Lamborghini News

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 – February 17, 2020

LUXE Surfaces Atelier Announces New Surface Collection by...

Luxe Surfaces Atelier, famous for their work with high-end brands in the design surfaces sector, has debuted their first exclusive collection of architectural surfaces by Lamborghini. Within the Automobili Lamborghini Surfaces Collection are innovative materials that feature "elegant lines and iconic design" that are blended into a very large mineral stone slab. According to Lamborghini, "the Surfaces Collection Automobili Lamborghini was born thanks to the use of innovative and exclusive patented systems." The unveiling of this first collection happened in Valencia, Spain from February 3-7, 2020. SHOP LAMBORGHINIS FOR SALE Source: Lamborghini

By Andrew Nabors – February 14, 2020

Happy Valentine's Day From Lamborghini

Saint Valentine died today in Rome, 1,751 years ago. His notions of pure & courtly love have endured the ages, and they have clearly inspired the workers of Sant'Agata Bolognese. The quality of every new Lamborghini for sale speaks for itself, as Gallardos and Huracans can easily reach 200,000 miles with regular service. Appealing to the U.S. with Doo-Wop music, have a happy Valentine's day from Lamborghini. Browse All Lamborghini For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – February 11, 2020

Hear the New Lamborghini Hypercar's V12 Scream

Before the year's end, Lamborghini Squadra Corse will be unveiling their new track-only hypercar. Details are scarce, but here are two important facts we do know. First, it will be powered by a 6.5-liter V12 engine accompanied by zero turbos. Secondly, this engine will produce 830 horsepower. In case you want to hear what this brutal engine sounds like, Lamborghini released a video of the new hypercar being pushed on a dyno (found below). While the car we see is a stripped-down version, Lamborghini does divulge that it will have a large rear wing, roof scoop and racing hood with dual air intakes. ALL LAMBORGHINI CENTENARIO FOR SALE " width="680">

650HP Lamborghini Urus with Advanced Vehicle Dynamics Technology - jweaver@quintess.com

By Andrew Nabors – February 10, 2020

New Lamborghini Urus is Fully Connected

Driving a Countach or a Diablo, you are connected to the road by a manual transmission and wide Pirelli rubber. You are connected to Valentino Balboni, who made sure your car responded to every input. But in the parlance of our times, being connected has a connotation. To show us how their latest communication features, let's see how the new Lamborghini Urus is fully connected. To explore all the innovations offered in the Urus, click the link below to find our dealer near you! Browse All Lamborghini Urus For Sale " width="680"> Related: Lamborghini Urus Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Andrew Nabors – February 07, 2020

Lamborghini Urus Wins Best SUV in Stuttgart

Germany has a car culture unlike any other, and awards are not given lightly. That's why our peers at Auto Motor und Sport magazine take months to compile their "Best Cars 2020" awards. Making the logical choice, the Lamborghini Urus won best SUV at their event in Stuttgart. The brief press release shows Chairman and CEO, Stefano Domenicali holding the coveted prize. It's no surprise to us, as every new Lamborghini Urus for sale offers 641 horsepower and 626 lb-ft of torque. They are a blast to drive and enchanting to look at, so click the button below to find one for yourself, and stay with us for all your Lamborghini news. Browse All Lamborghini Urus For Sale " width="680"> Related: Lamborghini Urus Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Edward Jones – February 05, 2020

Incredibly Rare Lamborghini Miura SVJ to be Shown at Rétr...

Lamborghini is showing off one of the rarest examples of the Miura at the Rétromobile classic car show in Paris. This specific car is Miura SVJ chassis number 4860, one of four original SVJs made by Lamborghini. The SVJ came to life as a supercar inspired by the Miura Jota and each was built upon special requests. Now, back to Miura SVJ #4860. What makes this car a perfect example to show off is the fact that it's been entirely restored by Lamborghini Polo Storico. The restoration process started with an "in-depth analysis of documents held in the archives and a search for sources and accounts from the period when it was built," according to Lamborghini. The end result is astonishing. You can see it for yourself by heading over to Rétromobile in Paris. Being shown alongside the Miura SVJ is a Miura P400 S built from spare parts by Lamborghini Polo Storico. ALL LAMBORGHINI MIURAS FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – January 17, 2020

Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Cruising in California

Not many Americans have experienced the highest and lowest locations in the contiguous 48 States. Death Valley and Mount Whitney are only 120 miles apart, but the difference in height is 14,787 feet. It is one of the most scenic drives you will ever experience, and that is why you need to take a new Lamborghini Aventador SVJ cruising in California. Our dealers have several to choose from, so click the button below to find yours! Browse all Lamborghini Aventador SVJ For Sale " width="680"> Related: Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Roadster Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Andrew Nabors – January 10, 2020

Jay Leno Rides in Robert Herjavec's Countach

No, your eyes aren't fooling you. Our favorite denim enthusiast is normally behind the wheel, but this time a shark is in control. In the latest upload from CNBC Prime, Jay Leno rides in Robert Herjavec's Countach. Mr. Lamborghini and his team only built 150 of the 1st-generation cars, and they are easily identified by the periscope roof. This slot contains a window aligned with the rear-view mirror. Imagine a Lamborghini with great visibility! In addition to starting several successful businesses, Robert has amassed a wild car collection. However it is nothing like Jay Leno's Collection, so stay with us for all the updates from Jay Leno's Garage. Browse All Lamborghini Countach For Sale " width="680"> Related: Lamborghini Countach Specs, Price, Photos & Review

By Andrew Nabors – January 10, 2020

2020 Lamborghini Huracan EVO RWD in Action

The moon is full and the weather is perfect. That means a few of us will be leaving work in style. A little drifting now and then helps your differential stay healthy, so that is why we love watching the 2020 Lamborghini Huracan EVO RWD in action. Over 200 lbs was lost when removing the center and front differentials, so engineers had the freedom to enhance the rear-wheel steering software. It arrives with 19" wheels and steel rotors, so it will be a low-maintenance & affordable daily driver. Our dealers are ready to give you all the info, so click the button below and stay with us for all your Huracan updates. Browse all Lamborghini Huracan For Sale " width="680"> Related: New Lamborghini Huracan EVO RWD is a Pure Driver's Car Lamborghini Huracan EVO Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Edward Jones – January 09, 2020

Lamborghini Previews Menswear Collection Fall/Winter 2020...

Lamborghini has just showcased their Fall-winter 2020-21 menswear collection at Pitti Uomo in Florence. Within the collection are three ranges: Informal Luxury, Casual and Pilota Ufficiale. Informal Luxury is a range that blends "creativity, cool luxury and informal elegance," according to Lamborghini. Iy includes items like a black leather biker jacket, minimal-tech parka, sweatshirts, t-shirts and shoes. The Casual range features more relaxed items like a two-tone puffer jacket, slim-fit jeans, sneakers and more. Within the Pilota Ufficiale range is gear that offers both style and performance. In this range is a triple-layer thermal jacket, shirts with futuristic prints, footwear and more. shop lamborghini gear " width="680">

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