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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 – October 02, 2019

Puma Motorsport Teases Scuderia Ferrari Energy Capsule Co...

Puma Motorsport collaborates with a number of motorsports teams and more. This includes Scuderia Ferrari, BMW M Motorsport, Mercedes AMG Petronas and more. Now, Puma Motorsport is teasing a new collection with one of these teams. On Instagram, a new Puma Motorsport x Scuderia Ferrari Energy capsule collection was teased (see below). In the tease, we see two jackets and a pair of pants. Other items to be included in this collection are unknown, but it drops on October 15, so be sure to check back with us for more info. You can also click the button below to shop Puma Motorsport. shop puma motorsport https://www.instagram.com/p/B3HmYlJD4lK/ Also Check Out: Wheels x Wardrobe: The 992 Driver LEGO R/C Lamborghini Aventador SV Could Be a Reality Omega Introduces New “James Bond” Seamaster Watch

By Edward Jones – September 30, 2019

Wheels x Wardrobe: The 992 Driver

WHEELS x WARDROBE The 992 Driver Driving a Porsche 911 is one of the best automotive experiences out there. In the driver's seat of a 911, you can feel the decades of ingenuity and craftsmanship that has gone into the model. For this week's "Wheels x Wardrobe," we put together the perfect outfit for the driver of a new 911 (992). THE RIDE Porsche 911 Cabriolet (991)ultimate Porsche experience. SEE ALL 2020 911'S FOR SALE THE WATCH PORSCHE DESIGN 1919 GLOBETIMER UTC TITANIUM & BLACKtell time the Porsche way. SHOP ON PORSCHE-DESIGN.COM THE SHADES PORSCHE DESIGN P´8665 SUNGLASSESinspired by the Porsche 911. SHOP ON PORSCHE-DESIGN.COM THE JACKET PORSCHE DESIGN MOTORCROSS LEATHER JACKETinspired by the Porsche Speedster. SHOP ON PORSCHE-DESIGN.COM THE SHIRT TPORSCHE DESIGN CREW NECK TEEperfect all-around crew neck. SHOP ON PORSCHE-DESIGN.COM THE PANTS PORSCHE DESIGN MOTORCROSS DENIMalso inspired by the Porsche Speedster. SHOP ON PORSCHE-DESIGN.COM THE SHOES PUMA x PORSCHE DESIGN SPEEDCAT LUX NUBUCKfeel the pedal. SHOP ON PUMA.COM

By Edward Jones – September 25, 2019

Mercedes-Benz Classic 2020 Calendar Up for Pre-Order

It may be hard to believe but 2019 is coming to a close very soon, meaning it's about time to start looking for a new calendar. Sure, that puppy calendar looks good but a Mercedes-Benz Classic calendar looks better. Mercedes-Benz Classic has announced their 2020 calendar, which is titled: "One year of Classic Dream Cars." Each of the pictures used in the calendars is taken in the "Holy Halls" of the Mercedes-Benz Classic collection, which houses about 1,000 incredible vehicles. Some of the historic cars found in the calendar include the Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II (W 2019), 300 SL "Gullwing" (W 198), the "Uhlenhaut Coupe" (W 196 S) and more. You can check it out and pre-order by clicking here. see all mercedes-benz for sale

By Edward Jones – September 24, 2019

Wheels x Wardrobe: FALL est. 2019

WHEELS x WARDROBE FALL est. 2019 Summer has ended and fall has arrived. Crunchy leaves lay on the ground while the outdoor's thermostat slowly turns cooler. This means perfect weather and the justification for going outdoors more often. For this week's Wheels x Wardrobe, we've put together an ensemble that will keep you prepared, warm and stylish, no matter the environment. THE RIDE LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 (new model not for sale yet)ready for adventure. SEE ALL CLASSIC DEFENDERS FOR SALE THE WATCH RESERVOIR BATTLEFIELD D-DAYa unified symbol of conquest. SHOP ON RESERVOIR-WATCH.COM THE SHADES OAKLEY CLIFDENsee the road ahead. SHOP ON OAKLEY.COM THE JACKET STONE ISLAND DAVID-TC SHELL JACKETprotect yourself from the elements. SHOP ON MRPORTER.COM THE SHIRT rag & bone FIT 2 TOMLINcomfort in fall colors. SHOP ON RAG-BONE.COM THE PANTS CARHARTT WIP AVIATION CARGO TROUSERScomfortable and functional. SHOP ON MRPORTER.COM THE SHOES CLARK'S BERKSHIRE PEAK BOOTStraction and fashion for your feet. SHOP ON CLARKSUSA.COM THE HAT melin DESTINATIONkeep your head warm, even if snow falls. SHOP ON MELINBRAND.COM

By Edward Jones – September 20, 2019

Sony's New 16k Crystal Home Cinema Display Could Cost Ove...

