Gear

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 – December 16, 2015

CarPro's CQuartz Finest: Paint Protection for Years

CarPro's CQuartz Finest is an evolution in nano-tech ceramic paint protection. In the development process for this product, the finest, high-strength, condensed nano particles with superior cross-linking abilities were designed. They utilized a new proprietary nano material to create an extremely tough 3D structure that provides a durable, super high gloss coating which will protect paint and other automotive surfaces from UVA and UVB rays, dirt, brake dust, iron contaminants, bugs, bird droppings, and more for years after application.CarPro takes tremendous pride in the amount of research and development they put into their incredible CQuartz Finest Ceramic Coating. During the application process of a Finest installer, CarPro painstakingly reviews each installer individually, ensuring they are capable of providing the highest level of quality, passion and professionalism. In North America only 1 out of every 200 applicants is approved as a Finest installer.CQuartz Finest is the exclusive flagship ceramic coating offered by CarPro. They are the pioneers of ceramic coatings and nano-tech car care products in the western world, and continue to be a leader in the innovation and improvement of this technology around the world.The entire CarPro line was designed with CQuartz in mind and CarPro is the only brand on the planet which makes a full line of high-performance maintenance products specifically designed for peak performance, simplicity, and with the end user in mind. They ensure that you will get the most out of your automotive investment.Learn MoreGallery

By Edward Jones – December 10, 2015

Mitchell Pool Tables: Exclusive Billiard Designs

Nearly half a century ago, Ed Mitchell began his career in the billiard industry. In 1979, he established Mitchell Custom Tables Inc. From the beginning, his pool tables stood out for their consistently superb workmanship, stunning design and superior playability.Over time, Ed’s unwavering commitment to quality attracted an elite group of dedicated craftsmen who, together with Ed’s son Joe, contribute over 100 years of hands-on pool table experience.Mitchell tables use only the finest hardwoods such as cherry, mahogany, walnut and tiger maple, to name a few. Materials iare meticulously hand selected for each pool table, in most cases from the same tree to ensure perfectly matched grain and color. All of the wood used are from sustainable sources. All of the finishes are hand rubbed, giving each piece protection and an amazing depth and patina.Wood is only a part of the story, as Mitchell’s unique designs also incorporate high-grade materials like stainless steel, aluminum and tempered glass.At Mitchell Exclusive Billiard Designs, they are passionate about making beautiful, functional, handmade billiard tables for their clients. They aim to create pool tables of their customer's dreams, whether they are building a new home, an interior design or architect.Their tables are used and enjoyed, becoming cherished family heirlooms that are passed down for generations and backed by a complete warranty on workmanship and materials.To learn more, visit MitchellEBD.com, or click the button below.Learn More Gallery Sponsored by duPont REGISTRY

By Edward Jones – December 09, 2015

Gulf Livery Ball Chair is Fashionable Automotive Furniture

Racing & Emotion’s motorsports-inspired chairs are the ultimate functional artwork for the automobile lover who has everything. Based on the famous ball chair, each R&E design is a tribute to the most iconic racing cars in motorsport history.Their officially licensed Gulf and Shelby-liveried chairs will soon be joined by a Shell design for connoisseurs of vintage racing memorabilia who want to set off their home, office, or garage with the perfect conversation piece.To see the price and more automotive furniture, be sure to click the button below.Buy Now Sponsored by Superstrada Design duPont REGISTRY

By Christina Avila – December 02, 2015

Sovaro: The Cooler, Perfected With Luxury

What does each of the world’s most impressive exotic cars have in common? They were designed with a single principle in mind: pairing sleek, sophisticated style with durable performance ability.Sovaro took this same principle and applied it to an everyday product that’s essential to any social gathering – the cooler. A Sovaro is no ordinary cooler, though.One part aesthetic and one part purpose, Sovaro coolers are crafted from some of the highest quality materials around the world, including the cooler’s secret weapon, cork. Harvested from the Cork Oak trees in balmy Portugal, the cork is used as a natural and highly effective insulator. The cork bark itself doesn't even burn until 1,000 degrees. That means you don’t need to worry about that private label champagne being anything less than perfectly chilled.Speaking of bottles, picture this. You and your friends are yachting in the crystal clear waters of Miami Beach. You head over to open another bottle of everyone’s favorite wine but it’s empty. And just like that, your Sunday in the sun hits a plateau. Sovaro’s solution was designing coolers that fit bottles upright, thanks to a 13.5-inch interior height.The 30 QT cooler is ideal for a double date with room for up to eight standing bottles. If you have a food or garnish that pairs with the bottles, you'll have room for those, as well as a few bottles. The 45 QT is designed for a bit larger gatherings, like a housewarming for your new sky rise penthouse or condo on the beach. When throwing a party, nothing but the 70 QT size will do, accommodating up to 18 standing bottles for a fully stocked - and constantly cool – bar supply.Sovaro coolers are available in various color schemes, including black with chrome or silver hardware, white with silver or gold hardware and more. All coolers and accessories can be purchased online at www.sovaro.com Shop Now Gallery Sponsored by: Used Exotic Cars

By Edward Jones – November 19, 2015

Giant Superplexus 3D Labyrinth Game Wows at duPont REGIST...

