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

Jaguar News

Jaguar news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated as each story breaks. We cover the brand's electric relaunch alongside the models that established its name, from the F-TYPE to the I-PACE. Our reporting takes in reveals, first drives, design developments and the auction results that shape collector values. Jaguar is midway through a complete reinvention, and we follow each decision as it is confirmed. The marketplace adds something most publications cannot offer. Jaguars covered here are frequently listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, so the reporting and a genuine asking price appear together. For Jaguar news today, and the luxury car news and sports car news around it, begin below.

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 05, 2021

This Collector-Grade 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 Is Headed To Auct...

A chance to own a pristine piece of Jaguar motorsport history at Monterey Car Week 2021. Jaguar is known for its rich heritage in motorsports, with collectible examples becoming more desirable each day by collectors and enthusiasts. The 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 is one of those ‘must-have’ additions for a collection, as it stands tall against competitors from that era including the McLaren F1, Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR, and Porsche GT1. RM Sotheby’s is proud to offer a pristine XJR-15 example during the Monterey Car Week auction. This example, chassis number 028, is one of the 27 cars to have been built for the road. Completed in 1991, the XJR-15 is finished in blue over a gray interior. The odometer displayed a mere 78 miles at the time of cataloging. It was imported into Japan when new and delivered to a prolific supercar collector. Chassis 028 was appreciated by its owner from a standstill, which explains the very low mileage and outstanding preservation, which is presented as the day it left the Jaguar Sport factory. Imported into the United States in September 2019, chassis 028 is a highly original example of the model. With the weave of its’ carbon body panels readily visible in the paint, its carbon-fiber tub proudly on display below the windscreen, and its original three-piece OZ racing wheels, the exterior delights the senses and indicates the car’s astounding performance. The spirit of the exterior carries to the interior, where the car’s carbon fiber construction techniques are instantly apparent. Chassis number 028 features gray leather racing bucket seats, complete with intercom radio for race communications. Various Jaguar Sport and Tom Walkinshaw Racing logos on pieces of trim around the car give reminders of the XJR’s unique development. In 2021, this Jaguar XJR-15 received an extensive recommissioning from a model expert in the United States, records of which are available on file. One of just 27 road cars built, this low-mileage and impeccably presented example, benefitting from a recommissioning in 2021, is sure to be treasured by any discerning supercar or Jaguar collector. View 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 Listing Media/Information Source: RM Sothebys

