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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 – June 01, 2021

LEGO McLaren Elva Set Revealed

It even has its own little Active Air Management System (AAMS) vents. Looking to kill some time? Maybe it's time you picked up the new LEGO Speed Champions McLaren Set and spent some time clicking bricks. This new 263-piece set measures 1.5-inches tall, 6-inches long, and 3-inches wide, making it a perfect fit for any desk or shelf. Just like the real Elva, it features two seats, no windshield, and even a little vent area for the Active Air Management System (AAMS). Coming with the Elva is a minifigure that was inspired by Rachel Brown, McLaren Automotive's Principal Development Engineer for the Ultimate Series. Rachel has worked on the Elva, Senna GTR and even helped support the creation of the LEGO Technic McLaren Senna GTR set. You can purchase the McLaren Elva set right now online for just $19.99. Shop it now by clicking the button below. Shop On LEGO.com Source: McLaren Automotive

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 28, 2021

ICON 4X4 Announces Custom Bag Auction To Support The Go C...

A chance to buy a one-of-a-kind example, while supporting a great cause. With the past year being an unfortunate situation for all, it's refreshing to see people lending a helping hand. The automotive industry is continuing to do its part, as brands focus resources towards creating a healthier and safer environment for all. ICON 4x4 is proud to announce that they will be auctioning off a custom version of the popular GTFO Bag, with proceeds benefiting the Go Campaign. In the most recent ICON 4x4 Instagram post, the brand explains its close ties to the children’s charity which is dedicated to helping build a better future for vulnerable children around the world. The luxury hand-crafted GTFO Bag was created in partnership with Orion Calf and Fiorito Leathers to create the one-of-a-kind example. This bag is crafted in Excelsior leather, the most environmentally responsible leather available, tanned with materials that fall from the tree. The auction for the ICON 4x4 x Orion Calf x Fiorito Leathers GTFO Bag to benefit the Go Campaign is currently live, click the link below to bid and support the cause. View Auction https://www.instagram.com/p/CPZGzpOhpWy/ For more News, Check out The Top 10 Watches To Start Your Watch Collection

By Edward Jones – May 28, 2021

New LEGO SRT Challenger and Dragster Set Revealed

Put some MOPAR on your desk. LEGO and Dodge have revealed the new Speed Champions Mopar Dodge//SRT Top Fuel Dragster and 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A building set. This set introduces the very first purple vehicle and first Top Fuel Dragster in the Speed Champion series, making it a hot ticket for fans of building LEGO sets and everything MOPAR. In total, there are 627 pieces in the set for both cars. The dragster measures in at four inches tall, 13.5 inches long and 2.4 inches wide. The Challenger has a height of over two inches, length of five inches and is 2.5 inches wide. “Owning, or aspiring to own, a Dodge muscle car is as much about the lifestyle of joining the Brotherhood of Muscle as it is about the vehicle purchase,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge Brand Chief Executive Officer – Stellantis. “As a result, our brand enthusiasts are passionate about all things Dodge, including the latest cool collectibles. So, following the success of the Dodge 2018 LEGO Speed Champion building set, fans will now be able to build and show off not only the first ever 8-inch-wide (8W) muscle car, but also the first ever Plum Crazy 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A, along with an incredibly detailed 13½-long Top Fuel Dragster.” The set is releasing on June 1 with a price of $49.99. It can be purchased from LEGO.com. Shop Now Photo Credit: LEGO Source: Stellantis

By Edward Jones – May 26, 2021

How to Buy: LEGO Koenigsegg Jesko

Those wanting to own a Koenigsegg Jesko but can't afford to drop the assumed seven-figure price tag, I have great news for you. You can now buy a Jesko for a fraction of the price, but you'll have to put it together yourself and you can't drive it. The new Koenigsegg Jesko LEGO set has been announced for June 1 and it comes with a price tag of just $19.99. It features a white exterior with vibrant green details and even a hint of Swedish flair. It measures 6 inches long and is comprised of 280 pieces. Joining the hypercar is a mini Koenigsegg driver minifigure, a safety helmet and wrench, and a second wheel design that can be placed on the wheels. When: June 1, 2021 Where: Online, Retail Stores Price: $19.99 Source: LEGO.com

By Edward Jones – May 20, 2021

Porsche Design Reveals New "The Contour" Sunglasses

Limited to under 1000 pieces. Are you a fan of Porsche that's looking for a new pair of shades? Look no further as Porsche Design as just unveiled the new P’8924 B sunglasses, also known as "The Contour." These sunglasses have lens borders crafted from milled solid aluminum and have an outline made from titanium wire. Porsche Design notes that these sunglasses appear to have been "drawn in one bold and sweeping stroke," and we have to agree. Porsche Design is launching The Contour sunglasses in two variants: palladium with olive-colored lenses and black with gold-colored lens edging and blue-black lenses. Both variants are limited to just 911 pieces each. As far as price goes, each come with a $1,200 price tag. To shop these limited edition Porsche Design sunglasses, be sure to click the button below. Shop Now Source: Porsche Design

By Edward Jones – May 20, 2021

How To Buy: Porsche x Aimé Leon Dore ALD 911SC Capsule C...

