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.

Jag F PACE SVR 21MY 29 Static DF2549 021220

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 – 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

2017 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Front Interior

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 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 – September 15, 2020

2021 Jaguar F-Pace Updated With New Styling & Connectivity

Innovation never stops at Jaguar/Land Rover. In an ongoing quest to give customers the ultimate in English luxury, the 2021 Jaguar F-Pace has been updated with new styling and connectivity. Starting at the most obvious, the new grille is flanked by slim LED headlights. The hood has been revised for improved aerodynamics, and every aspect of the exterior was studied for wind noise. " width="680"> Browse Jaguar F-Pace For Sale Inside you will find an 11.4" curved gauge cluster that organizes entertainment and energy systems. The latter is the real shocker, as all F-Pace models will feature Mild Hybrid assistance. Their V6 is offered in 340 and 400 horsepower, sent to all wheels via an 8-speed automatic. An electric supercharger along with a traditional turbo allow the 400 to reach 60 mph in 5.0 seconds, not bad for an eco-friendly SUV. Not only will you have the latest in active noise cancellation, but an ionizing cabin filter also traps even the smallest particles. Click the button above to learn more and stay with us for all your Jaguar news.

By Andrew Nabors – June 25, 2020

Eagle Lightweight GT is the Ultimate E-Type

When you think iconic Jaguar roadster, what comes to mind? Even if English cars are not your thing, everyone agrees that the classic Jaguar E-Type is a timeless work of art. Eagle started by restoring them one at a time. Customers begen inquiring about upgrades that have spawned the Resto-Mod movement, and it led the team to go all in. After completely reverse-engineering the entire car, the Eagle Lightweight GT is the ultimate E-Type. It has taken over 35 years to develop their own chassis, suspension, interior, and every body panel from aerospace aluminum alloy. Their 4.7-liter straight six makes use of an aluminum block and forged internals to offer 380 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. The cold air intake plenum is 3D printed carbon fiber, a work of art in its own right. After digitally scanning the internals of the transmission, it received carbon fiber synchros and cnc-machined internals so you can shift gears with one finger. Parts that were originally made of steel have been replaced by Inconel, titanium, and magnesium. This allows the car to weigh in at only 2,242 lbs with a full leather interior. No expense was spared, as their new floor pans and pedal box offer a relaxing driving position. Click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all your classic Jaguar news. Learn More " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – May 29, 2020

Jaguar: An Ode To The Road

Lockdowns are being lifted around the world, so Jaguar wants to inspire those who enjoy driving. By filming desolate urban streets and gorgeous rural settings, we are reminded when driving for fun was the best experience in a proper English luxury car. Many would choose an F-Type convertible or the new electric I-Pace. As for me, nothing beats the raw emotions of the XE SV Project 8. Click the button below to find your Jaguar and stay with us for all your automotive news. Browse Jaguar For Sale " width="680">

Jaguar I-PACE Global Drive, Portugal, 2018

By Andrew Nabors – May 19, 2020

Jaguar Master Class Explains Their Design Process

Many brands produce bland cars that can't be recognized at a distance. Jaguar has never been guilty of this, and their dedicated customers are a testament to the designers. Normally, the motivation behind the lines and curves of a new model are a closely-guarded secret. That does not apply to the new Jaguar I-PACE for sale. Top 50 Best Exotic Cars & Supercars Of All Time Their first electric SUV is also one of the most appealing on the market. It looks like nothing else on the road thanks to a dedicated team led by Chief Creative Designer Dominic Najafi. In this 4-part series, we follow his lead as the I-PACE transforms from sketches into reality. If you haven't experienced the I-PACE in person it will change the way you perceive electric cars. Click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all your Jaguar updates. Browse Jaguar I-PACE For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – April 28, 2020

New Jaguar Series Highlights Incredible Collections

We can't agree more with Jaguar and Land Rover's #keepitparked campaign. There is no reason to be on the road, so enjoy your time with a new YouTube series. Jaguar is going around the world to highlight their most-dedicated collectors. If you have ever been to a British car show, you know there are no casual owners. These men and women know the torque-spec of every bolt. Asking them if their Jaguar is for sale is truly insulting. Check Out Jay Leno's Car Collection Such is the case with their first installment, profiling Scott Holley. Play this video in slow-motion to view cars that you will never see in person. He lives in Indiana, and that's all we will tell you. Post your favorite car from this film in the comments below, and stay with us for more amazing collections. Browse Jaguar For Sale " width="680">

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