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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 – August 28, 2020

Ulysse Nardin Launches the New Blast Watch

Ulysse Nardin has unveiled the Blast model as the latest introduction to their lineup. This new watch was inspired by the forces of nature like glaciers and eruptions of magma, and modeled after stealth jet fighters. Buy Now Buy Now Buy Now Buy Now The first thing you'll notice about this watch is the amount of transparency is offers. The open-worked body is made possible thanks to the UN-172 movement with the new automatic silicium tourbillon and a three-day power reserve. This movement is housed in an X-shaped cage, similar to the "X" design found in the Diver X, Freak X and Skeleton X. Resting above the X cage is a rectangular frame, a design cue found in many other Ulysse Nardin watches. At the 12 o'clock, the barrel is seen, while the flying tourbillon rests at the 6 o'clock. The Blast model was designed after the sharp lines found on stealth jets. Ulysse Nardin actually reworked their signature three-horned strap fixture to have a geometric design that mirrors the wings of a stealth aircraft. " width="680"> Ulysse Nardin is releasing the Blast watch with three different models: Blue Blast ($44,000), Black Blast ($46,000), White Blast ($46,000) and Rose Gold Blast ($54,000). Each comes in the same 45 mm diameter but don different colorways that were inspired by the elements. You can learn more about this new and incredible Ulysse Nardin watch by clicking the button below. Visit Ulysse-Nardin.com

By Edward Jones – August 27, 2020

Sanuk and Airstream Team Up for New Footwear Collection

Airstream has been creating travel trailers for decades. In fact, the Airstream has almost been around for an entire century. Because of this, the Airstream trailer has been synonymous with travel and adventure, and they're are undoubtedly the most recognizable travel trailers out there. This is why Sanuk and Airstream have teamed up for a collection of footwear that's perfect for a road trip. The footwear in the collection for both men and women, and includes sandals, yoga slings and shoes. Being Sanuks, you know that each pair will be extra comfortable on the feet, no matter where your adventure takes you. On the footwear, you can find small embroidered Airstream trailer patches, a flamingo or rivet details. You can shop the entire collection by clicking the button below. Shop Now Source: Airstreamsupplycompany.com

By Edward Jones – August 27, 2020

Breitling Debuts the New Endurance Pro Watch

Breitling has just launched a new watch that's designed with everyday athletes in mind. Introducing the new Breitling Endurance Pro. As part of the brand's Professional range, this sporty watch is a lightweight way for athletes and sports enthusiasts to enjoy Breitling's timekeeping excellence on the go. The Endurance Pro's Breitlight case measures in at 44mm. Breitlight is Breitling's proprietary material that's 3.3 times lighter than titanium and 5.8 times lighter than stainless steel. What's more, it's durable, being very resistant to scratches, traction and corrosion. Inside this case is the Breitling Caliber 82 with SuperQuarts tech, which is ten times more accurate than your typical quartz. On the dial, you can find the 1/10th second and 30-minute chronograph counters that Breitling has ensured are easy to read, even when you're on the run. Breitling is launching the Endurance Pro in five different color variations, each with a black dial and black bidirectional rotating bezel. The colors include white, blue, yellow, orange and red. Each comes with a matching Diver Pro strap and a price of $3,000. For more information and to shop these watches, be sure to click the button below. Shop Now

By Edward Jones – August 24, 2020

William Murray x Phat Scooters Are the Perfect Golf Cours...

Are you heading out to golf soon? You're probably going to ride on a golf cart, aren't you? How about you change it up at the golf course and ride on one of the new William Murray x Phat Scooters. These scooters are the result of a collaboration between the William Murray Golf and Phat Scooters. If you didn't know William Murray Golf was founded by Bill Murray and his five brothers. For those who want to just cruise, there's the WMG x Phat Sport Scooter which features an electric power source, front suspension, comfortable seat and an LED headlight. When it comes to kicking the golf cart to the curb, you can replace that four-wheeler with the two-wheeled WMG x Phat Golf Scooter. This scooter features front and rear suspension, a 600 w Boss Audio Speaker setup, a drink holder, cooler and golf bag rack. It has everything you'd need for a day on the golf course and you don't have to share a seat with anyone! Check it out by clicking the button below. Shop Now WMG / PHAT GOLF SCOOTER WMG / PHAT SPORT SCOOTER Source: WilliamMurrayGolf.com via HypeBeast.com

