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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 20, 2024

How To Buy: Malbon Golf x Las Vegas Grand Prix's Limited-...

From the golf course to the race track. You don't have to be an avid golfer to know Malbon Golf and its ever-growing collection of apparel and accessories, partnering with other brands to help bridge the gap between golf and other industries. Whether it's the allure of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance or the innovative approach to watchmaking, it seems that Malbon has their hand in almost every growing trend. The golf specialists at Malbon are proud to take its next journey to Sin City in light of Formula 1's upcoming 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix, featuring an exclusive 19-piece collection that aims to style race fans and golfers head-to-tow in automotive-inspired designs. The drop reignites a partnership that first began in 2023 with a takeover of the Vegas Strip, which turned out to be an instant hit among streetwear collectors and enthusiasts. This year, the lineup features jackets, hoodies, long-sleeve shirts, t-shirts, golf gear, and accessories, all co-branded with Formula 1 logos and Malbon's iconic golf ball figure. Keeping up with the theme of Vegas nights and limitless access to casinos and gambling games, Malbon Golf x Formula 1 Las Vegas even dropped two limited-edition poker chip ball markers for spirited competition on the course. As the weekend festivities of the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix start to kick off, make sure to shop the all-new Malbon Golf x Las Vegas Grand Prix by clicking the link below. Shop The Collection Our Top Picks Malbon x Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Felt Letterman Jacket Shop Now Malbon x Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Driver Buckets T-Shirt Shop Now Malbon x Formula 1 Camber Racing Stripe Jacket Shop Now Malbon x Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Suits Golf Bag Shop Now Malbon x Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Poker Chip Medallion Ball Marker Shop Now Source: Malbon Golf

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 22, 2024

How To Buy: The All-New PUMA x Formula 1 Collection

PUMA and Formula 1 are excited to unveil their latest collection, tailored for fans and enthusiasts who live for the thrill of the race. The all-new line perfectly captures the exciting spirit of Formula 1 racing with futuristic graphics, useful detailing, and protective fabrics. Designed in both footwear and apparel, the collection guarantees fans can showcase their passion for motorsport in style. The new Formula 1 Collection is focused on celebrating the dynamic energy that defines F1. Each piece is crafted with fans in mind, offering fuel-inspired designs that can be worn from race day to everyday life. Bold patterns and sleek lines reflect the fast-paced nature of the sport, making this collection more of a tribute to the adrenaline and excitement that Formula 1 represents. Available at selected PUMA stores and online at puma.com, this high-octane collection invites fans to gear up and feel the rush. With its combination of style and functionality, the PUMA x F1 Collection is the perfect way for fans to connect with the sport they love. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of racing history. Shop all PUMA x Formula 1 collections by clicking the link below. Shop All PUMA x Formula 1 Our Top Picks Statement Motorsport Bomber Jacket Shop Now Statement Motorsport Graphic Tee Shop Now Statement Motorsport Graphic Hoodie Shop Now Leadcat 2.0 Slides Shop Now ESS Motorsport Logo Tee Shop Now Source: PUMA

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 17, 2024

How To Buy: Period Correct's New 24H Le Mans Collection

The race of all motorsport races. Le Mans is a legendary name in the motorsport world. Its a 24-hour marathon dripping with history and nostalgia, shaping the legacies of iconic car manufacturers like Ferrari, Porsche, and Audi. Every June, the roar of engines and the cheers of fans echo throughout France, reminding us of the legendary drivers and unforgettable moments that have defined the race. As we celebrate another monumental race and congratulate Ferrari on its second consecutive Le Mans victory, the team at Period Correct is proud to commemorate motorsport's most iconic race with the launch of its new 24H Le Mans Collection. Head-to-toe styles and accessories preserve the earliest years of Le Mans racing with period-correct graphics, logos, and fonts. The collection includes jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and hats. For accessories, the lineup features woven blankets, a tote bag, a suede valet tray, key chains, and ear plugs. Whether you're a forever fan who tunes for every year's race or are finally making the trip to cross Le Mans off your bucket list, celebrate the world's oldest active endurance sports car race with Period Correct's all-new 24H Le Mans Collection. Shop The 24H Le Mans Collection Source: Period Correct

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By Jordan Aquistapace – June 17, 2024

How To Buy: PUMA x Scuderia Ferrari HP's Carlos Sainz Bar...

Celebrate Carlos Sainz with PUMA's Barcelona special edition hat. PUMA and Scuderia Ferrari HP have teamed up to launch the Carlos Sainz Barcelona Special Edition Cap as teams and race fans prep for the upcoming 2024 Aramco Spanish GP at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The exclusive cap pays tribute to Spanish Scuderia Ferrari HP driver Carlos Sainz with a design inspired by his rich heritage and Barcelona's iconic charm. The all-white hat features a chili pepper design, a nod to Sainz's spirited personality, and a signature symbol associated with him. The front of the hat features the Carlos Sainz logo, signifying the strong partnership between PUMA, Scuderia Ferrari HP, and Sainz. With unique design elements reflecting Barcelona's cultural flair, PUMA's new release stands out as a fashionable tribute to both the city and the sport. Perfect for Formula 1 race fans, the PUMA for Scuderia Ferrari Carlos Sainz Barcelona Special Edition Cap is now available. Shop all current PUMA x Scuderia Ferrari HP Collections by clicking the link below. Shop Now Source: PUMA

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By Jordan Aquistapace – June 03, 2024

How To Buy: PUMA x Scuderia Ferrari HP's Hockey Jersey Fo...

Commemorate the 2024 Montreal Grand Prix with a hockey-inspired keepsake! While it historically stands out as the mecca of ice hockey, Canada is also a top stop on the Formula 1 schedule with its legendary Montreal Grand Prix. With thrilling races along the scenic waterfront, it's the perfect mix of high-speed action and stunning views. Coming off a huge first-ever victory at the 2024 Monaco Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc and Scuderia Ferrari HP are looking to go back-to-back with another big win this weekend. PUMA and Scuderia Ferrari HP have teamed up to bring race fans the new Scuderia Ferrari Ice Hockey Jersey to celebrate the Montreal Grand Prix. Launched against the thrilling backdrop of the Canadian Grand Prix, the jersey combines the dynamic energy of motorsport with the rugged spirit of ice hockey. The Scuderia Ferrari Ice Hockey Jersey features the unmistakable Scuderia Ferrari HP logo, signature colors, and sponsors seamlessly combined into the classic hockey jersey silhouette. Whether you're cheering from the stands or hitting the ice, you can now showcase your love for Ferrari in a whole new arena. With this jersey, fans can enjoy stylish, high-performance apparel that reflects the best of both worlds. It's a bold new way to celebrate your love for Ferrari, whether you're at the rink or the racetrack. Shop the all-new Scuderia Ferrari Ice Hockey Jersey and all PUMA x Ferrari Collections by clicking the link below. Shop Now Source: PUMA

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 21, 2024

Pure Electric Honors The Legacy Of Ayrton Senna With A Sp...

With 2024 marking the 30th anniversary of F1 legend Aytron Senna's tragic passing at Imola during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, the motorsport world has continued celebrating the Brazilian driver's life and legacy through commemorative collaborations. Along with a tribute to Aryton at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix that featured all drivers on the grid, Senna's iconic colors have been incorporated into countless mementos to help carry on the historic career of a genuine F1 icon. The team at Pure Electric is proud to honor Aryton Senna with a special edition e-scooter that captures high-performance engineering, pioneering design, power, and precision. Designed in collaboration with the Senna Foundation to resemble Ayrton's iconic race helmet, the Pure x Mclaren Senna Special Edition features a livery inspired by the Brazilian flag. The innovative design allows riders to adopt a natural, forward-facing stance with feet apart, resulting in a more stable and comfortable ride. The Pure e-scooter also features folding handlebars, footpads, and a steering tube, making it 70% slimmer than standard e-scooters. This space-saving design offers seamless integration into your daily life without compromising on performance. The folded dimensions are a compact 54cm (H) x 15cm (W) x 104cm (L), perfect for urban commuters. A bright 150-lumen headlight and rear brake light provide confidence and visibility in all conditions. The improved battery delivers a 25-mile range on a single charge, allowing for longer rides. The upgraded 710w motor makes enhanced hill climbing and powerful, responsive acceleration possible, making the Pure e-scooter a top choice for urban mobility. Celebrate the legacy of McLaren F1 driver Ayrton Senna and pick up your very own Pure E-Scooter Senna Special Edition by clicking the link below. Discover The Pure E-Scooter Senna Special Edition Source: Pure Electric

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By Jordan Aquistapace – May 20, 2024

How To Buy: PUMA x Scuderia Ferrari HP x Charles Leclerc'...

