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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 Jordan Aquistapace – September 14, 2020

Hublot Celebrates 40th Anniversary With A Classic Fusion ...

Since 1980, Hublot has been defying the odds against traditional watchmaking. The most iconic being the Classic Original that featured a rubber strap paired with a gold case. The celebration of Hublot’s 40th anniversary will pay tribute to the once drastic decision by releasing a special edition Classic Fusion collection. The new addition blends the historic design with modern materials and functionality. The Hublot Classic Fusion 40TH Anniversary is available in yellow gold, satin titanium, and black ceramic. The yellow gold reference will be limited to 100 pieces with the titanium and ceramic limited to 200 each. Each example will be equipped with Hublot’s HUB 1112 self-winding movement that has a power reserve of 42 hours. The skeleton backing of the watch is presented as a limited-edition example with the specific numeric engraved. Sapphire glass will protect the date only dial if submerged at the 100-meter water-resistant depth. The strap is made from a comfortable black rubber with the buckle clasp matching the desired case material. The Hublot Classic Fusion 40th Anniversary is the perfect collector watch that holds a story of the company’s bold and successful decision to be different. Enquire about the new Hublot Classic Fusion 40th Anniversary by clicking the link below. Enquire Now

By Edward Jones – September 14, 2020

Aston Martin Has Just Unveiled an Epic Racing Simulator

Sitting on a couch and playing a racing game is fun and relaxing. But what about the times when you want more from your racing games? For that, there are racing simulator setups and Aston Martin just unveiled quite the epic one. Called the AMR-C01, this new simulator was built through a partnership between the automaker and Curv Racing Simulators. Its design is quite stunning, featuring a seating position that mirrors the Aston Martin Valkyrie, a carbon fiber monocoque, customizable carbon fiber seat and a massive curved screen. Instead of a controller, this simulator has a high-tech setup. The state-of-the-art Formula-style steering wheel is equipped with 9 rotary dials, 12 push buttons, paddle shift, clutch and a full-color LCD display. Connected to this steering wheel is a high-end steering motor that gives off precise feedback to every action you make in your virtual race car. For sound, it features internal speakers, but a Sennheiser headset is also included. So what games will this simulator be able to play? It comes equipped to run Assetto Corsa, but it can also run others sims like iRacing and rFactor2. Handling the programs is a powerful PC that boasts an Intel i7 CPU and Nvidia GTX 2080 GPU. These components are more than enough to play even the most graphic intensive sims out there. If you're interested, you better act quick. Only 150 examples of the AMR-C01 racing simulator will be made, each with a base price of around $74,000. The first deliveries are expected to happen in Q4 2020. For more information, be sure to visit CURVRS.com.

By Edward Jones – September 10, 2020

See the Ulysse Nardin Dual Time's Updated Look for 2020

Just after the unveiling of the incredible Sparkling Blast, Ulysse Nardin is back with something that's a bit more understated. Their Dual Time models have just received a new and updated look that can be defined as both sporty and classic. Like the previous generations of the Dual Time, the watch's special features can be found at the 2, 6 and 9 o'clock. At the 2 o'clock is the date, 6 o'clock is the seconds hand and 9 o'clock dual-time display that can be adjusted via the pushers. For its new design, Ulysse Nardin slimmed up and stretched out the roman numerals at the 12, 3, 6 and 9 o'clock. In the center of the dial is a rectangle design that falls in line with their most recent designs. There are three different variants available: blue and stainless steel, black and stainless steel, and blue and 18ct rose gold. Each can come with either a sporty rubber strap with perforations or an alligator strap. The stainless steel models have a price of $8,300 while the rose gold model costs $22,800. You can learn more by clicking the button below. Visit Ulysse-Nardin.com