The latest creative endeavor from McGinnis Artistry is the Superplexus. This interactive art is by far is the most complex version to date and is now available only in a limited number for private purchase. The Superplexus has been exhibited in many venues worldwide and offered as commissioned art pieces for several museums and art galleries. Michael McGinnis, creator of the Superplexus launched his private sale at the duPont REGISTRY Live Winter Park Concours d'Elegance Aeroport Reception on November 13.McGinnis has had success as a toy maker and creator of the "Game of Year" spans a journey of over three decades. When first approached to create a giant version, McGinnis responded, “Why not tackle my dream of creating a super-complex, human-scale interactive piece?"He added, “These Giant Superplexuses are complex works of interactive art, and I am very fortunate to have them as my most personal creative outlet. This art form stretches my mind while providing joy to others. Although I am adept at other media and concepts, no other pursuit holds such an iconic place in my heart. Here I feel as though I am truly contributing to the language of the world.”This masterpiece of interactive art will take center stage in your home and offer hours of entertainment value for years to come. Each is a unique and overly complex design. Be sure to take a closer look at the photos in the gallery below from the duPont REGISTRY Live event and learn more about the history of Superplexus at superplexus.com.Learn More Gallery Sponsored by: duPont REGISTRY Sports Cars

By Andrew Nabors – August 26, 2015

Presidential Series from Liberty Safe: Protect Your Inves...

Firearms and cars are both major investments, and they both need to be stored in a proper manner. If you don’t like the idea of leaving your Carrera GT in long-term parking, you probably won’t sleep safely with your firearm unlocked. If you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing your weapons and valuables are secure, look no further than the Presidential Series from Liberty Safe. Luxurious, Inside-OutSpin the 24k gold wheel and inside you will find room for up to 39 long guns and a drawer for jewelry. The patented 4-in-1 Flex™ interior is modular and can adapt to your changing collection. If anyone wants to get their hands on it, they will have to deal with the 26 locking bolts that are each 1.5” thick. The locking mechanism is completely gear driven, and hidden behind seven gauge steel.Solid Protection All-AroundConventional metallurgy isn’t up to their standards, so they build the Presidential from the same hardplate that ball bearings are made of. Drilling it is a waste of time, because this safe will have fun while smoking even the toughest carbide bits. If that’s not enough, SAFELERT monitoring is included for free. Using built-in WiFi, the safe is able to send you emails or texts 24/7. Along with a sensitive tamper monitor, owners are able to set limit points for temperature and humidity.If you want the best in fire protection, they are rated to comfortably handle 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit for two and a half hours. That is possible thanks to a six inch thick door and multiple layers of 5/8” fireboard. A heat activated Palusol™ gasket expands and seals the door jamb, keeping out smoke and heat.duPontREGISTRY.comThe strongest safe on the market is also the smartest. When is the last time you received a weekly email from a home appliance? If you are serious about securing your most cherished items, Liberty safes are the top choice in protection. To learn more, click the button below.View Price and InfoGallery Sponsored by:

By Edward Jones – July 16, 2015

Liberty Safe National Magnum: Luxurious Security

Everyone has something that they need to keep safe, whether it's cash, personal documents, firearms or anything, really. To keep these precious items secure, you need a safe that you can trust.Liberty Safe's National Magnum safe Secure StylingThis safe's exterior offers a perfect blend of modern and superior security with Old-West styling. Its hardware is available in black chrome with 11 different finish options, chrome with one finish option or 23k gold with 4 different finish options. Yes, your safe can be as luxurious as the items it protects.Speaking of the items it protects, this safe can hold quite a bit. There are four different models of the National Magnum available for purchase: the Magnum 25, 40, 50 and 56, though the National Magnum 56 is only available in Gray Marble and Silver Velour. These safes hold up to 22, 33, 39 and 56 guns, respectively.But these safes can hold more than just firearms. Each safe has a new premium accessory door panel to accommodate extra valuables on the door, as well provide quick access to handguns. There is also a pull-out jewelry drawer, which makes organizing valuables easy. Protection and SecurityComing with this safe is the best in fire protection. with a 2.5-hour fire rating, as well as serious security that will give you peace of mind. When you purchase the National Magnum safe by Liberty Safe, it comes with a SAFELERT 24/7 Monitoring device for free. It also is a UL™ Certified as a Residential Security Container (RSC) and can withstand prying, drilling, punch and torch attacks. Additionally, it has a gear-drive off-set handle that thieves won't be able to comprehend.More Than A Safe These safes will not only keep your valuables protected with some of best security out there, they will look luxurious and stylish all the while. From its exterior, to its interior, including the protection in between, Liberty Safe's National Magnum safes offer the ultimate protection in your home without compromising your personal style. For more information, be sure to visit LibertySafe.com or click the button below. View Price and Info Gallery Sponsored by:

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe