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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 – December 03, 2020

See the World's Most Valuable Hot Wheel

Automotive enthusiasts of all ages can appreciate the little cars known as Hot Wheels. Since they first hit stores in 1968, there have been an untold amount of different Hot Wheels created but one stands out as the world's most valuable. Interestingly enough, it's the pink Volkswagen Beach Bomb prototype. Yes, it's a bus. This specific Hot Wheel was created when Volkswagen and Hot Wheels first collaborated. However, this prototype's narrow body and rear-exiting surfboard made it unstable. A redesigned example of the Volkswagen Beach Bomb made it to production with weight sides and surfboards moved to the sides. Only Hot Wheels employees had access to the original prototypes, so they have become true rarities. “I already had heard about in purple, green, red, light blue and gold. I even had heard about an unpainted model,” said Bruce Pascal, the owner of the pink Volkswagen Beach Bomb prototype.. “But pink was extremely hard to find. Most Hot Wheels models were marketed to young boys, who the brand assumed didn’t want to play with pink. They created just a few pink models to market to their female audience.” Pascal won't say how much he purchased the Hot Wheel for, but he notes that it's worth an estimated $150,000. That's quite the price for a Hot Wheel. However, it's not the only Hot Wheel he owns. In fact, he has over 4,000 Hot Wheels models and around 3,000 pieces of memorabilia. Still, his pink bus is his most prized piece in his collection. Shop Hot Wheels

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 03, 2020

Ralph Lauren Releases A $1,595 Bugatti Type 57SC Coupe Model

In the world of automotive collectibles, craftsmanship and attention to detail are key for capture all that a vehicle portrays in a significantly smaller version. Many model companies focus their efforts to stay true to this process as a sole operation. Ralph Lauren is also playing its part in this industry with its own variation of high-end collectible models. They have announced a new addition to the miniature garage line up in the form of a black Bugatti 57SC Atlantic Coupe. The vehicle is a staple to the hypercar brand, as it holds a special place as a mysterious chassis that disappeared somewhere throughout the world. The model by Ralph Lauren is an exquisitely detailed example featuring premium materials and designs to best portray all that Bugatti did back in the late 1930s. The packaging includes a commemorative styled box as well as a quality display case for any automotive enthusiast looking for the next best collectible. Shop the Ralph Lauren Bugatti Type 57SC Coupe model by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 03, 2020

Watch BMW Unveil "M-Town" As Part Of A New Merchandise Co...

It is nothing new to say that the BMW M community is derived from passionate individuals that circulated aspects of their lives around the obsession with M performance, whether it be the car used for commuting or the clothes and accessories in the closet. If any BMW enthusiast could live in a town full of M cars with individuals that share the same desire, it would be a perfect world. BMW brought that vision to the screen, with its most recent video of M-Town unveiling the merchandise shop that provides an array of clothing options. The inspiration behind the project is to blend the successful historic past of the BMW M-Division with the future endeavors of chasing the quest for design and performance. Throughout the video, BMW places a few surprising cameos in the form of both people and vehicles. Shmee150 makes an appearance as a fan that is more than excited to take his own trip to M-Town. A very special BMW M3 Wagon also has its 5 seconds of fame as the camera pans across, giving the public an ever so small glimpse at the anticipated release. The collection features graphic t-shirts and sweatshirts sporting the iconic M colors, as well as vehicle timelines back to when the E30 M3 made its first appearance. The BMW M-Town Merchandise is currently available by clicking the link below. Shop M-Town Merchandise " width="680">

By Edward Jones – December 03, 2020

New Montblanc x Pirelli Limited Edition Luggage Now Avail...

Montblanc and Pirelli's partnership has resulted in yet another limited edition trolley case. This new Montblanc x Pirelli trolley case is incredibly lightweight, spacious and versatile, making it perfect for both business and leisure travel. The exterior shell of the trolley case is made of black polycarbonate with black rubberized leather trimming and a red leather accent across the front. At the bottom are 360-degree ball-bearing wheels that include the Pirelli logo and "P Zero" lettering, just like the real wheels. This new Montblanc x Pirelli special edition trolley is available for sale on Montblanc's website for $1,280. To buy it now, be sure to click the button below. Shop On Montblanc.com

By Edward Jones – December 03, 2020

The Outlierman's New Collection is Classic Car-Inspired

The Outlierman has just unveiled two new leather goods that will be perfect for any fan of classic automobiles... or anyone who enjoys stylish gear. The new six-slot cardholder and a long wallet feature the "Outlierman's Roads" lining. Each item is crafted from full-grain calfskin leather and 100% cotton drill lining. Contrasting external stitching is also used as a reference to the classic interiors found in automobiles like the Jaguar XK120 and Ferrari 166 MM. Place on the outside of each item is The Outlierman's signature silver steering wheel logo, which is the perfect cherry on top. The long wallet comes with a price of $173 while the cardholder has a price of $125. You can shop the collection and more of their gear by clicking here.