By Edward Jones – July 14, 2021

Jaguar E-Type Price, Specs, Photos, & Review

The Jaguar E-Type is a British sports car produced by Jaguar Cars Ltd. The Jaguar E-Type price, its beauty, and high performance are some of the things that made it stand out from the crowd. This car features a fantastic build and quality engine. With the numerous Jaguar E-Type for sale out there, you can get a great deal for this amazing car. Source: Jaguar The Jaguar E-Type has different models, including the Jaguar E-Type roadster & E-Type Coupe. The value of each model is slightly different. If you are shopping for a new Jaguar E-Type, make sure you check the Jaguar E-Type price guide to know the MSRP and how much you can get this lovely car for. The Jaguar E-Type has three series – Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3, which we will talk about in the latter part of this guide. These three different series come with different price tags, which is why there are different Jaguar E-Type price ranges out there. The value of the car is affected by several factors such as the bodywork, mechanics, how it has been cared for, as well as the particular model you want to purchase. Typically, the Jaguar E-Type price can range from $55,000 to $280,000 depending on the model, condition, and customization of the car. ©JDHT via Jaguar Jaguar E-Type Review The Jaguar E-Type is literally a work of art. This car has been in production from 1961-1975, and you will be right to call it the most beautiful car of all time. The bullet-like shape and sleek design of this car make it one of the most imitated and influential cars in sports car design. Enzo Ferrari said the 1961 Jaguar E-Type was the most beautiful car of all time when he first saw it at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show. The Jaguar XK-E was a marvel of aerodynamic engineering, thanks to Malcolm Sayer (former aeronautics engineer. The Jaguar E-Type Coupe version is the most beautiful model amongst them all. The performance of the car is also exceptional, as it was designed for speed. The car also features an all-around independent suspension that provides drivers with a super smooth driving experience. Being a sports car, the Jaguar XK-E features a lightweight design. It was designed with racing in mind, and the lightweight allows drivers to attain great speed. ©JDHT via Jaguar Series 1 1961-1968 The Jaguar E-Type Series 1 was introduced in 1961, and it was initially for export only. However, they launched the option for the domestic market four months later. At its launch, it was using the triple SU carbureted 3.8L Inline-6 engine. The earlier models had a flat design, and they came with external bonnet latches that you need a tool to open. Jaguar later increased the engine from 3.8L Inline-6 to 4.8L Inline-6 in October 1964. The 4.8L Inline-6 engine was as powerful as the 3.8-liter engine. The speed was also the same, while the torque increased by about 10 percent. Series 2 1968-1971 The Jaguar Series 2 came with many changes and improvements to Series 1. One of the most notable changes in the Series 2 is the absence of glass headlight covers. Other distinctive changes of this series are its larger front indicators, rear bumper, and the repositioning of the tail light below the bumpers. The Jaguar Series 2 also came with an enlarged grille and dual electric fans for enhanced cooling. This model came with the 4.2L Inline-6 engine, which delivers exceptional performance and power. The torque was reduced from 283 to 263 and the horsepower from 265 to 246.Series 3 1971-1974 Jaguar introduced the Series 3 in 1971. This model came with a new, more powerful engine – 5.3L V12. It came with other distinctive features such as a standard power steering and uprated brakes. Air conditioning, wire wheels, and automatic transmission were available but optional.The 5.3L V12 engine came with four Zenith carburetors that produced more torque and 272 hp. The Series 3 only comes in a convertible form and 2+2 coupe. This model comes with a large cross-slatted front grille that makes it easily identifiable. It also has four exhaust tips, wider tires, and flared wheel arches. Source: Jaguar Jaguar E-Type Specs When the Jaguar E-Type was launched back in 1961, many people were amazed by the Jaguar E-Type specs, design, and performance. The car attracted the attention of many all over the world, thanks to its impressive handling, groundbreaking performance, and sleek bodywork. The Jaguar E-Type has three different models – the Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 with 3.8L, 4.2L, and V12 engine, respectively. The Jaguar E-Type top speed is 150 mph. Interestingly, the 3.8L Inline-6 and 4.2L Inline-6 models can go as fast as 153 mph and 151 mph, respectively. The Jaguar E-Type 0-60 is between 6.3 – 8.0 seconds. The Series 1 with a 3.8-liter engine can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. The Series 2 with a 4.2-liter engine can go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds, and the Series 3 with a 5.3L V12 engine can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. The fuel consumption of this car is also great, as the Series 1 consumes 18 mpg, the Series consumes 17 mpg, and the Series 3 consumes 16 mpg. The Series 1 is 5ft 5in wide, 14ft. 7in. long, and weighs 2,702 pounds. The Series 2 is 5ft. 5in. wide, 14ft. 7in. (15ft. 4in. 2+2) long, and weighs 2,890 pounds while the 2+2 weighs 3,090 pounds. The Series is 5ft. 6in. wide, 15ft. 5in. long, and weighs 3,308 pounds. The E-Type ¼ mile is between 14.5 – 16.1. The Jaguar E-Type horsepower is 265 for Series 1 & 2, while that of the Series 3 is 272. Source: Jaguar Jaguar E-Type Engine The Jaguar E-Type engine delivers impressive performance. This car has three models, and they all come with different variations of engines. The Jaguar E-Type Series 1 has a 3.8L Inline-engine, which was later upgraded to a 4.2 Inline-6 engine. The Series 1 has a 6-cylinder 3781cc DOHC engine with a power rating of 265 bhp @ 5500 RPM. The torque of the Series 1 is 260lb-ft. @ 4000 RPM, and it comes with a 4-speed manual gearbox. The Series 2 features a 6-cylinder 4235cc DOHC engine with a power rating of 256 bhp @ 5,400 RPM. The torque of the Series 2 is 283lb-ft. @ 4,000 RPM. The Series 3 features a V12 cylinder with a displacement of a 5,343cc DOHC engine (E-Type V12). The power rating of this engine is 272 bhp @ 5,850 RPM, while the torque is 304lb-ft. @ 3,600 RPM. Source: Jaguar Jaguar E-Type Standout Features From the beginning, the Jaguar E-Type has always stood out because of its elegant design. It features a long curved front bonnet, which takes up about 40 percent of the entire body of the car. The aerodynamic length and curved front of this car give sit a futuristic design. This car also features a lightweight design, as it was designed with racing in mind. Jaguar also introduced the lightweight E-Type back in 2014 – it is the resurrected version of the Jaguar E-Type series.Other standout features of this car include E-Type 15 × 6K wire or solid wheels, elegant design, unique suspension, advanced braking system & wheels, unique interior, and more. The Jaguar E-Type project car is the favorite of many celebrities back then. Some of the celebrities that owned this car include Roy Orbison, Frank Sinatra, Brigitte Bardot, George Best, and more. Wrapping Up The Jaguar E-Type was a success, thanks to Malcolm Sayer. Malcolm Sayer, who had a background in aeronautical and aerodynamic design, designed the Jaguar E-Type. It was one of the best sports cars in the early 60s and beyond. This car stood out for many reasons, including its design, beauty, performance, and more. Jaguar E-Types For Sale Source: Jaguar

