Gear

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 – August 13, 2024

Concours Ready: Shop duPont REGISTRY's Style Guide For Mo...

Pull up to the peninsula in style with help from duPont REGISTRY. Monterey Car Week is the perfect time to step up your style game while enjoying some of the world’s most incredible cars. For events like The Quail: A Motorsport Gathering and The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, aim for a smart and comfortable look. A tailored blazer, a crisp white shirt, and some slim-fit chinos strike the right balance between casual and classy. Comfortable loafers or polished leather shoes are a good choice to keep you looking sharp as you explore the stunning vehicles on display. Accessories can really pull your outfit together. A nice watch is a great touch—something classic from brands like Rolex or TAG Heuer works well. Don’t forget a pair of sunglasses to handle those bright California days. Aviators or round frames are always stylish picks. A leather weekend bag is practical for carrying your essentials and adds a bit of sophistication as you move from one event to another. Add your personal touch with a few small details, like a pocket square or a well-made belt. These little extras can really elevate your look. Whether you’re there to check out the cars or just soak up the atmosphere, dressing well ensures you’ll fit right in with the stylish crowd. Take a look at our carefully curated list of luxury styles to help complete your Monterey Car Week wardrobe this year. duPont REGISTRY's Guide to Monterey Car Week 2024 What to wear to Monterey Car Week? For Monterey Car Week, aim for a smart casual look that’s stylish but comfortable. Think a tailored blazer, a crisp shirt, and chinos or nice jeans. Comfortable loafers or polished shoes are key since you’ll be on your feet a lot. Don’t forget sunglasses and a watch to pull it all together! What should I wear to an outdoor car show? For an outdoor car show, go for something comfortable and casual but still put-together. A nice polo or button-up shirt with jeans or chinos works well. Pair it with comfortable sneakers. What to wear to Quail: A Motorsport Gathering? For The Quail, choose a polished yet comfortable outfit. A tailored blazer paired with a crisp dress shirt and chinos or tailored trousers will keep you looking sharp. Comfortable loafers or classic dress shoes are a great choice, and a stylish pair of sunglasses will complete your ensemble perfectly. Tops Polo Soft Tailored Chambray Suit Jacket Ralph Lauren Shop Now HONOR THE GIFT Print Button-Up Shirt Nordstrom Shop Now Brooks Brothers Stretch Oxford Polo Button-Down Collar Brooks Brothers Shop Now Bonobos Pima Performance Polo Bonobos Shop Now Prada Short-Sleeved Selvedge Denim Shirt Sak's Fifth Avenue Shop Now Watches Glashütte Original Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date Shop Now Rolex Daytona Cosmograph Mayor's Shop Now Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph Roger Dubuis Shop Now Cartier Tank Must Large Watches of Switzerland Shop Now H. Moser Endeavour Perpetual Calendar Tantalum Blue Enamel H.Moser & cie Shop Now Bottoms J.Crew Thompson Pant J.Crew Shop Now HIROSHI KATO The Hammer Straight Leg 14oz Stretch Selvedge Jeans Nordstrom Shop Now Hartford Tank Slim-Fit Straight-Leg Linen Drawstring Shorts MR. PORTER Shop Now Footwear VEJA White & Navy Campo Leather Sneakers SSENSE Shop Now Gucci Jordaan Apron Toe Loafers Bloomingdale's Shop Now Tod's for Automobili Lamborghini Loafers Tod's Shop Now Porsche Design Cup Sole Trainers Porsche Design Shop Now Piloti Apex - Cognac Piloti Shop Now Accessories Johvan Straw Sun Hat American Hat Co. Shop Now melin The Legend Hydro Hat American Hat Co. Shop Now S&W Houndstooth Pocket Square Amazon Shop Now Buckle Down x Chevrolet Black Seatbelt Belt Zumiez Shop Now Leica SOFORT 2 Instant Camera B&H Photo Shop Now TUMI Harrison Bradner Backpack TUMI Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 17, 2022