Celebrate Charles Leclerc and Monaco with the PUMA x Scuderia Ferrari special edition cap, combining performance, style, and heritage. The Monaco Grand Prix is considered to be one of the most iconic race circuits in Formula 1. The race is known for its rich history and breathtaking seaside views. From Ayrton Senna to Max Verstappen, this prestigious event is a dream come true for any driver seeking to showcase their skills on its narrow, challenging streets. In collaboration with Scuderia Ferrari HP, PUMA has launched the Monaco Special Edition Hat as a stylish tribute to Formula 1 rising star Charles Leclerc and his Monaco heritage. The exclusive hat celebrates Leclerc's competitive spirit, showcasing the iconic colors of the Monegasque flag with a white and red base, complemented by stripes and detailed accents inspired by Monaco's flag. The hat also features Charles Leclerc's logo, signifying the strong partnership between PUMA, Scuderia Ferrari HP, and the young, talented driver. It appeals to those who admire Leclerc's talent, cherish Monaco's heritage, and wish to show their support for Scuderia Ferrari HP. Whether worn at the racetrack or in everyday life, this cap embodies the relentless pursuit of excellence and the thrill of Formula 1 racing. With its sleek design and symbolic significance, the PUMA x Scuderia Ferrari Monaco Special Edition Cap is a must-have for anyone looking to combine their passion for motorsport with a touch of luxury. Click the link below to shop the all-new PUMA x Scuderia Ferrari HP x Charles Leclerc Monaco Special Edition Hat. Shop PUMA's Charles Leclerc Monaco Special Edition Hat Source: PUMA

By Edward Jones – November 07, 2023

How To Get The AlphaTauri x Gundam RX-78-2 Kit

The Las Vegas GP is just right around the corner and that means the Formula 1 teams are pulling out all of the stops when it comes to promotion. For Scuderia AlphaTauri, one of their special promotions involves the insanely popular Japanese mecha franchise, Gundam. For the AlphaTauri and Gundam collaboration, Bandai Namco has created a very special model kit to celebrate the first Las Vegas GP. “Gundam is a globally recognized and beloved media franchise with passionate fans in every corner of the world. We immediately embraced the Gundam spirit and are delighted to welcome them as a partner of Scuderia AlphaTauri for the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix,” said Fabian Wrabetz, Director of Marketing and Communication at Scuderia AlphaTauri. “This will be a collaboration to remember with multiple on and off-track activations that will push the limits of fan engagement in a fun and exciting way.” The kit in particular is the Perfect Grade Unleashed RX-78-2 but with an exclusive AlphaTauri color scheme and decals. Additionally, there will be special RX-78-2 and Yuki Tsunoda artwork on display in Las Vegas during the grand prix. For the race cars, both Tsunoda and Daniel Ricciardo will have decals of the RX-78-2 Gundam and XVX-016 Gundam Aerial on their headrests and they vie for the podium during the inaugural Las Vegas grand prix. If you'd like to get your hands on this one-of-a-kind kit, unfortunately, it's not for sale. However, there will be Gundam merchandise for sale at the two Gundam Base Pop-Up stores by Elara by Hilton and The Park by MGM. “One of the longest running Sci-Fi franchises in the world, GUNDAM has always been able to connect with fans all around the globe with its featured themes of heroism, standing up to adversity, and overcoming tremendous odds, mirroring in fiction the real-life challenges F1 drivers face each and every race,” said Karim Farghaly, Senior Vice President of Corporate Development at Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. Image Source: Scuderia.AlphaTauri.com

By Edward Jones – May 27, 2022

Amalgam Collection Announces Partnership With IndyCar, Re...

The prestigious maker of large-scale car models adds another incredible partnership to their repertoire. Amalgam Collection, the UK-based car model maker, has just announced a new partnership with IndyCar and their first model is already here. The first model that has come to fruition thanks to the partnership is a 1:8 scale replica of the Dallara IR-12 Chassis with Dallara IR-18 Aero Kit. This new model, like all of Amalgam Collection's creations, is insanely detailed and honestly looks as though you could drive it if you were small enough to sit in the cockpit. "We have long had the desire to work with the most important and historically significant motor racing series in North America, and we are proud to have been offered the opportunity to partner with INDYCAR to realize that ambition in full," says Sandy Copeman, founder and Brand Directory of Amalgam Collection. "We look forward to working with NTT INDYCAR SERIES teams and sponsors to create perfect 1:8 scale replicas of their cars for VIP gifting and display. The extensive details included in these models reflect the enormous number of highly skilled hours going into the creation of each piece and we are confident a significant number of collectors and fans will wish to add a perfect scale INDYCAR model to their collections." This new model will be available in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES livery to all while Amalgam Collection will create made-to-order models in team liveries for teams and team sponsors. For more information, be sure to visit AmalgamCollection.com.

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