By Andrew Nabors – April 23, 2021

2021 Jaguar F-Pace SVR Supercharged Driven by Carfection

Henry + Boost = Fun Mr. Catchpole has a way with words, especially when it comes to English luxury. So grab a snack and let's watch him extol the virtues of the latest Jaguar F-Pace. Sharing the same chassis as the Land Rover Velar, it offers 550 horsepower at all wheels from their supercharged V8. Having the same firing order as big-block Buicks, it also sounds quite aggressive when provoked. It makes 516 lbs of torque (at all wheels) from idle to 5,000 rpm, so a foot-braked launch is truly impressive. Our dealers have great leasing options on them, so click the button to find your new Jaguar. Browse New Jaguar F-Pace SVR For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 21, 2021

Unlock Adventure With Your Jaguar/Land Rover Activity Key

Why cant all cars have this? Every day our world gets more interconnected. Fiddling around looking for your key fob or losing the fob during your commute can be stressful unless you have a newer Jaguar or Land Rover. The activity Key is more than just a stylish timepiece. It is your ticket to a great car or SUV, so imagine yourself with the top down in a supercharged V8 AWD F-Type SVR. Or fording a decent stream in 4LO with 518 horsepower screaming from your Long Wheelbase Range Rover Autobiography. Their supercharged V6 models (known as P400) and electric I-Pace are also very hot, so click the button to learn more from our dealers! Shop Jaguar Shop Land Rover Image (C) Jaguar Land Rover

By Andrew Nabors – April 20, 2021

2022 Jaguar I-Pace Black Price & Specs Revealed

Electric luxury doesn't have to be boring For those that appreciate the finer points of British motoring, the 2022 Jaguar I-Pace Black price and specs have been revealed. This sleek crossover arrived in 2018, and now they are seeing competitors finally catching up. To set this kitty apart from all the others, gloss black trim and ebony leather can be found everywhere. With a range of 292 miles, you will have 400 horsepower and 613 lb-ft of torque from a 90 kW system. Pricing starts at £72,445 or $100,992. Not a bad deal to never stop for gas again, so tell if your favorite Jaguar in the comments below and stay with us for more great news. Shop Jaguar Images (C) Jaguar Land Rover

