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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 – November 06, 2020

How To Buy The Period Correct Fiberglass Plate Frame

Inside the Period Correct collection, one can find an array of clothing and accessories that are inspired by the heritage of early automotive racing. The company recently released a lightweight fiberglass plate frame for enthusiasts to add to their vehicles. The new accessory reflects the weight savings technology that went into the design and construction of early motorsports racing parts. The Period Correct Fiberglass Plate Frame is the most updated version of the best-selling traditional frame. Each unit is hand made at the headquarters of Period Correct, and when finished, weighs only 3 ounces. It's a great way to offer a unique touch to any vehicle that supports the meaning behind Period Correct. When: Available Now Where: Period Correct Website Price: $90 Source: Period Correct Instagram

By Edward Jones – November 05, 2020

Porsche Design Announces New and Stylish Soundbar

Porsche Design has just announced their new PDB70 Soundbar on Instagram and it looks downright stylish. With flat surfaces and modern design, it looks to be a perfect addition to any entertainment system. What's really enjoyable about this soundbar is the display for the controls and settings that shine through what looks to be a cloth-like covering. This design has been seen before in other items like the fourth generation Amazon Echo Dot and I personally love it. As for the specifics of this new soundbar, they're not known but we will surely learn more soon. In the meantime, you can also check out the other incredible speakers Porsche Design has for sale that are modeled after a 911's exhaust. Click the button below to see them for yourself. Update: The soundbar is now available. Click the button below to shop for it yourself. Visit Porsche-Design.com

By Edward Jones – November 05, 2020

New DJI Mini 2 Revealed With 4K Video and 31-Minute Fligh...

DJI is back with yet another groundbreaking drone for consumers to enjoy. The new DJI Mini 2 is the latest from the company and it packs a lot of features in a tiny package. Weighing in at less than 249 grams, this new drone is incredibly lightweight and is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. But within this Mini 2's small package are an incredible list of features and abilities. The most exciting of these has to be the ability to shoot videos in 4K and does so smoothly with a 3-Axis gimbal and the ability to withstand winds up to 18-23 mph. If the shot you're looking for is taking a while, don't worry because the Mini 2 now has a 31-minute max flight time. This is yet another awesome drone from DJI and we can't wait to see how it performs. Click the button below to shop the drone for yourself. It comes with a low starting price of just $449 for the DJI Mini 2 while the DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo (a great deal) comes in at $599. Shop On DJI.com

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 05, 2020

Piloti Releases A New Racing Red Avenue Sneaker

If you are looking for a shoe that embraces the qualities of fine Italian leather and useable both on or off the racetrack, then Piloti is the brand for you. The company holds strong ties to the automotive racing world, gearing towards providing drivers with footwear needed to take on some of the world’s toughest tracks. The Avenue collection features a new Racing Red colorway to the low-cut minimal silhouette. The upper is made from top-grain Italian leather with a breathable anti-microbial lining. The outsole is styled as a tire track pattern that embraces the automotive inspiration behind it, providing traction when needed in any weather conditions. The Piloti Avenue sneaker in Racing Red is currently available for $180, as well as an array of other color options. Shop the newest sneaker release from Piloti by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 05, 2020

How To Buy The Bang & Olufsen 95th Anniversary Golden Col...

Bang and Olufsen just announced that the company is celebrating its 95th anniversary with a luxury collection featuring some of their premium audio products. Recently, we have seen Bang and Olufsen commemorate the past with a 1970s Beogram 4000C Turntable restoration project. The new Golden Collection is made using premium materials such as golden-hued aluminum, earth-toned textiles, genuine lambskin, solid oak, and Carrara marble. Bang and Olufsen have added nine products to the collection for personal on the go and in-home entertainment. The price range for the Bang and Olufsen ranges from $350 to $85,000. Each piece represents the pinnacle of design and technology for any audio listening experience. When: November 17th, 2020 Where: Bang & Olufsen Website Price: $350 to $85,000