Bentley racing driver Seb Morris models the Bentley Rucksack - 1

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 09, 2020

The New Bentley Motorsports Collection

Bentley Motorsport can be defined as a perfect balance between style and performance, which directly relates to their newest lifestyle collection. The team at Bentley has brought the bags and accessories home from the track, allowing individuals to get the same gear as the drivers. The newest Bentley Motorsport Collection features the classic Racing and Living Green, just as they are used on the GT-3 race cars. Also found on pieces in the new release other than the Bentley badge and logo, is the #BringTheThunder hashtag. An assortment of diverse sized bags of been designed using premium materials that cater to any occasion. Whether it be a trip to the gym, a quick track day, or a race weekend, Bentley Motorsport’s will help you pack. During any race, it’s a necessity to keep hydrated which is why Bentley has released vacuum insulated water bottle. For the kids who grow up in the world of motorsports, Ear Defenders have been added to the collection in a vibrant Living Green with Bentley logos. An umbrella has been designed for the not so perfect days in livery colors sporting the GT-3 vehicle silhouette. The small accessories of the Bentley Motorsport collection are created to dress up the car keys, even if they do not belong to a Continental GT. This collection is the best way to stay in style while supporting the Bentley Motorsport Team. The new release is available on Bentley Motors website, click below for more information. Shop Now

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By Edward Jones – September 09, 2020

Xbox Series X and S Price and Release Date Revealed

A lot has happened recently in the world of gaming, more specifically on the Microsoft side. After the new Xbox Series S was leaked, Microsoft has gone ahead and revealed the system in its entirety. This next-gen console comes into the world as a digital-only console, meaning there's no disc-tray to be found. Seeing as most gamers are opting for digital downloads, this shouldn't be a problem for many. While it may use the same custom NVMe SSD storage, visual tech and Spatial Sound audio systems like the Xbox Series X, there are some cutbacks made. It runs on a CPU that's similar to the Xbox Series X, but this pint-sized console will support 1440p at up to 120 fps. The Series X, on the other hand, is capable of displaying its games at 4K. Also, storage for the Series S is held at 512 GB instead of 1TB. Expansion ports do allow for this 512 GB of storage to be upgraded via Seagate Storage Expansions Cards. " width="680"> So, how much will it cost you to upgrade to the next generation of Xbox consoles? We finally have that answer. The Xbox Series S will come with a price tag of $299 while the Series X will cost $499. What's more, we've now learned that these consoles will be launching on November 10, 2020. Launching both of these consoles was a great move by Xbox as it gives buyers options. Do you have a big 4K TV you want to game on? Are you planning on purchasing a 4K TV? Do you want the best of the best? Grab a Series X. Are you limited in space? Only worried about frames-per-second? Don't bother with 4K TVs? Think discs are so last-generation? Grab a Series S. Pre-orders for these consols start on September 22. And if it couldn't get any better, Xbox has also just announced that EA Play will be coming to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate this Holiday season at no additional cost. That means you'll gain immediate access to a massive library of games that include the likes of Need For Speed Heat, Fifa 20, Madden 20, Burnout Paradise, Battlefield V and more. That's on top of the game you get from Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. That's a sweet deal. Visit Xbox.com " width="680">

By Edward Jones – September 09, 2020

New Lamborghini Edition Bike Announced by Cervélo

Cervélo has just announced the new R5 Automobili Lamborghini Edition, a very limited street bike that would fit perfectly in a garage next to an Aventador SVJ. This new bike's livery was inspired by the Aventador SVJ that set a new Nurburgring Nordschleife record in 2018. Along with the livery, this bike includes Italian-made components that include a Campagnolo Super Record EPS mechanical assembly, Campagnolo Bora One wheels, Deda Elementi stem, Vittoria Corsa Pro tires and Fizik Aliante saddle. Only 63 examples of the Cervélo R5 Automobili Lamborghini Edition will be created, each with a retail price of $18,000. You can order one for yourself by visiting official resellers and dealers. Visit Cervelo.com

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 08, 2020

The New Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Self Winding Flying To...

