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 02, 2024

How To Buy: Lamborghini x Orlebar Brown's New Luxury Reso...

Shop the new Lamborghini x Orlebar Brown capsule collection featuring luxury swimwear and resort wear Automobili Lamborghini and Orlebar Brown have joined forces to introduce a new fuel-driven capsule collection that combines the worlds of Italian supercar design and trendy swimwear. The collaboration features a lineup of swim shorts, resort shirts, trousers, polos, t-shirts, and towels, all inspired by the specific details of Lamborghini's most iconic cars. The collection's design shows off signature hexagon patterns found on the Aventador SVJ's exhausts and vents, tastefully integrated into Orlebar Brown's tailored swim shorts and accessories. Available in vibrant colors and sophisticated dark tones, each piece offers a stylish option for supercar owners and enthusiasts. Lamborghini's newest collaboration aims to appeal to individuals who value thoughtful design, technical precision, and sustainability. With plans for the partnership to continue over the next three years, new collections are anticipated in the summers of 2025 and 2026. This initial launch offers an exclusive opportunity to experience a blend of Lamborghini's automotive luxury with Orlebar Brown's expertise in beach wear. Each item in the collection, from the tailored swim shorts to the chic resort shirts, reflects the meticulous attention to detail and passion for design shared by Lamborghini and Orlebar Brown. Shop the upcoming Lamborghini x Orlebar Brown Capsule Collection by clicking the link below. Shop The Lamborghini x Orlebar Brown Collection Source: Lamborghini

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 22, 2024

How To Buy: The All-New PUMA x Formula 1 Collection

PUMA and Formula 1 are excited to unveil their latest collection, tailored for fans and enthusiasts who live for the thrill of the race. The all-new line perfectly captures the exciting spirit of Formula 1 racing with futuristic graphics, useful detailing, and protective fabrics. Designed in both footwear and apparel, the collection guarantees fans can showcase their passion for motorsport in style. The new Formula 1 Collection is focused on celebrating the dynamic energy that defines F1. Each piece is crafted with fans in mind, offering fuel-inspired designs that can be worn from race day to everyday life. Bold patterns and sleek lines reflect the fast-paced nature of the sport, making this collection more of a tribute to the adrenaline and excitement that Formula 1 represents. Available at selected PUMA stores and online at puma.com, this high-octane collection invites fans to gear up and feel the rush. With its combination of style and functionality, the PUMA x F1 Collection is the perfect way for fans to connect with the sport they love. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of racing history. Shop all PUMA x Formula 1 collections by clicking the link below. Shop All PUMA x Formula 1 Our Top Picks Statement Motorsport Bomber Jacket Shop Now Statement Motorsport Graphic Tee Shop Now Statement Motorsport Graphic Hoodie Shop Now Leadcat 2.0 Slides Shop Now ESS Motorsport Logo Tee Shop Now Source: PUMA

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 16, 2024

Scotty Cameron's New All-Black Putter Collection Is Inspi...

Titleist has just announced the release of the new Scotty Cameron B3 Triple Black Design LTD putters, featuring a unique triple black color scheme inspired by convertible car culture. This special edition includes four of Scotty Cameron’s most popular blade designs, each finished in a stunning Tour Black. The lineup, available in select Titleist golf shops worldwide starting July 26th, includes the Newport 2, Newport 2 Long Neck, Santa Fe, and Catalina models. Golfers can look forward to a blend of classic setups, modern head shapes, and tour-inspired dual-milled face technology. The B3 Triple Black Design LTD putters are crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Each putter features a PVD-treated 303 stainless steel head, resulting in a dark, glare-reducing finish. The top line is manually misted, while the face and sole are hand-buffed before applying the Tour Black finish. The putters also come with a black Pistolini Plus grip and a premium embroidered headcover, adding a touch of luxury to the tour-approved putter. The chrome shaft is also finished in Tour Black. Golfers will appreciate the performance-balanced weighting of the B3 Triple Black Design LTD line. Each model features two customizable heel-toe sole weights, with stainless steel and tungsten options available to match different putter lengths. The dual-milled face technology offers a tour-inspired feel, combining the softness of deep-milled putters with the consistency and feedback of mid-milled designs. Priced at $750, these putters will be available at select Titleist-authorized golf shops while supplies last, making them a must-have for golf enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of style and performance. Shop all current Titleist Scotty Cameron putters by clicking the link below. Shop All Scotty Cameron Putters by Titleist Source: Scotty Cameron

