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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

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By Jordan Aquistapace – September 28, 2020

Supreme Sets Release For Leica Binoculars

The Supreme brand is responsible for one of the most sought after released products throughout the entire year. Each Thursday, a new array of original or collaborative products are announced. All sold in a matter of minutes. The hype increases as collaborating brands become more exclusive, such as Leica. The high-end duo has announced the anticipated release of vibrant red binoculars sporting both the Leica and Supreme logos. Originally set to be included in the Supreme Spring/Summer 2020 Collection, the project was pushed back to the Fall/Winter 2020 instead. There will be only 182 examples of the high-end binoculars, with an undisclosed retail price. https://www.instagram.com/p/CFj-R0WARAB/

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 25, 2020

Shop Jordan Bespoke's Automotive Inspired Fine Leather Goods

The idea of pairing British design with fine Italian hand-crafted materials seems to be the perfect combination. It’s the exact approach that Simon Jordan has followed creating Jordan Bespoke. The premier leather goods and accessories manufacturer. The company draws inspiration from automotive design, an industry that Simon has been involved with since an early age. Jordan Bespoke specializes in creating custom pieces such as briefcases, folios, helmet bags, and small leather goods tailored to each customer’s vision. The product differentiation has allowed Simon to create relationships with some of the biggest names and manufacturers in the automotive industry, such as the late Niki Lauda and McLaren Automotive. They also collaborate with large non-automotive companies that are simply looking for the finest quality leather products with the ability to personalize each piece. Jordan Bespoke truly understands the ins and outs of designing and creating a product that both functions to the highest ability while standing out in the most subtle ways. Shop Jordan Bespoke and use our code "DPR15" to receive 15% off. Shop Jordan Bespoke

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 24, 2020

Mercedes-Benz AMG Offers More Storage In Performance Desi...

For the individuals who fill all the seats and pack their Mercedes-Benz AMG to hit the open road, a stylish accessory is being introduced. Mercedes-Benz AMG will be releasing a performance style roof box for their vehicle line up. The news came from the Mercedes-AMG Instagram page presenting the new roof box on an AMG GT63. The added storage compartment differs from traditional systems in a way that both focuses on a design using aesthetic accents while functioning as an aerodynamic structure. The extra storage roof box will be available in November of 2020.

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 24, 2020

The North Face X Gucci Collaboration Is On The Way

There is something special about two brands on opposite ends of an industry coming together to introduce a whole new vision. The brands Gucci and The North Face are commonly known throughout the world but as completely different styles. A collaboration has been announced on Gucci’s Instagram using a newly designed logo. It seems that Gucci is taking a step outdoors with inspiration from The North Face, although visuals of products have yet to be released yet. The collaboration collection is an anticipated release that is helping bridge the gap between two ends of the fashion world. Check back to stay up to date with news on The North Face x Gucci collaboration and all other things lifestyle. https://www.instagram.com/p/CFgwD3QCKJJ/

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 24, 2020

The All New PUMA Motorsports x Mercedes-AMG Petronas Spee...

PUMA Motorsports continues to release the Speedcat Pro model, a track-focused shoe designed with the help of Formula One’s best drivers. We have seen models that feature team collaborations such as Scuderia Ferrari and Red Bull Racing, but the most recent release being Mercedes-AMG Petronas. Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas pro models will be released in a limited production reflecting the footwear used in each race. Source: PUMA Motorsport The idea behind the construction of the PUMA Speedcat Pro is to eliminate weight while still providing strength and grip. Materials such as lightweight fabrics and carbon fiber are used and help protect against fire. A low-profile rubber outsole added to make the grip transition between pedals effortless and more efficient. The PUMA Speedcat Pro is the perfect way to separate a daily commute to a weekend at the track. Shop the Mercedes-AMG Petronas x PUMA Speedcat Pro by clicking the link below. Shop PUMA Speedcat Pro

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 23, 2020

Wheels X Wardrobe: Electric Elegance

The market for fully electric vehicles has transitioned into the hypercar realm. Independent brands like the Drako are leading the way, creating models like the GTE to display the balance of non-emission technology, performance, and design. Its entry into the automotive industry had made a significant first impression, with the revelation that the hypercar is capable of 1200 horsepower. A first impression that is comparable to meeting a successful business individual in a sophisticated suit. This week’s Wheels and Wardrobe focuses on paring the $1.3 million-dollar Drako GTE with the apparel and accessories to compliment the affluent lifestyle. The Electric Elegance Breakdown 2020 Drako Motors GTE $1.3 Million Ulysse Nardin Freak X 43mm Watch $46,000 Eton Signature Twill Black Shirt $250 Tom Ford Shelton Mohair and Silk Blend Suit Jacket $4,320 Tom Ford Mohair and Silk Blend Suit Trousers $1,420 Christian Louboutin Spike-Sock 30 Slip-On Shoes $1,295 Oliver Peoples OV5189S Bernardo Sunglasses $408 Salvatore Ferragamo Reversible Pebbled Leather Belt $430 Montblanc Meisterstück Urban Single Gusset Leather Briefcase $1,480 Vehicle Drako GTE elevates the modern driver experience to an entirely new level. With a fully electric quad motor architecture, GTE generates a colossal 1,200 hp and 8,800 Nm of combined wheel torque for unrelenting acceleration up to a top speed of 206 mph. Each of GTE’s wheels are connected to an individual motor enabling unrivalled turning capability on any kind of road surface. The result is a driver focused supercar that delivers exhilarating performance with maximum control and safety—on road and track. View Drako GTE For Sale Watch Supercharged with classic Ulysse Nardin savoir-faire, BLAST is an avatar of its time, a potent force of nature. This technological wonder made with rock-hard, masculine lines has ignited a flame that will send seismic shockwaves through the watchmaking world to its core. Shop Now Top Developed by the Eton team over several decades, to become perfect. The intensity of the black color in this shirt is world-class. The style is modern, yet classic. It is the perfect party shirt, black is always the new black. Shop Now Crafted in TOM FORD's Italian atelier from a soft blend of mohair and silk, this 'Shelton' jacket has padded shoulders and a fitted waist to create a structured silhouette. Shop Now Bottom These Tom Ford trousers are impeccably tailored from mohair and silk-blend with a neat silhouette and waist tabs to adjust the fit. The hems are left unfinished so you can customize the length for the perfect break. Shop Now Footwear Inspired by the classic running sneaker, the Spike Sock Flat has become an iconic model by the Maison. This all-over black version features an upper with technical neoprene fabric, highlighted with a black matte leather trim. Shop Now Accessories With a passion for superior eyewear, Oliver Peoples crafts each frame with the finest materials and careful attention to detail. Every style is inspired and created in their West Hollywood studio with extreme attention to detail and focus on the sophistication and intellectual aesthetic that has made the brand iconic. Shop Now Inky black and classic brown double your wearing options in a reversible belt crafted from pebbled calfskin with a double-Gancio buckle cinching the front. Shop Now From the Meisterstück Urban Collection. Soft leather briefcase with a minimalist line offers a sleek commuter look. Shop Now