Audemars Piguet has announced the release of an innovative take on a classic. The Swiss luxury timepiece manufacturer is crafting the Code 11.59 model as a Self Winding Flying Tourbillion Chronograph. It is the first time the company has fitted a classic style with the technology of a tourbillion and a state of the art flyback chronograph. The complex example by Audemars Piguet will be limited to 50 pieces. The 41mm case is made from 18-carat white gold and houses the self-winding cailbre 2952 that holds a power reserve of 65 hours. Audemars Piguet has designed the open-worked dial using dark blue with paint matched 18-carat white gold hands. The functions include the flying tourbillion, flyback chronograph, hours, and minutes showcased underneath the double glare-proofed sapphire crystal. The limited-edition Code 11.59 is water-resistant up to 30 meters. The strap is crafted from a hand-stitched blue alligator to match the inner dial with the infamous Audemars Piguet folding clasp done in 18-carat white gold. This timepiece by Audemars Piguet is bridging the gap between classic style and modern luxuries. For more information on the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Self Winding, Flying Tourbillion Chronograph, click the link below. Learn More

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 08, 2020

The New Richard Mille RM 72-01

Richard Mille continues to play a lead role in the luxury watch industry. The infamous design and attention to detail make it one of the most desirable timepieces on the market. Richard Mille has just released a new model labeled the RM 72-01, created as a lifestyle automatic chronograph. The case is a brushed titanium finish and available in both silver with a white rubber strap and gold with a black rubber strap. Complimenting the color choice is the crown, designed using the same material as the strap. The new RM 72-01 features Richard Mille’s in-house CRMC1 calibre design that drives the seconds, minutes and hours chronograph functions with a 50-hour power reserve. The skeleton backplate allows for a glimpse at the inner workings of Richard Mille’s newest addition, highlighting the patented Flyback system that ensures the most efficiently accurate way to keep time. Richard Mille continues to stay up to date with the latest technology and innovative functions embed into their timepieces. For more information on the Richard Mille RM 72-01 click the link below. Learn More Source: Richard Mille

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 04, 2020

Modernica x Good Smile Racing USA Chair Collaboration

As automobiles and racing heritage become more popular and viewed as a true art form, we are seeing more entries into new markets that complement their visual aspects. Modernica, a fine hand-crafted furniture manufacturer has announced that they will be using Japanese racing culture as the inspiration for their newest release. The team over at Good Smile Racing USA is responsible for providing inspiration in the form of a Mercedes-Benz AMG GT-3 racecar. More specifically, the vehicle’s vibrant race livery that was displayed during its championship win at the 2017 Super GT 300. The AMG has been featured with the automotive team at Race Service, making appearances at their headquarters. The collaboration will be featured on Modernica’s Side Shell Eiffel Chair in two unique versions. A checkered flag-inspired example as well as an overlaid design using Good Smile Racing’s logo, racecar number decals, and gold crowns signifying championship-winning years. The remarkable images of the Good Smile Racing AMG GT-3 and Modernica's construction process of each chair were captured by Kerion Berndt to show the detail behind the project. The chairs will be available on September 7th on Good Smile Racing’s website for the price of $595. For more information on Modernica and Good Smile Racing USA click the links below. Learn More On Modernica Learn More On Good Smile Racing https://vimeo.com/453644483 Source: Modernica.net / Keiron Berndt

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 02, 2020

Porsche Design High OCTN Motorsport Sneakers Revealed

Porsche Design and Puma Motorsports recently released a new shoe that differs from more traditional minimalistic driving footwear. It's the thought of stepping out of the racecar and into the wilderness. The all-new rugged silhouette is called the High OCTN, which refers to a high-octane presence combined with a fully functional aspect. The newly designed mid-top sneaker constructed using a mix of both nylon and leather with added padding for protection. The most noticeable part of the High OCTN is the leather support strap that is secured to the upper portion of the sneaker and latches together using velcro. Thick nylon laces and rubber lace-lets located beneath the ankle straps. The bottoms are inspired by tread patterns from tires and are made from dense rubber to increase traction when off-road. Porsche Design and Puma Motorsports know the capability of using the High OCTN through whatever the weather throws at them, which is why the color-way uses dark earth tones. This style is a new approach from Porsche Design and Puma, one that leads to the possibilities of new unpaved roads. The new Porsche Design High OCTN Motorsport shoe is available for $270 on Puma's website. Shop Now

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