The GearBox: Styled For Monterey Car Week 2022

The perfect attire and accessories to complement the show-stopping Ferrari 250 GTO during this years' Monterey Car Week. With Monterey Car Week 2022 in full effect, automotive collectors and enthusiasts race to California in hopes of seeing examples only best defined as bucket list examples. Establishing itself as one of the most exclusive automotive events in history, Monterey offers its breathtaking roads and landscape to an array of priceless vehicles like the legendary Ferrari 250 GTO. This week’s GearBox special focuses on styling the perfect wardrobe to attend some of the prestigious events throughout the week, including occasions like The Quail: A Motorsport Gathering and The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Shop any of the luxury products and accessories featured in this special by clicking on the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more luxury lifestyle news and GearBox specials. Ferrari 250 GTO Ferrari The 250 GTO model was the pinnacle of development of the 250 GT series in competition form, whilst still remaining a road car. It made its public debut at the annual pre-season Ferrari press conference in January 1962, and was the only front engine model on display, with its monoposto and sports racing counterparts all having a mid-engine configuration. All of the examples produced, apart from the ’64-bodied cars, had three removable ‘D’-shaped panels, retained by quarter turn fasteners, on the upper face of the nose, for increased radiator air throughput, the pattern being repeated with three similar uncovered openings in the underside of the nose panel. Price: MSRP $18,000 (equivalent to $153,000 today) View all Ferrari 250 For Sale Rolex Daytona 'Zenith Inverted 6' AS06052 Watches of Switzelrand The timepiece you're looking at is a Reference 16520 Cosmograph, known among collectors as the "Zenith Daytona" due to its internal automatic chronograph mechanism that is based on the world-famous high beat El Primero movement. This particular piece, a Reference 16528, dates to circa 1991 and features a solid 18k yellow gold construction, a lovely champagne Tritium dial with black sub register rings and a matching handset, matching yellow gold Oyster bracelet, and of course that Zenith-sourced El Primero heart beating inside. For when your average steel Zenith Daytona just doesn't cut it, this solid yellow gold example is here to save the day. Price: $75,000 Buy From Watches of Switzerland Ted Baker London Sibton Print Canvas Blazer Nordstrom An artistic design covers this polished Ted Baker London canvas blazer styled in a tailored fit with roomie patch pockets. With a look that stands out at any event, the Sibton Print Canvas Blazer is the perfect addition to any wardrobe. Price: $495 Buy From Nordstrom Ralph Lauren Purple Label Bengal-Stripe Shirt Ralph Lauren This Ralph Lauren Bengal-Striped Shirt comes as part of the exclusive Purple Label, crafted in Italy from lightweight cotton and finsihed with genuine mother-of-pearl buttons. Price: $495 Buy From Ralph Lauren A.P.C. Classic Chinos A.P.C. Known for its sophistication and elegance, Balmain is back with bold styles in the new AW21 collection. A fine example is this blue short-sleeve T-shirt, crafted from 100% cotton and finished with a pale pink logo-appliqué on the chest. Price: $295 Buy From A.P.C. Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneakers Farfetch Oversized lace-up low-top sneakers from Alexander McQueen featuring white, silver, leather, contrasting branded heel counter, front lace-up fastening, round toe and flat rubber sole. Price: $750 Buy From Farfetch Medford Knives Midi Marauder - PVD S35 Tanto, Predator Sculpting (CPO) The Medford Guy With all of the function and style as it's larger counterpart, this custom "Predator" sculpted Midi Marauder from Medford Knife and Tool is the perfect pocketknife for those people looking for a more carry-friendly package with the classic Marauder lines. The Medford Midi Marauder shares the same .190" thick blade thickness as the Marauder-H and still utilizes the overbuilt .187" solid titanium scales. When inches matter, the Midi Marauder measures in at 7.9" total length delivering a very capable everyday carry experience while having what it takes to be an absolute workhorse! New for 2022, the Midi Marauder knife features an improved breaker design that allows for easier use of knife lanyards and beads. Price: $1,000 Buy From The Medford Guy Persol JW Anderson Sunglasses Persol Combining the best of design and technology, its unique shape has become the unmistakable brand icon over time. The keyhole bridge, legendary arrow and Meflecto system are the details that have made this model a timeless classic. In collaboration with JW Anderson, an exclusive reinterpretation of the 649 is born in 4 unique color mixes. Price: $379 Buy From Persol Leica TL2 Mirrorless Camera (Silver) B&H Photo Video Buffed leather wallet in black featuring embossed logo pattern and perforated detailing throughout. Silver-tone logo hardware at face. Eight card slots, three note slots, and embossed logo at interior. Tonal textile lining. Silver-tone hardware. Approx. 4.5" length x 3.75" height. Price: $2,495 Buy From B&H Photo Video Shinola Fulton Navigator Leather Backpack Nordstrom Shinola specializes in quality watches and accessories featuring timeless designs worthy of passing down through generations. Made in Detroit, the former hub of American manufacturing, and built with components sourced throughout the U.S. and abroad. Rich leather adds natural color and texture to a handsome backpack that offers equal parts style and substance. Price: $795 Buy From Nordstrom For more GearBox specials, Check out The GearBox: Off-Road Adventure Expert

