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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 – May 06, 2020

Forza Street Launches for iOS and Android

Playing either Forza Motorsport or Forza Horizon on your console or PC is an absolute blast. But what about when you're on the go and still want to get your Forza fix in? For that, there's Forza Street, which has launched as a free-to-play game on both iOS and Android phones. The game is simple enough, having you hold the gas down to go but release around the corners. There is, of course, plenty of nitrous boosting to go around. When races go well, you eventually earn new cars in different categories like super, muscle, street and more. It's an addicting game if you're a car enthusiast. Let's face it, everyone loves filling up their virtual garages, especially when the graphics are this good. No joke, this game is downright beautiful. If you click the buttons below, you'll be taken to the respective stores to download the game. Again, it's free-to-play so you can download it and try it without spending a penny. Download for Android Download for iOS

By Edward Jones – May 06, 2020

Lamborghini Teases LEGO Technic Sian Set

Back in January of this year, Lamborghini teased us with the announced that a new, big LEGO set based on one of their cars is coming. Now, Lamborghini has given us yet another teaser, via Facebook, of this set and it looks like its going to be of their new Sian. You can view this teaser down below. The hybrid-powered Sian is set to be the most powerful Lamborghini ever produced. While this LEGO set won't be powered, it is promised to be rather large. When Lamborghini and LEGO announced their new partnership, they noted that it would start with a new 1:8 scale set that would be coming this summer. Could this Sian be it? More than likely, but we will have to wait to find out! In the meantime, check out LEGO's online shop for the rest of their awesome automotive sets. Shop LEGO Car Sets https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=external&v=547510579517627

By Edward Jones – May 05, 2020

New Chronoswiss Open Gear ReSec in Blue and Gold

Chronoswiss is following up their beautiful Open Gear ReSec Electric Blue with a new version that adds gold. Now, if you're looking for a more royal or beautiful color combination than blue and gold, I doubt you'd find it. All it takes is a quick glance at the dial of this new timepiece to know that blue and gold go together so unbelievably well. The exquisite engineering and craftsmanship of Chronoswiss allow for layers upon layers of the colors to stack upon each other, resulting in a stunning display. The timepiece itself is has a 44mm case with automatic movement, courtesy of the Caliber C.301. On the dials, you'll notice they have been intricately guilloched by hand. As for the strap, the material used is Hornback crocodile leather that's been handsewn. Other characteristics that should be noted include its water resistance depth of 100m, 42-hour power reserve, and Super-LumiNova indexes. If you're interested in this magnificent timepiece, only 50 will be created. Learn More Source: Chronoswiss.com

By Edward Jones – May 05, 2020

Espresso Veloce RS Black Edition Adds Horsepower to Your ...

Coffee makers can be found anywhere and they all typically look the same. So, if you're looking for something unique to brew your coffee and happen to be a fan of everything automotive, then you have to check this one out. SuperVeloce's new Espresso Veloce RS Black Edition is a truly special espresso machine that's inspired by the Porsche 993's air-cooled flat-six engines. It has an all-black appearance and is crafted out of materials like stainless steel, aluminum alloy, titanium, and carbon fiber. Only 993 examples of this fine espresso machine are set to be produced and they will all be available to be purchased globally. The price is set at 10,200 euros, which equates to roughly $11,000 USD. For more information on this stupendously stylish espresso machine, click the button below. Learn More Source: SuperVeloce.co

By Edward Jones – May 04, 2020

BMW Launches New 2020 Lifestyle Collections

BMW has just launched their new 2020 Lifestyle Collections, as it's a tradition for the brand to introduced new items in Spring. There are a lot of items dispersed through the multiple collections that were unveiled. First up is the BMW Collection, which includes clothing as well as accessories. Some highlights in this collection include the BMW Chronograph watch, BMW Soft Down Jacket, and Montblanc for BMW Backpack. BMW also unveiled the new items for the BMW M Collection and BMW M Motorsport Collection, both celebrating their M Performance models and motorsports team. There was also the new B3T for MW Gravelikes introduced in the collection, which is available in two different colors. For the kids, there is a collection of BMW ride-on cars for them to cruise around in. These collections are now available in BMW dealerships around the globe, so be sure to check and shop! Visit ShopBMWUSA.com Source: BMW

By Edward Jones – May 01, 2020

Lewis Hamilton and Police Launch New Glasses Collection

Lewis Hamilton and Police have teamed up for a special collection of sunglasses and glasses that's perfect for fans of the Formula 1 champion and those who prefer to not be blinded by the sun or even see clearly. This collection was inspired by classic and retro shapes, giving each of the glasses in the collection a very unique design. Lewis Hamilton's Panther logo can also be found on the sunglasses and glasses. Police used materials like bio-acetate, titanium and rubber for the construction of the collection. The bio-acetate option was chosen for its sustainable property, being combined with bio-based plasticizers comprised of renewable materials. There are quite a few different options in the collection, so be sure to click the button below to see them all for yourself. Shop Now https://www.instagram.com/p/B_j_eEXAmg1/ Featured Image Source: PoliceLifestyle.com

