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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 – February 18, 2020

Wheels x Wardrobe: Chilled Taycan

It's still Winter, meaning the chilly weather is still hanging around and keeping us bundled up For this week's Wheels x Wardrobe, we have a chilled out wardrobe by Porsche Design that's paired with the new Taycan. The mint vibe is set by the sneakers and jacket, while the rest pairs wonderfully. Check it out down below! PORSCHE TAYCAN SHOP NOW PORSCHE DESIGN P´8683 SUNGLASSES SHOP NOW PORSCHE DESIGN 1919 GLOBETIMER UTC TITANIUM & BLACK SHOP NOW PORSCHE DESIGN MINIMALISTIC BLOUSON SHOP NOW PORSCHE DESIGN STAND COLLAR SHIRT SHOP NOW PORSCHE DESIGN BASIC CHINO SLIM FIT SHOP NOW PORSCHE DESIGN CUPSOLE CALF SHOP NOW PORSCHE DESIGN CASUAL BELT CHINO PIN BUCKLE 35 SHOP NOW

By Edward Jones – February 17, 2020

Scuderia Ferrari Spring/Summer 2020 Collection

The new Scuderia Ferrari Spring/Summer 2020 collection is finally here with a massive selection of apparel and gear for both men and women. A new YouTube video shows off some of the collection, including t-shirts, jackets, hats, shoes and more. There are multiple ways to shop for the Scuderia Ferrari collection. First, you can go to Ferrari's online shop to view the entire collection and make purchases. Secondly, you can head over to Puma.com to view Scuderia Ferrari gear in the Motorsport Collection. Whichever way you choose to shop, you'll be able to rep your favorite Italian automaker and racing team. SHOP PUMA.COM Image Source: Store.Ferrari.com

By Edward Jones – February 14, 2020

Roll Your Child in Style With a Bentley Stroller/Trike

If you drive a nice car, shouldn't your child have the chance to roll around in style as well? That's why the Bentley Stroller/Trike is a perfect way to have your little one roll around. It features a seat with diamond stitching, Bentley branding, a folding canopy, a rotating seat, 5-point seat belt and more. Bentley even designed the wheels after the Continental GT Speed. Also, it's designed for children of all stages as it can transform from a stroller controlled by the parents to a tricycle that they can cruise around by themselves on. For more information, click the button below. VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON.COM

By Edward Jones – February 13, 2020

Thom Browne and Samsumg Collaborate for Limited Galaxy Z ...

Samsung has announced a new phone that comes into the world thanks to a collaboration with renowned fashion brand Thom Browne. Called the Galaxy Z Flip Thom Browne Edition, it's based on the company's new and groundbreaking flip phone model. When closed, the phone is small and stylish but it opens up to a massive touchscreen. But it's not the technology that makes this special edition so... special. Making this a limited edition phone is quite a few features. For the phone itself, it comes with a pebble grey exterior with the brand colors running as stripes along the center of the phone. Coming with the phone in a big box is a heap of accessories. This includes a Galaxy Active2 watch and Galaxy Buds+, both with the same stylish livery as the phone. There is also an extra watch strap and leather phone case. Only a few of these phones will be sold with pre-orders starting on February 14 on Samsung.com and MRPORTER.com. shop samsung.com Source: Samsung

By Edward Jones – February 11, 2020

Wheels x Wardrobe: Valentine's Day Rush

WHEELS x WARDROBE: VALENTINE'S DAY RUSH Valentine's Day is almost here and that means people are scrambling to get the right gift. For most, the Valentine's Day is all about being with each other and having a day to remember. For that, we put together a comfortable red outfit that's matched with red rides (you have to drive your Valentine in style). As a bonus, there's a Theragun for a nice massage after a long day. Check it out down below. THE RIDE Top 10 Vehicles For Your Valentine VIEW LISTINGS MELIN THE HAT melin Trenches Icon Hydro VIEW WATCH SUNGLASS HUT THE SHADES Oakley Targetline SHOP NOW MR PORTER THE WATCH HYT H1.0 X MR PORTER SHOP NOW LULULEMON THE JACKET lululemon WARP LITE JACKET SHOP NOW LULULEMON THE SHIRT lululemon METAL VENT TECH POLO 2.0 SHOP NOW LULULEMON THE PANTS lululemon SURGE JOGGER SHOP NOW NIKE THE SHOES NIKE AIR ZOOM PEGASUS 36 TRAIL SHOP NOW HERSCHEL THE BAG HERSCHEL HERITAGE BACKPACK SHOP NOW THERAGUN THE RELIEF THERAGUN G3 SHOP NOW Some links included in this article may be affiliate links which we will earn a commission on through purchases and click-throughs.