By Andrew Nabors – March 29, 2021

2021 Jaguar XF Updates Make it Irresistible

Their latest series highlights the details you might've missed We were sad to see the end of the big Jaguar flagship. But now that the XJ has gone to Valhalla, the 2021 Jaguar XF updates make it irresistible. Starting with strength, the body shell has more welds to improve stiffness. Styling has been enhanced with more prominent intakes and a functional rear diffuser. LED pixel lighting is a welcomed sight. Everything inside is all-new. The most prominent feature is the new massive touchscreen. It uses their PiviPro software to integrate all systems. Individual configurations for suspension, transmission, and throttle response allow you to fine-tune your experience as you are swaddled by embossed leather. The wood is not a veneer, it's real open-pore offered in several species. Several flavors of mild-hybrid drivetrains are offered. All this starts at $43,995, a bargain for such elegance and ability. Tell us what they got right in the comments below. Browse Jaguar XF For Sale Image (C) Jaguar Land Rover

By Andrew Nabors – March 16, 2021

Jaguar Land Rover & Panasonic Unveil Virus Killing Techno...

Hello, I am your cabin filter and I am only capable of catching a fraction of what I could. That's why Jaguar Land Rover and Panasonic have unveiled virus-killing technology. Their latest press release heralds a prototype onboard system that inhibits viruses and bacteria by 97%. This collaboration incorporates "nanoe X" technology to ionize the cabin air. High voltage is used to create hydroxyl radicals that don't play nicely with viruses or bacteria. The process is very similar to ozone cleaning but without the risk of cancer. Our dealers have all the info, so click the button to learn more. Shop Land Rover Shop Jaguar Images (C) Jaguar Land Rover

By Andrew Nabors – March 15, 2021

Why You Should Buy a Jaguar E-Type

Enzo Ferrari said it is "The most beautiful car ever made" and that should be why you should buy a Jaguar E-Type. If that statement doesn't inspire you, take a minute with us to consider what makes them so loved. When they arrived in 1961, Americans weren't used to reaching 150 mph. The sleek bodies cut through the air while also hiding incredible technology from view. Better known as the XKE on this side of the pond, it introduced the masses to independent rear suspension two years before Corvette adopted it. Those who haven't experienced one are quick to note how comfortable and capable they are. A big reason for this is very low un-sprung weight. One of the first sports cars with disc brakes, they are mounted inboard, next to the differential. Because they were built until 1975, parts are cheap and there is incredible camaraderie among owners around the world. You won't find a car that looks this amazing at such an affordable price, so click the button to see what we mean. View All E-Type For Sale Image (C) Jaguar Land Rover

By Andrew Nabors – March 11, 2021

New Jaguar E-Pace Is Striking From Any Angle

Luxury Crossovers are hotter than ever, so this mean cat has been restyled inside and out. With crisp lines and bold features, let's see how the new Jaguar E-Pace is striking from any angle. A new campaign debuted this morning starring Hannah Wants, DJ MK, and Christina Chong. Their goal is to show how Jaguar uses the E-Pace to support creative industries. The E-Pace will foster your creativity with the latest in connectivity. Their Pivi Pro system combines all infotainment and vehicle controls, and it is seamlessly updated over the air. Choose from 2 flavors of 2-liter power. One is a mild hybrid and the other adds plug-in charging to offer 34 miles of battery range. The most efficient Jaguar achieves 141 mpg if you charge it at night, and the starting price of $40,995 makes it a bargain in this segment. Jaguar and Land Rover are so busy that the new model is assembled by Magna on the same assembly line as the G-Wagen and the Toyota Supra. That should give you an idea of how great it can be in your collection. Shop Jaguar E-Pace Image (C) Jaguar Land Rover

By Andrew Nabors – January 28, 2021

1953 Jaguar C-Type Continuation Announced

Every collection should have a tie to the past, so the 1953 Jaguar C-Type Continuation has been announced. This limited run of eight cars will faithfully replicate the cars that won LeMans in '53. A new 3.4-liter straight-six enjoys triple weber carburetors, disc brakes, and an FIA-legal chassis. That's right, you will be eligible for vintage racing. Following on the successful projects by Jaguar Classic, we hope you act quickly to order yours. It will be a nice rival to the 1952 C-Type by Ecurie Ecosse! Jaguar For Sale Images (C) Jaguar Land Rover

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