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By Jordan Aquistapace – September 22, 2020

Daniel Arsham Announces Release Date For An Eroded Porsch...

Daniel Arsham has announced the up in-coming release of his Eroded Porsche 930 Turbo Sculpture. The calcified relic is presented as a 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo, to which Daniel had just recently unveiled the rebuild of his very own. The sculpture is encased in a custom Arsham Studio designed housing with protectant foam to handle the work of art. Also included in the packaging is a set of white art handling gloves, to delicately transport the piece to its new desired showcase. The release is limited to 500 examples and will feature a holographic label indicating the edition number. This sculpture represents the bridge made between the automotive and art world, which is sure to hold its importance as a collector’s piece. Daniel Arsham’s Eroded Porsche 911 (930) Turbo will be available on September 25th at 12 noon ET through the his website. Keep up to date with the release by clicking the link below. Source: Daniel Arsham Visit Daniel Arsham Website

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 22, 2020

Ferrari Releases Amalgam Crafted Monza SP2 1:8 Scale Mode...

The Ferrari Monza SP2 is one of the most limited models to roll off the Maranello factory production line. While some of Ferrari’s best clientele and collectors have secured a chassis to configure, others are left to continue to dream of owning one. Ferrari has released a version of the Monza SP2 that can be taken home by anyone. A 1:8 scale model of the Italian supercar is available for both the owner with a Ferrari Monza SP2 in the collection, as well as all fans of Ferrari. The large-scale diecast is handcrafted meticulously to mimic the exact features that come on the real supercar, from the buttons located on the race-inspired steer wheel to the Ferrari patches stitched into the seatbelt harnesses. Functioning doors display the unique butterfly movement that presents the Rosso Corsa interior. The Ferrari Monza SP2 model is made in the Amalgam workshop using original vehicle designs, data, and materials. The model sits on an authentic carbon fiber stand enclosed with a dust-proof acrylic cover. Each model is delivered with a numbered certificate of authenticity kept in a leather case. The Ferrari Monza SP2 1:8 scale model is currently available for the price of $11,480. Shop Ferrari’s newest addition to collectibles by clicking the link below. Shop Ferrari Collectibles

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 21, 2020

Period Correct Launches Rothmans P.C. Collection Featurin...

The iconic Rothmans livery has made its appearance on some of the world’s most infamous racing vehicles throughout time. Whether it was an endurance race that went through the night or a rally through treacherous courses, a Rothmans car was sure to be on the grid. As a staple in automotive racing history, it’s no surprise that Period Correct has released a collection dedicated to the infamous team. The Rothmans P.C. Collection features the Porsche 956 as the inspiration behind some of the pieces created, each sporting a graphic design of the race car. The clothing line includes t-shirts, long sleeves, a sweater, a hoodie, and a classic nylon hat. All made from premium materials to provide comfort while subtly showing appreciation for a notorious competitor in the world of motorsports. The Period Correct Rothmans P.C. Collection is available through the company’s website. Shop all the collection has to offer by clicking the link below. Shop The Rothmans P.C. Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 21, 2020

The Lamborghini Store Hosts Huge Summer Sale

The Lamborghini web store is putting on a summer sale featuring styles that cover from head to toe, as well as a selection of accessories. Whether someone is trying to match their Aventador SVJ or looking comfortable options to support the brand, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Lamborghini’s clothing line reflects how their automobiles are constructed, using premium quality materials in an array of color options. The company also bases the clothing style designs off the intended use. Some pieces are more comfort-driven such as the Urus, where others are more inspired for a performance like the Huracan Evo. Color options that mirror Lamborghini paint codes and liveries are presented throughout the collection. Footwear is included in the summer sale event, all sporting the Lamborghini logo in both men and kids sizing available. For the track days, Lamborghini has it covered with a selection of accessories such as backpacks and hats. The summer sale is currently available through the Lamborghini Store website. Shop the summer sale collection by clicking the link below. Shop The Summer Sale

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