By Edward Jones – February 10, 2020

New HYT H1.0 x MR PORTER Watch Announced

HYT has just announced a new watch that's the result of a partnership with MR PORTER and it's called the H1.0 x MR PORTER. This new watch features the same time-telling mechanic that HYT is known for, which involved two fluids that are pushed through a tube. Where these two fluids meet is where you can find the current time. As for the specific design of this new watch, its visual was created between the like-minded partners. It's primarily black appearance is contrasted by white and red notes that can be spotted on the dial and side of the case. There's also Super-LumiNova® details so you can tell time no matter the sun's position in the sky or the light that's available to you. All-around, this is a stunning watch that is incredibly stylish- the black, white and red color scheme is a homerun. If you're a fan of this watch and want to add it to your collection, click the button below where you can shop all HYT watches for sale on MRPORTER.com. SHOP MRPORTER.COM

By Edward Jones – February 03, 2020

Meet the New Jeep e-Bike

While watching this year's Big Game, did you happen to see the Jeep commercial? If you did, you saw Bill Murray going for a ride on a bike with Punxsutawney Phil sitting in the front basket. That bike that the two are cruising on is actually the all-new Jeep e-Bike. This new bike is powered by QuietKat, a company that specializes in electric bikes. For power, this bike has a 750 Watt electric motor that spins to 4.8-inch fat tires. Thanks to the power, fat tires and heavy-duty suspension, this bike can tackle some serious terrain. If you're interested, you can learn more by visiting Jeepe-Bike.com. The bike is set to launch in June 2020. SEE ALL JEEP WRANGLERS FOR SALE Source: Jeep, QuietKat

By Edward Jones – February 03, 2020

Wheels x Wardrobe: Horsepower

WHEELS x WARDROBE: Horsepower When you buy a truck, you should have a go-to outfit that matches the spirit of your new vehicle. For this week's Wheels x Wardrobe, we present you with a brutal Shelby F-150 truck and simple outfit that's highlighted by two pieces: a NightRider watch and Rhude's western-inspired jacket. Get ready to say 'Giddy Up' because this outfit will provide you with plenty of horsepower. THE RIDE Shelby F-150 VIEW LISTINGS NIGHTRIDER THE WATCH NightRider Limited Edition Swiss Automatic Watches VIEW WATCH MR PORTER THE JACKET Rhude Printed Denim Trucker Jacket SHOP NOW BUCK MASON THE SHIRT Buck Mason Slub Vintage Pocket Tee SHOP NOW MR PORTER THE PANTS Rhude Skinny-Fit Distressed Denim Jeans SHOP NOW NORDSTROM THE SHOES Dr. Martens 1460 Boot SHOP NOW

By Edward Jones – January 31, 2020

Diamond and Ruby Beats Headphones Cost $750,000

Graff and Beat by Dre teamed up to create a pair of what has to be the most luxurious pair of headphones known to man. These Beats Pro by Dre headphones were created for the performers of the Halftime Show at the Big Game in 2011 and they're unlike anything you've seen before. They come with over 120 carats of Graff diamonds (over 1,500 diamonds) and 3.35 carats of rubies, all of which have been placed ever so delicately. These headphones have been worn by the likes of Madonna, LMFAO and Lil Wayne. These are one-of-a-kind and can be purchased now on 1stdibs.com for $750,000. You can learn more by clicking here. Source: 1stdibs.com

By Edward Jones – January 30, 2020

New VR Racing Helmet is the Ultimate Way to Play

If you have ever used a racing simulator before, you know just how thrilling it is. You get the experience of racing without all of the fuel expenses, insurance fees, having to buy a race car, etc. The best part is being able to race in the comfort of your home... in your pajamas if you'd like. If you want to take your simulator experience to the next level, you have to utilize virtual reality technology. And there's no better way to do that than Stilo's ST5VR helmet. This helmet allows the wearer to place their Oculus Rift headset into the helmet, giving them a true sense of racing. With a helmet on and the action right in front of your eyes, you're really in the race. To learn more, click the button below. SHOP NOW

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