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 02, 2020

Discover The Santoni For AMG Collection

When you are a car enthusiast, it is easier to want to find footwear and accessories that pair well with your personal or dream car. Mercedes-AMG has collaborated with luxury shoemaker Santoni to make it easier for owners and enthusiasts to shop products with inspiration from supercars. The main aspect of the partnership is to blend the quality and performance of each brand into comfortable daily footwear for men and women. The styles in the Santoni For AMG Collection include both formal and casual silhouettes, making the transition from the track to a daily routine effortless. The craftsmanship that goes into each sneaker produced mimics the production process of a Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, which is why the collaboration between the two pairs so well. The Santoni For AMG Collection is currently available to shop by clicking the link below. Shop The Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 02, 2020

Wheels X Wardrobe: Rockstar Senna

The Rockstar lifestyle can open doors to obtaining some of the rarest luxury items in the world, but there is one man who stays true to being himself while splurging on some gifts for the garage and closet. Post Malone is the definition of staying humbly successful, styling himself in only what he feels is a true extension of himself while filling his garage with rare collectible vehicles. This week’s Wheels X Wardrobe special focuses on Post Malone’s McLaren Senna XP Master of Monaco for sale, as well as an outfit to go along with the rockstar lifestyle. Click any of the links below to shop the products featured in this special. Vehicle Post Malone's 2019 McLaren Senna XP Master of Monaco Call For Price View McLaren Senna For Sale Watch Richard Mille RM 052 Tourbillon Skull $500,000 Learn More Top AN4279 Post Malone X Arnette Sunglasses $79.84 Shop Now AllSaints Milo Leather Biker Jacket $499 Shop Now Posty Co. Live From LA Photo Long Sleeve $50 Shop Now Bottom AMIRI MX1 Skinny-Fit Distressed Leather-Panelled Stretch-Denim Jeans $1,090 Shop Now Footwear Crocs Duet Clog Post Malone $83 Shop Now Accessories Beats Solo Pro Wireless Noise Cancelling On-Ear Headphones $299.95 Shop Now Maison 9 French Riviera Rosè 750ml $21.99 Shop Now Gibson SG Standard Electric Guitar $1,499 Shop Now Posty Co. Guitar Pick Set $20 Shop Now The Rockstar Senna Breakdown Post Malone's 2019 McLaren Senna XP Master of Monaco Call For Price Richard Mille RM 052 Tourbillon Skull $500,000 AN4279 Post Malone X Arnette Sunglasses $79.84 AllSaints Milo Leather Biker Jacket $499 Posty Co. Live From LA Photo Long Sleeve $50 Mr. Porter MX1 Skinny-Fit Distressed Leather-Panelled Stretch-Denim Jeans $1,090 Crocs Duet Clog Post Malone $83 Beats Solo Pro Wireless Noise Cancelling On-Ear Headphones $299.95 Maison 9 French Riviera Rosè 750ml $21.99 Gibson SG Standard Electric Guitar $1,499 Posty Co. Guitar Pick Set $20

By Edward Jones – December 02, 2020

LEGO Porsche 911 RSR Gets Epic Photoshoot

Tomek Makolski is a photographer with an affinity for automobiles. Being a track day driver and automotive enthusiast, he truly appreciates automotive photography. But Porsche's newsroom has just unveiled a set of automotive photographs by Makolski that are not exactly what you'd expect. After Porsche and LEGO released the new 911 RSR Technic set, Makolski came up with a brilliant idea. He booked a flight to Dubai and captured shots of areas where he would expect a real 911 RSR to be racing through. He then went to his studio in Warsaw and captured photographs of the LEGO 911 RSR with lightning that would match up with the light of the location shots. Then, in post, he edited the LEGO Porsche into the sceneries for a truly magnificent result. You can check them out in the gallery below. If you'd like to buy your own Porsche 911 RSR LEGO Technic set, click the button below. Shop On LEGO.com Image Source: Porsche Newsroom

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 02, 2020

Adidas x Prada Unveil An A+P Luna Rossa Sneaker Collabora...

Adidas in collaboration with luxury designer Prada has announced that they will be releasing a sneaker inspired by the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team. The newest addition to the A+P Collection has based on a new minimal low-cut silhouette with sports-driven functionality. The construction of the sneaker is a similar process when designing the AC75 Luna Rossa race boat, finding areas to create strength and comfort to enhance performance. The upper made from high-performance recycled materials provides a lightweight feel and more comfortable wear. The Boost cushion midsole allows for forgiving impact whether on the AC75 in the ocean or just casually strolling around the block. The grip is one of the most important aspects of the Adidas x Prada Luna Rossa sneaker, which is why the outsole is wrapped in a traction grabbing rubber. The sneaker will be releasing on December 9th with pricing yet to be determined, through the Adidas website. Discover the Adidas x Prada Luna Rossa sneaker by clicking the link below. Learn More Prada

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 02, 2020

How To Buy: Herschel x Hot Wheels x Land Rover Defender 9...

Collaborations are meant to celebrate not only the finished product, but also the adventure of merging industries, styles, and designs. Herschel Supply Co., Hot Wheels, and Land Rover began their adventure of creating a special edition model. The new release will feature a Land Rover Defender 90 sporting a Herschel Supply Co. livery, commemorating the company’s 10th anniversary. The special edition Land Rover includes a display case that signifies the collaboration between the three companies. The Herschel x Hot Wheels x Land Rover special edition model will be available through the Mattel Creations website. Date: December 2nd, 2020 Time: 12:00 PM EST Where: Mattel Creations (SOLD OUT)

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