By Edward Jones – November 05, 2020

Sit Down and Race With the Outrun Seated Arcade Cabinet

One thing about arcade cabinets is that you have to stand to use them. After a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is stand to play your video games. That's why it's actually awesome that Arcade1Up has released the new Outrun cabinet. Why? Because you have to sit down to use it. Granted, it would be difficult to play a racing arcade cabinet while standing. The cabinet includes a standalone seat that puts the "driver" in a perfect position to access the pedals and steering wheel. The games to choose from include Outrun, Turbo Outrun, Outrunner and Power Drift. You can purchase this new cabinet from Arcade1Up.com for $499.99. They also have another sit-down cabinet for sale, which is actually a Star Wars cabinet. Visit Arcade1Up.com

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 05, 2020

Adidas Originals Drops Fall/Winter 2020 Eyewear Collection

Adidas Original continues to play a key role in the athletic sportswear industry since the brand began in 1972. The inspiration behind the brand is to celebrate the heritage as both a sport and lifestyle using premium materials and designs. Adidas Originals has released the Fall/Winter 2020 Eyewear Collection featuring unique styles for both men and women. Inside the new collection are an array of style options that include different lens shapes and colors. The design team at Adidas Original took characters from sport and fashion to create the perfect blend, allowing for the styles to be, dressed up or down. The Fall/Winter Eyewear Collection by Adidas is currently available through Nordstrom’s website, with the Adidas’ website launching at the end of the month. Shop all the Adidas Originals sunglass styles by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 04, 2020

PUMA Motorsport x Mercedes-AMG Petronas LQDCELL Sneaker H...

Puma Motorsport and Mercedes-AMG Petronas have collaborated on an array of sneaker silhouettes that are able for both on and off-track use. The Puma LQDCELL is one of the shoes best described as an all-around comfortable daily wear. The mesh upper includes synthetic metallic overlays combined with various Mercedes-AMG Petronas branding. The midsole is made from thick cushioning to help ensure the most performance from the high-tech trainers. Puma Motorsport fitted the LQDCELL with a rubber outsole that provides durable traction and grip. A new colorway called Lu-Lu Purple is available for $110, while the Smoke Pearl version is on sale for $74.99. Puma Motorsport and Mercedes-AMG Petronas continue to bridge the gap between everyday life and the exciting world of racing. Shop the Puma Motorsport x Mercedes-AMG Petronas LQDCELL sneakers by clicking the link below. Shop Now

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By Edward Jones – November 04, 2020

New Davidoff Masterpiece Series II Cigars Come in a Spect...

Cigar enthusiasts know that in order to preserve their collection, they need a good humidor. With the new Davidoff Masterpiece Series II Humidor, you not only get an incredible collection of cigars but also one of the most amazing desktop humidors we've seen. Designed by Rose Saneuil, the humidor is limited to just 12 examples. The design of the humidor was inspired by sunsets and evaporating smoke, both of which are combined in a stunning manner. In order to create the visual, Saneuil used her expertise in the art of marquetry and placed individual pieces of different materials on the humidor. Inside the humidor are 50 unique Davidoff Masterpiece Series II cigars but it has the capacity to hold around 190-250 cigars in total. You can learn more by clicking the button below. Visit Davidoff.com Source: Davidoff.com

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 04, 2020

Bugatti x AUDES Release A New Lifestyle Collection

Since the celebration of the 110th anniversary of Bugatti, the hypercar manufacturer has been at work developing new projects. We recently saw the release of the incredibly unique Bugatti Bolide, a track-focused vehicle capable of 311+ miles per hour. The company just announced the release of its new lifestyle collection, a clothing line dedicated to expressing the identity and heritage of the Bugatti brand. The 50-piece collection was designed and manufactured as part of a partnership with AUDES Group, the official licensee for Bugatti’s apparel and accessories. Clothing options for the new release are made from high-tech fabrics to enhance performance while providing an ergonomic fit. Among the accessories, there are power banks, key chains, a backpack, small leather goods, mugs, notebook bags, credit card holders, a water bottle, and more. All the items included in the collection pull inspiration from some of Bugatti’s greatest creations, such as the Chiron, Divo, La Voiture Noir, Chiron Super Sport 300+, Centodieci, and Bolide. The new collection from Bugatti is currently available and found by clicking the link below. Shop Now

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