F1 Grand Prix of Great Britain 1 1200x788 1

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 04, 2022

The GearBox: 2022 Miami Grand Prix Edition

As Miami preps for its upcoming Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend, fans and spectators wait in anticipation for the flag to drop on the fresh South Florida circuit. This week’s GearBox focuses on the perfect wardrobe for any Scuderia Ferrari fan in attendance for the inaugural race. The list features premium apparel and accessories manufactured by world-renowned brands in celebration of the event. Whether you’re at the race or watching from the comfort of your home, tune into the Formula 1 2022 Miami Grand to see some of the most action-packed automotive racing on U.S. soil. Click on the links below to shop for all of the luxury apparel and accessories included in this special. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming GearBox specials. Ferrari F8 Tributo Ferrari The Ferrari F8 Tributo was named in celebration of the best 8-cylinder engine in the world. With its 720 horsepower, it’s the best-performing V8 ever for a Ferrari not from a limited series, based on a unit that won “International Engine of the Year” for three consecutive years (2016, 2017 and 2018), and that has been recognised as the best engine of the last 20 years. Price: MSRP $276,550 View All Ferrari F8 Tributo For Sale Richard Mille RM 65-01 Chronograph Richard Mille The RM 65-01 is Richard Mille's interpretation of a highly complex motorsport inspired chronograph. It fully embodies the brand's technical approach thanks to the combination of several additional functions, a very specific architecture and aesthetics of the highest order. Price: $3,750 Buy From Richard Mille PUMA Scuderia Ferrari Jacket PUMA Step off the Formula One track and onto the streets in this explosive fusion jacket, uniting the best of street style cool with authentic motorsport design. Combining an athletic track silhouette, racing-inspired color-blocking and PUMA and Scuderia Ferrari branding at the collar, this piece oozes auto sport style. It's also made with our signature dryCELL technology, designed to keep you cool and dry even when things heat up. Price: $110 Buy From PUMA Formula 1 Miami Collegiate Graphic T-Shirt F1 Store Wear the love of your chosen team at any time. Everyone needs t-shirts so make sure yours is built with F1 precision and style. Price: $38 Buy From The F1 Store Icecream Neon Cherry Jeans Nordstrom Icream's signature running dog leaps across a pair of slouchy skinny jeans that are effortlessly on-trend and casual. Price: $136.49 Buy From Nordstrom Scuderia Ferrari IONSpeed Motorsport Shoes PUMA If you've seen the latest Scuderia Ferrari GT cars, you'll know where this shoe derives its style inspiration from. This new-look shoe, co-created with Scuderia Ferrari, bridges the worlds of Formula 1 and GT super cars. And just as those cars are engineered for high performance, so have these shoes been, thanks in part to the ProFoam midsole. What that means is you get instant cushioning and a responsive ride - not unlike Scuderia Ferrari's own race car drivers enjoy when they're on the track. Price: $110 Buy From PUMA Formula 1 Miami Flatbrim Cap F1 Store A durable construction and embroidered Brixton logo patch makes this adjustable snapback hat an understated addition to any casual wardrobe. Price: $38 Buy From The F1 Store Persol PO3286S Champagne Sunglasses Persol This sun frame is characterized by emblematic retro elements and an iconic appeal. Featuring the iconic Arrow, Meflecto System in a sophisticated soft champagne tone with opaline acetate effect offering the perfect seasonal colorway. Price: $291 Buy From Persol Ferrari Leather Card Holder With Carbon Fiber Insert Ferrari Store Featuring an essential shape and automotive details, this unisex card holder stands out for its strong graphic impact. Enhanced by a “grille” on the front in tribute to Ferrari headlights, it has an authentic carbon fiber insert. The Prancing Horse stands out on the front with a sophisticated ruthenium finish. Price: $130 Buy From Ferrari Store Palm Angels Black Curved Logo Backpack Ssense The Palm Angels nylon-blend satin backpack in black featuring logo printed in white. The spacious construction offers the perfect amount of luxury and function. Price: $850 Buy From Ssense For more GearBox specials, Check out The GearBox: Electrified GT

By Andrew Nabors – February 19, 2019

Porsche Releases "24 Minutes of LeMans" on Vinyl

Are you old enough to remember when the CD arrived? It signaled the death of the phonograph, and analog audio altogether. History repeats itself, and record players are popular again. Prices for rare recording are steadily rising, so Porsche has released "24 Minutes of LeMans" on vinyl. Normal vinyl is not worthy to reproduce Porsche's history at the famous track. So they chopped up the last set of tires from the 919 Hybrid. These limited edition pressings are going up for auction this weekend. All proceeds are going to Loisirs Pluriel. It is an organization that cares for disabled children in France. 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 Touring vs 911R They offer a respite for children, enabling them to play, live and grow up with other children while also unburdening their parents. Kudos to Porsche for re-mastering the races of the past, and helping children in need. If you want a copy of this record, click the link below and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Porsche's 24 Minutes of LeMans Related: Porsche 919 Parades Around Manhattan

By Edward Jones – January 15, 2019

Wheels x Wardrobe: Arizona Auction Attire

Just after a new year is rung in, the Arizona Car Week comes around shortly thereafter. This means the town of Scottsdale is flooded with cars from around the world, a lot of them heading to the auction block. Barrett-Jackson is set to be the star of the desert during this week so be sure check out their exciting days of events. To help you get ready for the exciting week in the desert, we've put together a wardrobe that's perfect for the occasion. You've got the shades for the bright Arizona sun, comfortable/stylish attire from Robert Graham, Tom Ford shoes that are both comfy and sleek, and the perfect cologne for the studious man. Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale 2018 Auction SHop now Tom Ford Magnus 60mm Aviator Sunglasses SHop now - $430.00 Corum Golden Bridge Stream Timepiece SHop now Robert Graham Graydon Travel Sport Coat SHop now - $598.00 Robert Graham Belden Sport Shirt SHop now - $168.00 Robert Graham Cohn Perfect Fit Pants SHop now - $198.00 Tom Ford Jago Sneakers SHop now - $990.00 Creed VikingMen's Fragrance SHop now - $349.99

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