The ultimate fashion collection for Porsche fans is here. New York City fashion brand Aimé Leon Dore has finally shown off pieces in their upcoming LD 911SC Capsule Collection, which was created in collaboration with Porsche. The images were uploaded to their Instagram page they include jackets, sweaters, hoodies, and t-shirts, all in either black, purple or a dark yellow tone. Adorning most of the pieces is an "Aimé Leon Dore Super Carrera" badge, but there are a couple of pieces that feature a beautiful street scene of a Porsche. Aside from the pieces being revealed, Aimé Leon Dore also announced the release date for the collection as well as how to pick them up. You can either pick them up at the Mulberry Flagship in Soho, New York today or online tomorrow. When: Varies Where: Online (5/21/2021) and at the Mulberry Flagship (5/20/21 11am EST) Price: N/A Source: Aimé Leon Dore/Instagram

By Edward Jones – May 19, 2021

Formula 1 Cars Are Coming to Rocket League

It's okay to spin in these F1 cars. Formula 1 fans who happen to be gamers, it's time to get excited your favorite race cars will now be able to score goals in Rocket League. The new Formula 1 Fan Pack in Rocket League is set to release on May 20th and it comes with the following: Formula 1 2021 Car Alfa Romeo 2021 Decal AlphaTauri 2021 Decal Alpine 2021 Decal Aston Martin 2021 Decal Ferrari 2021 Decal Haas 2021 Decal McLaren 2021 Decal Mercedes-AMG Petronas 2021 Decal Red Bull 2021 Decal Williams 2021 Decal Pirelli Wheels That's all 10 teams and even new Pirelli wheels for your car, but don't count on being able to swap for soft, medium, or hard tires. Rocket League will also be releasing a Formula 1 Player Banner in the Item Shop for free on May 20th. Shop Rocket League for Xbox Source: " title="YouTube video" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen>

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 18, 2021

Discover Callum Designs' Automotive-Inspired Luxury Loung...

Bring luxury automotive comfort to your home. Day by day, the automotive world continues to influence the inspiration behind luxury products that are less seen on the track, and more commonly viewed in a household setting. Ian Callum is now taking that approach after contributing to the design process for Jaguar, Land Rover, and Aston Martin. Callum Designs is proud to announce its entrance into high-furniture with the new Callum Lounge Chair. The chair is anything but ordinary as it follows a similar production process as some of the luxury vehicles designed by Ian Callum. Its use of premium materials like genuine leather and carbon fiber help transition the luxury feel of the sport seat for any home office or living room. The minimalistic design and vibrant color of the Callum Lounge Chair make the perfect modern addition to any setting. The Callum Lounge Chair is available for inquiry through the Callum Design website. For more Lifestyle news, Check out EveryDrive Carry: Apocalypse 6×6 Accessories

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 18, 2021

Brumos Racing Releases 'An American Racing Icon' Box Set ...

Relive the automotive motorsport history of Brumos Racing. In the world of motorsports, Brumos Racing continues to fuel the adrenaline for racing fans as a pioneer and leader since the earliest day of the 20th Century. With so many success stories and industry milestones throughout time, it’s only right to document the iconic motorsport brand. Brumos Racing is proud to announce the release of a special three-volume box set titled ‘Brumos: An American Racing Icon’. Documented through 1,500 pages of high-resolution images and information sourced from industry leaders, the series is broken doing into three publications highlighting The Brundage Era, The Peter Gregg Era, and 1980 Through 2020. The material also features prologues from automotive icons like Roger Penske and Patrick Dempsey. Along with the box set, Brumos Racing included a Numbered Collector’s Edition and an Ultimate Collectors Edition, which both include additional volumes, as well as commemorative accessories to compliment the collection. The new Brumos: An American Racing Icon box set collection is currently available starting at $559.59 by clicking the link below for more information. Shop Now Media/Information Source: Brumos Racing For more Gear news, Check out The Top Porsche-Inspired PUMA Motorsport Footwear Available Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 17, 2021

The New McLaren x Gulf Apparel Collection Is Available Now

Two infamous motorsport brands come together as one. With the iconic 2021 Monaco Grand Prix right around the corner, the team at McLaren F1 recently unveiled its new look featuring its historic partnership with Gulf Oil International. We continue to see the cars and drivers decked out in the infamous Gulf livery colors through posts on Instagram. The one question all fans and enthusiasts had was when the same gear would be offered to the public? McLaren x Gulf Oil International is proud to announce the release of the 2021 Collection featuring apparel and accessories to show support during one of the most iconic races in F1 history. The lineup includes outerwear, polos, t-shirts, and hats all sporting a combination of logos from the leaders in motorsports. The styles commonly seen on drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Lando Norris are now available for fans to cheer on both McLaren race cars to victory. Made from premium materials, the performance-focused products add comfort and functionality to ensure the perfect wear during all races. The new Mclaren x Gulf Oil International apparel collection is currently available by clicking the link below for more information. View the Best Gulf Livery Cars Shop Now Media/Information Source: McLaren For more Gear news, Check out EveryDrive Carry: Apocalypse 6×6 Accessories

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