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 03, 2024

Top Gear Picks to Celebrate the 4th of July in Style

As the 4th of July approaches, the excitement for backyard barbecues, fireworks, and festive gatherings is in the air. To help you elevate your celebrations, we've curated the ultimate 4th of July Gear Guide. Packed with American-themed products, our selection ensures that your weekend BBQ and festivities will be the place to be this summer. From patriotic décor to must-have grilling accessories, our gift guide covers everything you need to host an unforgettable Independence Day celebration. Imagine transforming your backyard into a red, white, and blue paradise with stylish décor that screams "USA!" Add in some top-notch grilling tools, and you'll be the BBQ master, impressing friends and family with perfectly cooked burgers and hot dogs. And let's not forget about those party essentials that will make your gathering stand out from the rest. At duPont REGISTRY, we pride ourselves on bringing you the best of the best, and our 4th of July Gear Guide is no exception. We've handpicked items that reflect the spirit of America and will make your holiday weekend truly special. So, whether you're planning a laid-back cookout or a lively party, our guide has everything you need to celebrate in style. Explore our carefully curated selection and get ready to make this Independence Day one for the books! duPont REGISTRY Subscription Buy Single Issue Subscribe 2022 Lamborghini Huracan STO View Monthly Payment 2023 Pardo 38 View Listing Seiko SKX009K1 Blue Dial Divers Watch Amazon Shop Now melin Coronado Americana Hydro melin Shop Now Traeger Pro Series 34 Pellet Grill Home Depot Shop Now YETI Tundra 45L Hard Cooler YETI Shop Now Omaha Steaks 4th of July Grill Pack Omaha Steaks Shop Now Ralph Lauren The Iconic Flag Sweater Ralph Lauren Shop Now EdgeStar KC2000 Full Size Kegerator Amazon Shop Now Pit Viper The Merika Original Sunglasses Amazon Shop Now Nike Air Max Sneakers Amazon Shop Now Bose SoundLink Color II: Portable Bluetooth Speaker Amazon Shop Now J.Crew x USA Swimming Camp-Collar shirt J.Crew Shop Now Bartesian Premium Cocktail and Margarita Machine Amazon Shop Now Big Green Egg 24 in. XLarge Charcoal Kamado Grill and Smoker ACE Hardware Shop Now Travis Matthew Five K Day Tee Travis Matthew Shop Now Williams Sonoma Stainless-Steel Handled BBQ Tool Set Williams Sonoma Shop Now REEF Fanning Sandals REEF Shop Now Pilotfish Premium Cotton Eyewear Retainer Sunglass Strap Amazon Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 01, 2024

RHUDE Teases A New Motorsport-Inspired Monaco Capsule Col...

Already establishing a fashionable position in the automotive space through creative collaborations with industry leaders like McLaren and Automobili Lamborghini, Rhude continues to fuel its future capsule collections with more motorsport-inspired themes. Instead of enlisting the help of a manufacturer for its newest endeavor, Rhude is proud to pay homage to one of the world's greatest race circuits by announcing its all-new Monaco Collection. Monaco's racing circuit is the crown jewel of Formula 1, showcasing tight turns and stunning views along the picturesque Mediterranean coastline. This historic venue isn't just a race; it's a bucket list experience for any car enthusiast or F1 fanatic, blending high-speed thrills with the luxury lifestyle of Monte Carlo. While a complete breakdown of the collection has yet to be shared with the public, Rhude has teased its upcoming release on its Instagram page with shots of a stylish new hat. The strap-back hat shows off a simplistic design decorated with Rhude racing logos. Along with a lineup of headwear, streetwear fans can also expect other head-to-toe pieces that commemorate Monaco and Rhude's close ties to all things automotive. Whether you're watching the Monaco GP from home or finally planning that dream trip to see the action in person, Rhude's upcoming Monaco Collection is sure to have you styled right to celebrate one of racing's most coveted locations. As we wait in anticipation for its July 5th drop, tune into duPont REGISTRY for more release information on the new Rhude Monaco Collection. Shop all current Rhude collections by clicking the link below. Shop All RHUDE Source: @rhude Instagram