Sony Electronics Inc. is bringing their Crystal LED (CLED) display system into homes with the announcement of home installation. Before the announcement, this system was only available in venues. What does this mean? People can now have experience incredible 16k in sizes up to 790-inches. Yes, that's 63 feet wide and 18 feet tall. If you're interested, let's dig into the prices. First, I should mention that these displays are actually comprised of modules that combine to create the entire display. You can see an example of a 288" display module being built down below. According to TechHive.com, a module of CLED display can cost around $10,000. For a 220-inch display (4K), there are 72 units. That would bring the price up to an estimated $720,000. For the 16K display (790-inches), there are 576 units of the CLED modules. That would be an estimated $5,760,000. Now, this pricing is just an approximate according to TechHive.com's estimated value per module. When Sony drops the actual price, we'll be sure to let you know. You can learn more about Sony's CLED tech here. shop sony tv's Sources: TechHive.com, Sony Electronics Inc. - Featured Image Source: PRNewsfoto/Sony Electronics Inc.

By Edward Jones – September 18, 2019

Nissan Introduces GT-R NISMO-Inspired Gaming Chair

Do you need a little help with your gaming? Maybe your reactions aren't quick enough or you're growing tired of grinding. Whatever it is, a decent gaming chair might help. Okay, it won't help with things like reaction time or your FPS, but it will definitely help ward off fatigue. For that, Nissan has introduced new gaming chairs based on their vehicles. see all nissan gt-r's for sale These three new chairs were designed with comfort and aesthetics in mind. The most notable of these chairs is the Nissan GT-R NISMO-inspired chair. It's constructed out of carbon fiber and aluminum, and it even has a built-in headrest audio system. Will it launch you from 0 to 60 mph like a GT-R? No, but you will look cool and feel comfortable when sitting in it. Nissan also introduced two other gaming chairs based on the LEAF and Armada. Check them all out down below.

By Edward Jones – September 12, 2019

LEGO Technic Land Rover Defender Model

As both a fan of LEGO and cars, I get a little extra excited when I get news of new car LEGO sets. The set is a LEGO Technic Land Rover Defender, based on the new Defender. See Land Rover Defenders For Sale This kit consists of 2,573 pieces and is incredibly intricate. It features a complete four-wheel-drive system complete with three differentials, independent suspension, a winch, and what LEGO is calling their most sophisticated Technic gearbox yet. For the gearhead with a penchant for building, this set is absolutely perfect. You can buy this set now for $199.99 on LEGO.com. Shop on LEGO.com

By Edward Jones – September 05, 2019

Scuderia Ferrari Releasing Limited Edition Monza Shirt

One of the ways Scuderia Ferrari is celebrating their 90's anniversary is through this brand-new exclusive t-shirt. This newly announced t-shirt was made in collaboration with Puma and it called the Monza GP Replica T-shirt. Why? Well, because its a replica of the shirt worn by the Maranello team during the 2019 Italian Grand Prix. See All Ferrari 488 Spiders for Sale Scuderia Ferrari is currently offering this exclusive t-shirt only on their website. Also, it's expected to ship on September 13, 2019, so it's set up as a pre-order as of right now. If you're interested in showing off your Scuderia Ferrari pride, be sure to act quick before this shirt is gone. shop now - $70 Related Video: " width="680">

By Edward Jones – September 04, 2019

McIntosh Introduces New C53 Preamplifier

A serious audio system wouldn't be complete with a good preamplifier. Today, we're bringing you something more than just a "good preamp." The new McIntosh C53 is a two-channel solid-state preamplifier that will take your audio system to the next level. Check Out all Porsche 911 GT2 RS for Sale This new preamplifier from famed audio master McIntosh is the first to utilize their new DA2 Digital Audio Module with an HDMI input and DSD512 support. It also features an 8-band analog equalizer and 16 inputs (9 analog and 7 digital). For more information on this fine piece of audio technology, be sure to click the button below. shop now

By Edward Jones – August 13, 2019

New Puma Motorsport Shoes: Scuderia Ferrari, BMW M and Re...

Looking for a new pair of sneakers that show off your love for racing? You're in luck. Puma has a fantastic selection of motorsport shoes that include the likes of Scuderia Ferrari, BMW M Motorsport and Red Bull Racing. And now, they have released a new trio of their HYBRID running shoes that you need to check out. First, there are the Scuderia Ferrari shoes that have a white and blue colorway with a big Scuderia shield on the outside of them. shop now Then, there are the BMW M Motorsport shoes which has a white and gray/black colorway. On the outside sides of the shoes is a tasteful "M" design that any motorsport fan would recognize. shop now Lastly, there are the Red Bull Racing Speed HYBRID shoes. The well-known Red BUll colorway is found across the shoes, as well as the famous "Gives You Wings" motif on the outer sides. shop now

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