By Edward Jones – August 21, 2020

Puma Motorsport Drops New Mercedes-AMG Petronas Sneakers

Mercedes-AMG Petronas fans rejoice, as Puma Motorsport has just released two new sneakers for you. These include the Mercedes-AMG Petronas RS-X³ and Mercedes-AMG Petronas LQDCELL Extol sneakers. Each feature pearl, black, teal/green and purple in some way, with one being primarily pearl and the other black. Each also offer up different designs, with the RS-X³ sneakers having an overall more" chunky" appearance. You can shop these shoes now on Puma.com. The RS-X³ sneaker comes with a price of $100 while the LQDCELL Extol sneakers come in at $110. Click the button to see them now. Shop Now

By Edward Jones – August 20, 2020

Wild Street Fighter Edition Seiko Watches Revealed

For decades, people have been both wearing the Seiko 5 Sports watch and also beating each other up in Street Fighter video games. While the two don't really go hand in hand, I'm sure someone at some point in time checked their 5 Sports watch to see if it was time to load the game up or head to the arcade. Why I bring this up is because Seiko has teamed up with Street Fighter to create a new line of 5 Sports watches that honor some of the most popular fighters in the franchise. These include Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li, Guile, Zangief and Blanka. Each of these fighters is represented by a special edition of the 5 Sports watch that feature designs inspired by them. For example, Blanka's watch is an electric green color with a bezel showing signs of crackling lightning. You can check them all out in the gallery below. If you're interested, they will be on sale this September and limited to 9,999 examples each. Shop Seiko Watches

By Edward Jones – August 19, 2020

Omologato Announces the New Heritage Racing Special Watch

Omologato's knack for paying tribute to motorsport history through watches is flawless. If you take just a quick look at their collection, you'll see exactly what I'm talking about. Their latest watch to honor the history of racing is the new Heritage Racing Special. This new watch dons a black and gold color scheme, which mimics the iconic John Player Special livery Lotus Formula 1 car. Altogether, this watch creates a stunning visual that's just as cool as the race car itself. What's more, this 42 mm stainless steel watch is powered by the precise Miyota Chronograph and won't skip a beat. Paired with the watch is a NATO polyester band that dons the same gold and black color scheme. The Omologato Heritage Racing Special watch will be available on November 15th, 2020 for $514.49 but you can pre-order yours by clicking the link below. Shop Now Gallery Images via Lotus Cars

By Edward Jones – August 19, 2020

Add the New Lamborghini Sian Model To Your Collection

The Lamborghini Sian FKP 37 may be difficult to acquire, but this model sure isn't. For sale now on the Lamborghini's online store is a beautiful 1:43 scale model of the Sian FKP 37. made by Looksmart. To create the model, Looksmart teamed up with Centro Stile Lamborghini to ensure that no detail was overlooked. From the carbon fiber trim, to the dashboard, this is as authentic as a little Lamborghini can get. What's more, it's finished in the same GEA green found on the example unveiled at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor show. You can purchase it now for $202. Click the button below to see shop now. Shop Now

By Edward Jones – August 19, 2020

Hublot Debuts the new Spirit of Big Bang Green Saxem

Hublot's ever-popular Spirit of Big Bang now has a new model that will leave you green with envy when you spot someone else wearing it. Why? because it's green, of course, and it's magnificent. Introducing, the new Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Green Saxem. To achieve the green color for the case, Hublot mixed aluminum oxide with rare-earth element. Matching the green of the case is the rubber strap, indexes, hands and logo at the 12 o'clock. At the heart of this watch is the HUB4700 caliber. This chronograph has a completely skeletonized movement and is incredibly precise. If you're interested, it comes with a price tag of $116,000. For more information, be sure to click the button below to visit Hublot.com. Learn More " width="680">

By Edward Jones – August 18, 2020

Greubel Forsey Debuts the New Balancier S

Greubel Forsey is known for their complications and intricate movements, but their latest release is one that aims for simplicity while maintaining the watchmaker's complex design. The new Balancier S is a sporty watch that may deceive eyes at first. With a curved designed, the arched sapphire bends itself over the case, creating a stunning visual. Underneath crystal is an angular dial that offers up a glimpse at the 30-degree inclined balance wheel system at the 7 o'clock. The dial also has a power reserve display, which maxes out at 72 hours. Greubel Forsey has also engineered this watch in a way that it's water-resistant up to 100 meters. This is partially made possible through the caseback that's partially exposed. As for the material used to create the Balancier S, GF went with titanium for style and rigidity. While the new Balancier S may not appear to be as complex as other Greubel Forsey timepieces, it's sportiness combined with a truly unique design make it a stunner in the world of horology. For more information, be sure to click the button below. Learn More Source: GreubelForsey.com

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