By Dylan Orluck – May 01, 2020

Period Correct Announces New FINA Livery Collection

Automotive inspired apparel company Period Correct is at again with a new collection inspired by one of their favorite liveries. You may recognize this Fina livery on the e30 M3 due to the fact that is on one of the most legendary McLaren F1’s in history. Unlike the F1 this e30 took things off-road and made a name for itself in the Group A | DTM scene. That particular M3 is still incredibly fast by today’s standards and could outrun an F80 M3 any day of the week. The new collection drops tomorrow Saturday, May 2nd at 9am, so make sure to head over to Periodcorrect.com to get yours, and while you're at it check out some of their other awesome gear. Visit PeriodCorrect.com https://www.instagram.com/p/B_km0MZDDOD/ Source: Instagram/@periodcorrect

By Alyssa Mammano – May 01, 2020

Bang & Olufsen Offers $2,000 off Immersive Cinematic Expe...

Imagine inviting guests over to your contemporary mansion for a relaxed evening of cinematic viewing. You gather around the entertainment system, get comfortable in your overstuffed seating and awaken a remarkable viewing experience. With the touch of a button, your speakers expand out like a butterfly and the screen rises to your ideal viewing height. You are immersed in every detail of movies, shows and sporting events with up-to-the-minute 4K screen technology. Acoustic bliss emanating from the stereo speakers creates an all-encompassing experience that is sure to envelop you and your guests. As technologically advanced as the systems are, they are equally as visually appealing. Band & Olufsen configurations seamlessly marry streamlined aesthetics with the ultra-important viewing experience. Every detail is carefully considered to personalize the system to the viewer's tastes and provide the highest quality imagery and sound. Crystal-clear, ultra-sharp 4K screens combine with the world's most powerful TV sound to create the ultimate viewing experience. Nodding to classic Danish design concepts, the mid-century speakers resembling wooden blinds conceal the TV until you are ready to watch. The set-up completely integrates with your home's décor for a pleasing visual effect. Units can also be customized to your liking with two color options combining warm wood tones with bold metal complements. For a limited time, Bang & Olufsen is now offering a $2,000 USD or $3,000 CAD discount toward the purchase of a new Beovision Harmony or Beovision Eclipse when you trade your current TV. This offer is extended through May 15th, 2020. Customize Your Configuration Photography via Bang & Olufsen

By Edward Jones – April 30, 2020

Get $100 Off Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones

Social distancing is what we should all be doing at the moment, but you can distance yourself even further with a nice pair of headphones. But not any headphones. What you need are some serious noise-cancelling headphones that take you away from everything around you. Now you can buy the Bose 700 noise-cancelling headphones for $100 off, bringing the total to just $299.95. Now, this deal is only for the headphones in the Soapstone color, but both Black and Luxe Silver are also on sale for $50 off. If you want to take your noise-cancelling experience to the next level, you can get them with the charging case for $399.95, $50 off full price. Click the button below to see the deal for yourself. Shop Now Source: Bose

By Andrew Nabors – April 30, 2020

Zenith Unveils the CHRONOMASTER Revival Shadow

A legend exists among horologists. The rumor is that Zenith decided to build their Chronomaster in an anodized titanium case for the ultimate dark accessory. However, as the 1970's were approaching, bling and luster were the zeitgeist of the watch industry. Therefore, after a few prototypes were made, this black beast was shelved for a time when we needed a dark hero. Much like Batman returning to Gotham, Zenith has unveiled the CHRONOMASTER Revival Shadow. Once was old is new again, and as such, five decades have not taken anything from this timepiece. Each one is built in a 37mm case that was saved from the smelter. These are original machined cases from 1969. They house a movement with Hz frequency, power reserve of 50 hours, and a rated depth of 5 atmospheres (50 meters or 164 feet). Here are all the finer details: Movement Movement:El Primero 4061 Automatic Components 282 Frequency 36,000 VpH (5 Hz) Power reservemin. 50 hours Functions Central chronograph hand 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock Hours and minutes in the centre Small seconds at 9 o'clock Tachymetric scale Case Material:Microblasted titanium Diameter37 mm Water-resistance: 5 ATM Dial:Black Strap Black "Cordura" effect Clasp: Microblasted titanium pin buckle If you value the history of iconic watches, this limited run wont last long. Click the link below for all the info. Learn More

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