series is bringing a new graphics package to the GT supercar, something that was possible thanks to a collaboration between Ford and Multimatic, the company that produces the vehicle in Canada. Now, we finally get to see the first example of the 2021 Ford GT Studio Collection. This GT has a black exterior that's contrasted by three extremely vivid red stripes. What I really like about these stripes are the two that start behind the headlights and run around the side air intake. Matching the red stripes are the brake calipers, which complete the entire look. This is a great new addition to the Ford GT lineage and I can't wait to see what's next. To learn more about the Ford GT, be sure to check out our 2018 Ford GT Specs, Price, Photos & Review post. See All Ford GTs For Sale Source: Ford

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 Jordan Aquistapace – February 09, 2021

Autodromo Announces The Exclusive Ford GT Owners Edition ...

The Ford GT not only holds significance in the world of automotive history but also in the watch industry. Autodromo continues its automotive-inspired watch collections with inspiration from vehicles like the Ford GT40 from Ken Miles and Lloyd Ruby’s 1966 Daytona 24 Hours victory. As a staple to the Heritage series, Autodromo is proud to unveil the Ford GT Owners Edition Chronograph. The latest release from Autodromo incorporates a perfect blend of past and present design features to best pay tribute to the vehicle and drivers that helped stamp the Ford GT badge into racing history. The Chronograph is styled to reflect the livery of the original GT40 using a white, black, and red color scheme with parts like the bronze wheels incorporated into the matte gold-tone stainless case. A comfortable rubber strap makes for great daily wear, especially if your new Ford GT is taking you to work that day. The Autodromo Ford GT Owners Edition Chronograph is available exclusively to owners of the 2021 Heritage Ford GT through a GT Concierge for $11,500. For more Ford Gear news, Check out Wheels X Wardrobe: Big Game Bound In The 2020 Shelby Super Snake

By Andrew Nabors – February 09, 2021

Ford Unveils Five Accessory Bundles For Bronco Sport

While the 2-door Bronco seems to get the most attention, the 4-door SUV is much more practical. So in order to carry your gear to where the action happens, Ford has unveiled five accessory bundles for the Bronco Sport. Working with the experts at Yakima, they developed packages for: Bike, Water, Snow, Camping and Cargo. Many of the parts are not mutually exclusive, so you can also mix & match them to suit your needs. For me, I would choose the awning and Skyrise roof tent along with the dual bike carrier and all-weather mats. Does this make the Bronco one of the Top 10 American Supercars? Click the button to learn all the details on Bronco accessories. Browse Ford For Sale Images (C) Ford Motor Company

By Andrew Nabors – February 08, 2021

Ford Unveils Bronco 4600 At King Of The Hammers

Ultra4 Racing brings together the world's greatest 4WDs, so Ford has unveiled the Bronco 4600 at King of the Hammers. This annual event saw three new Broncos racing in the 4400 Unlimited class, riding on tube-frame chassis and long-travel suspension. Street-legal Broncos were not left out, as their latest press release highlights the 4600 series. Starting with new Broncos off the assembly line, Ford wants the world to see what their street-legal 2-door and 4-door models are capable of. Starting with the HOSS suspension, they allowed Fox Racing to supply coil-overs along with pneumatic bump stops. Wilwood brakes and 35" BFG tires are bolted to Method Racing beadlocks. Just as iconic, tell us how it compares to the Shelby 427 Cobra price and specs. This is as close to the Bronco R as we will ever get, so click the button to order yours from our dealers. Images (C) Ford Motor Company

By Andrew Nabors – February 03, 2021

2022 Ford Raptor Revealed

For the first time, the 2022 Raptor will arrive with a 5-link rear suspension. Leaf springs are ancient technology, so this is a solid starting point to build the world's most capable truck. Fox Suspension offers their new Live Valve technology. This allows 37" tires to react to any situation, articulating much more than the previous generations. Ford Raptor Price, Specs, Photos & Review We speculated on what would power it, and we're happy to announce a new version of the 3.5-liter V6. Using twin turbos it makes more than 510 lb-ft of torque and 450 horsepower, but Ford says official numbers are coming soon. Other details include a TORSEN 4.10 front differential with an electric rear locker. A true 3" active exhaust makes use of an X-pipe with a "trombone loop" that offers a deep rumble. Perhaps the biggest speculation surrounds the 2023 Raptor R that will arrive next year! 2022 Ford Raptor For Sale Images (C) Ford Motor Company

By Andrew Nabors – February 02, 2021

2022 Ford Raptor Arrives February 3rd

UPDATE: The New Ford Raptor Is Here! Summoning a timeless intro by Metallica, a quick teaser shows us that the 2022 Ford Raptor will arrive on February 3rd. The spot is only 11 seconds, but it gets the point across. Fans and enthusiasts have speculated the inclusion of the Shelby GT500's supercharged heart, but the EcoBoost V6 has proved itself to be worthy by owners and the aftermarket. In a classy move by Ram, they trolled this video on Twitter by asking Ford to "pop the hood". We have had a dozen Raptors in the collection since they debuted in 2010, and our dealers have great incentives on the 2020 models. If you need the soundtrack of a big block, the first generation 6.2-liter trucks are coveted by collectors. Click the button to find yours and stay with us for the reveal! 2022 Raptor For Sale Image and video (C) Ford Motor Company

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