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 27, 2024

McLaren Announces A New Denim Capsule Collection With Lev...

News of the fuel-driven fashion collab comes just ahead of the upcoming British GP. Formula 1 continues its global takeover with thrilling, action-packed races that have captivated a whole new generation of fans. Motorsport pioneers like McLaren are at the forefront of the popular race series, driving innovation and excitement in the sport and ensuring its place as the ultimate, fuel-driven entertainment spectacle. Alongside roads and racetracks, McLaren has made a monumental impact on the fashion runway through creative collaborations with the industry's biggest names. McLaren is proud to announce its newest upcoming lifestyle collection in partnership with the denim icons at Levi's and ERL by Eli Russell Linnetz, aiming to reimagine the look and feel of F1. The capsule collection's announcement comes as part of a teaser photoshoot organized at the McLaren Production Centre in the UK, where all the manufacturer's most coveted creations are preserved in the facility's museum. Standing alongside race cars driven by Bruce McLaren, the collection reveals head-to-toe, 80's-inspired styles that incorporate Levi's world-renowned denim and ERL's minimal streetwear vision. While product specifics and pricing have yet to be released, teaser shots unveil that the collection will feature pieces like one-piece denim mechanic suits and jackets with period-correct McLaren patches and logos. Ahead of its official upcoming launch, McLaren F1 team driver Lando Norris has already chosen the denim trucker jacket as his favorite collection piece. With more information to come, stay tuned into duPont REGISTRY for more updates on the new McLaren x Levi's x ERL Collection. Shop all current styles from McLaren and Levi's by clicking the links below. Shop All McLaren Gear Shop All Levi's Collections View this post on Instagram A post shared by Levi's (@levis) Source: McLaren x Levi's

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 26, 2024

Charles Leclerc Joins Forces With Bang & Olufsen As Its N...

F1 star Charles Leclerc partners with Bang & Olufsen, merging his love for sound and speed. When he's not threading his car through the chicanes and straights of an F1 circuit with Scuderia Ferrari HP, Charles Leclerc plays a different kind of keyboard. Beyond his reputation for agility and precision on the track, Leclerc is also a dedicated musician, finding comfort at the piano keys, where he composes and unwinds. Charles' new partnership with Bang & Olufsen naturally flows from this blend of high-speed professionalism and deep musical appreciation, offering him the perfect soundtrack to satisfy his dual passions. Bang & Olufsen Leclerc talks about his life in terms of performance, both on the asphalt and in musical experiences. "Driving high-performance cars is about understanding the smallest details, including their sound," he says, noting similarities between his professional racing challenges and his personal quest for musical perfection. His appreciation for Bang & Olufsen originates from its meticulous attention to detail, as the brand's sound systems transform his listening experiences. For Bang & Olufsen, bringing Leclerc into the fold is about more than just adding a celebrity to their roster. Kristian Teär, CEO of the company, sees it as an alignment of values. Both celebrate the finer details that enhance performance, whether it's the exhaust note of an F1 engine or the elegance of a symphony. As they tune into this new chapter, Leclerc's role with Bang & Olufsen is set to drive forward a community where passion for quality sound meets the thrill of speed. Shop all current Bang & Olufsen collections by clicking the link below. Shop All Bang & Olufsen Our Top Picks BEOSOUND A5 Shop Now BEOPLAY EX FERRARI EDITION Shop Now BEOVISION CONTOUR Shop Now BEOSOUND STAGE Shop Now BEOPLAY HX Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 25, 2024

Lebron James & Lil Wayne Unveil The New Wireless Beats by...

