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

Lamborghini News

Lamborghini news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated daily, covering the V12 hybrid Revuelto, the Temerario and the Urus, one of the biggest names in luxury SUV news. Our reporting runs across reveals, first drives, one-off builds and the auction results that set values. We also follow the earlier cars, from the Countach through to the Veneno. Many sites carry supercar news, but very few carry it beside live listings. A great many of the Lamborghinis covered here are listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, so the reporting and a real asking price appear together. For Lamborghini news today, start with the stories below.

By Edward Jones – January 06, 2020

Lamborghini Starts Adding Alexa Into the Huracan EVO Range

Not too long ago, the Alexa Auto was announced by Amazon as a device for your car that would bring their virtual assistant on the road. Now, Lamborghini has announced that they will be adding Alexa directly into their Huracan EVO range. In the video below, they give examples of how Alexa will function in their sports car. Alexa will be able to control the temperature, mood lighting and a lot more in their Huracan EVOs. SHOP ALEXA AUTO " width="680">

By Edward Jones – October 22, 2019

New Lamborghini Huracan Production Record is Mindblowing

Lamborghini has just hit a massive milestone for the Huracan's production run. In just five years, Lamborghini has produced as many Huracans as they did Gallardos in ten years (2003-2013). That number? 14,022. That's an insane increase in production that shows just how well the car is selling and how efficient their production line is. The 14,022th Huracan to roll off of the line is a Huracan EVO coupe in Grigio Titans. Its destination? Korea. Lamborghini celebrated this car with both a press release, as well as a group photo with the car (see above). If this isn't a good sign of Lamborghini's growth over that past years, I don't know what is. Congratulations to Lamborghini on this major milestone! see all lamborghini huracans for sale Related Video: " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 11, 2019

Lamborghini Smashed Sales Records in 2018

If your car company needs a nice boost, do what Lamborghini did. Adding an SUV to your lineup is a recipe for success. While the arrival of the Urus was certainly a statement to the world, their press release highlights improvements to each model. Starting with the most impressive data, eight consecutive years of growth have culminated in a 51% sales increase. The home of the Raging Bull sold 3,815 cars in 2017 and 5,750 last year. This was facilitated by doubling the factory size to create a new assembly line for the Super SUV. The Urus attributed to 1,761 of those sales, certainly impressive for a new model. While they sell cars in 50 countries, the USA remains their most significant market by a long shot. Ceo Stefano Domenicali has reason to celebrate. The Urus was also joined by the Aventador SVJ and the Huracan Performante Spyder. Lessons learned on both were used to develop the Huracan Evo in secret. They saved it for the new year to get 2019 off to a great start. Domenicali had this to say: “In 2018, Lamborghini entered new dimensions. We delivered not only another sales increase, but reached substantially new levels in surpassing by far the magic mark of 5,000 Lamborghinis sold. This quantum leap proves the sustainability of our product and commercial strategy. The performance is all the more remarkable as we mastered an unprecedented double challenge: constantly bringing new models and technologies to the super sports car market, while simultaneously managing doubled production capacities at our headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese. Right from its sales start, the new Super SUV Urus created enthusiastic market acceptance and broadened our customer base. We also significantly increased our high brand awareness, especially with the young generation, having multiplied our followership on our social media channels to more than 32 million. All this is a real team achievement and I would like to thank every Lamborghini team member for their inspiration and dedication to our brand.” Unlike their Italian competitors, Lamborghini doesn't limit their models production. If you can dream it, they will build it without any silly VIP list or prerequisites. Congrats to everyone at Sant’Agata Bolognese, how's about a stick shift Huracan Spyder? Just kidding, their dual-clutch is perfect. If you don't believe me click the link below and find out for yourself. Find a Lamborghini Showroom Near You " width="680"> Related: Lamborghini Espada & Islero 50th Anniversary Lamborghini Marzal Hidden Since 1967

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – March 04, 2016

2015 Marks Best Year Ever for Lamborghini

Lamborghini has a long history of great years, but 2015 marks the best year in the company's history. Growth is full throttle and looks as though it should continue into the coming years. Highlights include in introduction of new models and selling more than 3,000 units worldwide. Here's a closer look at what made 2015 great for Lamborghini2015 Highlights(According to a press release from Lamborghini) Over 3,000 Lamborghinis sold (28% increase) Five new models introduced Business growth for 5th year in a row 39% increase in sales euros North America and China mark the largest markets for the auto maker, and they hope to continue the trend into 2016. According to Lamborghini:Interrupted for a few years by the financial crisis, sales have increased considerably over the long term and have almost tripled since 2010. Over the past ten years sales have more than doubled and turnover more than tripled. The number of dealers has also more than tripled.With the Geneva release of the Huracan Avio and the Centenario, we can't wait to see what's in store for 2016. Congrats Lamborghini!Lamborghinis For Sale

By Edward Jones – February 23, 2016

Lamborghini's New CEO, Stephan Winkelmann Now Audi quattr...

There's a change of guard happening at both Audi quattro and Lamborghini.Both companies issued press releases today that they will be under new management. Starting with Lamborghini, Stephan Winkelmann has stepped down as the CEO, with Stefano Domenicali taking his place."Over the past eleven years Stephan Winkelmann has transformed Lamborghini into a global leader in the manufacture of super sports cars," said Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board Management of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Administrative Board of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. "His successor, who also possesses a wealth of experience in this area, will be continuing this success." Stefano DomenicaliDomenicali is an Imola native that was the Vice President New Business Initiatives at Audi AG since November 2014."I am very excited to be taking on the challenges of this great legacy. It is now my duty to continue the successes that my predecessor Stephan Winkelmann achieved for Automobili Lamborghini." - Stefano DomenicaliAs for Winkelmann, his years in the automotive industry are anything but gone, because he is now the CEO of quattro GmbH, a subsidiary of Audi AG. He replaces Heinz Hollerweger, who is retiring after serving Audi for almost 40 years. This is the company in charge of high-performance vehicles like the R and RS models.“With his experience from more than eleven years in charge of Lamborghini, Stephan Winkelmann will be a key contributor to the further growth of quattro GmbH,” said Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi AG, in the Audi press release.As you more than likely know, Winkelmann was the President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. since January 1, 2005.We're excited to see what both CEOs will bring to their respective companies. The CEO changes will be taking place on March 15, 2016. Lamborghinis For Sale | Audis For Sale

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