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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 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

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

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 04, 2020

RIMOWA Is Releasing A Travel Watch Case For $2,050

A luxury timepiece is much more than just a tool for the wrist. Watches are often investments for individuals to protect throughout time. The best way to keep precious examples safe is to purchase a watch case, whether it be a large accessory for the home or a compact portable option for on the go. RIMOWA is releasing a high-end watch case made from premium lightweight materials, ensuring safety during travel. The exterior is made from anodized aluminum and presented in a brushed finish that easily fits in with the RIMOWA collection. The inside is lined with microfiber to help protect precious metals and sapphire crystals. The RIMOWA Watch Case will release on November 11th for the price of $2,050. Click the link below to learn more about the most recent release from RIMOWA. Date: November 11th, 2020 Where: RIMOWA Website

By Edward Jones – November 03, 2020

McLaren X Castore Sportswear Collection Debuted

McLaren Automotive and Castore, the British premium sportswear brand, have teamed up for a special sportswear collection for men. this new collection takes inspiration from McLaren's design language and their use of lightweight materials. With bonded seams, ergonomic fits, heat-reducing fabric and fantastic airflow, the collection will keep the wearer comfortable and at perfect temperature... kind of like a McLaren cabin. Within the collection are training and lifestyle pieces like t-shirts, performance tops and outerwear. "Castore is delighted to be collaborating with luxury supercar maker McLaren, one of the most respected luxury and technology brands in the world, known for pushing the boundaries of innovation," says Tom Beahon, co-founder of Castore. "McLaren Automotive and Castore share a deep commitment to technical and product excellence and our first exclusive capsule collection reflects both brands shared ethos." The new collection can be shopped at Castore.com by clicking the button below. Visit Castore.com

By Edward Jones – November 02, 2020

Persol Releases Updated Sunglasses From 'The Talented Mr....

In the 1999 thriller 'The Talented Mr. Ripley', Jude Law's character sports some stylish shades while enjoying the waters of Italy. These shades were actually the PO3260S sunglasses from Persol. Now, just over two decades later, Persol has released an updated version of these shades with new materials and styles. The overall shape and design remain the same, but slight touches and new styles bring the famed sunglasses into the modern era of fashion. In total, there are seven different variants of the PO3260S sunglasses, including the Havana style that Law wore. They come with a price of $260 for non-polarized lenses and $310 with polarized lenses. Click the button below to check them out for yourself. Shop On Persol.com https://www.facebook.com/TheTalentedMrRipleyMovie/photos/317843734944572

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 29, 2020

Bang & Olufsen Releases Beolit 20 Speaker With Wireless C...

Bang and Olufsen are responsible for providing homes and automobiles with premium audio products to enhance the listening experience for all. The luxury Danish electronics company released an on the go speaker, with a built-in wireless charging station. The Bang and Olufsen Beolit 20 is the fourth generation of a modern classic in wireless speaker design. An enhanced battery provides users with 8-hours of playtime at a typical listening volume. The ability to charge mobile devices wirelessly was added, with a Qi-compatible charging surface, as well as an option for a USB-C plugin. The Beolit 20 is currently available in both Grey Mist and Black Anthracite, for the price of $500. Shop the Bang and Olufsen Beolit 20 Portable Bluetooth Speaker by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Edward Jones – October 29, 2020

New Bentley Jewelry Collection Features Brilliant Array o...

A new Bentley Jewelry collection has been launched that includes brilliant gemstones meant to mirror the exterior paint colors of Bentley automobiles. Within the collection are precious gemstones that have been selected, cut and polished at the Heinz Mayer factory, Bentley's jewelry partner. Gemstones like tanzanite, the Padparadscha sapphire and Mandarin garnet can be found embedded in rings, earrings and pendants in White Gold, Pink Gold, Yellow Gold or Platinum. The collection also offers a variety in sizes. If you look down below in the gallery, you can see just how many different gemstones are included in this collection, allowing customers to pick just about any color they want. And if you happen to own a Bentley, you may be able to find a gemstone that matches your ride. For more information on this illustrious collection, click here to visit Bentley-Jewellery.com. See All Bentleys For Sale

By Edward Jones – October 28, 2020

Hyundai Has Created the "World's Smallest EV"

While electric vehicles for adults may be the way of the future, kids have been cruising around in electric rides for decades. To give the kids something new and electric to ride in, Hyundai has created a mini EV based on their '45' Concept car. This little ride packs two DC motors that propel it to a top speed of 4.3 mph. In the press release regarding the mini concept EV, they provide the following cheeky disclaimer: "Only the bravest souls will take the wheel of this speedster." One detail about this mini EV that's quite fascinating is that they built it out of wood. While there's no word on the production of this slick ride just yet, Hyundai notes the following: "Further details will be revealed soon on how this one-of-a-kind EV will offer a unique mobility experience for young customers." In the meantime, you can buy your kid a mini Bugatti Divo via the link below. Kid's Bugatti Divo Electric Car For Sale

By Edward Jones – October 28, 2020

Harley-Davidson Announces Series 1 eBike

Harley-Davidson's first creation, Series Number 1, was far different than the motorcycles we see today. In fact, the motorcycle looked more like a bicycle by today's standard. With such a design, it makes perfect sense that Harley-Davidson's first eBike pays homage to the motorcycle that started it all. Called the Serial 1 eBike, this new bike from Harley-Davidson drops the loud engine for a quiet electric motor. What I really enjoy about this new eBike is that the motor's presence is hardly noticeable and it honestly looks like a regular bicycle. If you combine that with the classic style that really does a great job at mimicking the 1903 motorcycle, you have the recipe for a hit. More information regarding the Harley-Davidson Series 1 eBike will be released on November 16, 2020 when it makes its full debut. See All Harley-Davidson's For Sale

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