The Beats Pill is back! The iconic Beats Pill portable speaker is back and better than ever, making its grand re-introduction alongside NBA Allstar Lebron James and music mogul Lil Wayne. Completely re-engineered, the new Beats Pill features powerful, room-filling audio with upgraded acoustic architecture, delivering more bass and improved tonality. The redesigned racetrack woofer ensures minimal low-end distortion even at high volumes, while the new tweeter provides crisp highs and rich mid-range tones. All this sound excellence is packed into a device that's 10% lighter than its predecessor, making it the perfect companion for any on-the-go action. Beats by Dre One of the standout features of the new Beats Pill is its impressive 24-hour battery life, allowing listeners to enjoy continuous playback from morning to night. The addition of USB-C audio and charging, along with IP67 dust and water resistance, guarantees the speaker is not only versatile but also incredibly durable. Whether you're hosting a party or relaxing at home, the Beats Pill's Class 1 Bluetooth connectivity guarantees fewer dropouts and extended range, while the intuitive on-device controls make it easy to manage music, take calls, and activate your voice assistant. Beats by Dre The new Beats Pill turns heads while delivering exceptional performance, available in three sleek colors (Matte Black, Statement Red, and Champagne Gold). Whether you're syncing two speakers for a surround sound experience or using it as a speakerphone with advanced noise suppression, the Beats Pill is designed to meet all your audio needs. With the new Beats Pill officially launching on June 27th, shop all current Beats by Dre products by clicking the link below. Shop All Beats by Dre Beats by Dre Source: Beats by Dre

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 17, 2024

How To Buy: Period Correct's New 24H Le Mans Collection

The race of all motorsport races. Le Mans is a legendary name in the motorsport world. Its a 24-hour marathon dripping with history and nostalgia, shaping the legacies of iconic car manufacturers like Ferrari, Porsche, and Audi. Every June, the roar of engines and the cheers of fans echo throughout France, reminding us of the legendary drivers and unforgettable moments that have defined the race. As we celebrate another monumental race and congratulate Ferrari on its second consecutive Le Mans victory, the team at Period Correct is proud to commemorate motorsport's most iconic race with the launch of its new 24H Le Mans Collection. Head-to-toe styles and accessories preserve the earliest years of Le Mans racing with period-correct graphics, logos, and fonts. The collection includes jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and hats. For accessories, the lineup features woven blankets, a tote bag, a suede valet tray, key chains, and ear plugs. Whether you're a forever fan who tunes for every year's race or are finally making the trip to cross Le Mans off your bucket list, celebrate the world's oldest active endurance sports car race with Period Correct's all-new 24H Le Mans Collection. Shop The 24H Le Mans Collection Source: Period Correct

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 17, 2024

How To Buy: PUMA x Scuderia Ferrari HP's Carlos Sainz Bar...

Celebrate Carlos Sainz with PUMA's Barcelona special edition hat. PUMA and Scuderia Ferrari HP have teamed up to launch the Carlos Sainz Barcelona Special Edition Cap as teams and race fans prep for the upcoming 2024 Aramco Spanish GP at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The exclusive cap pays tribute to Spanish Scuderia Ferrari HP driver Carlos Sainz with a design inspired by his rich heritage and Barcelona's iconic charm. The all-white hat features a chili pepper design, a nod to Sainz's spirited personality, and a signature symbol associated with him. The front of the hat features the Carlos Sainz logo, signifying the strong partnership between PUMA, Scuderia Ferrari HP, and Sainz. With unique design elements reflecting Barcelona's cultural flair, PUMA's new release stands out as a fashionable tribute to both the city and the sport. Perfect for Formula 1 race fans, the PUMA for Scuderia Ferrari Carlos Sainz Barcelona Special Edition Cap is now available. Shop all current PUMA x Scuderia Ferrari HP Collections by clicking the link below. Shop Now Source: PUMA

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