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 Andrew Nabors – March 30, 2021

Lamborghini Urus Driving Modes Explained

Which mode is right for the situation? Incredible power and bold styling should be enough for anyone. But what if you actually want to harness the abilities of your Raging Bull? Their latest press release gives us scenarios to explain the Lamborghini Urus driving modes. From the factory, the Urus specs include six driving modes. That is fine and dandy for most situations. Should you find yourself in a dynamic situation, a seventh mode is your blank canvas. Several hundred times a second, a powerful computer takes inputs from wheel speed, body roll, accelerometers, steering angles, and the engine's operating system. It uses these along with your right foot to instantly change the suspension, torque distribution, transmission shifting, and power delivery to keep your Urus under control. What it comes down to is how you feel: drift vs. grip. Tell us which mode suits your commute in the comments below. Browse Lamborghini Urus For Sale Images (C) Lamborghini

By Andrew Nabors – January 12, 2021

Fast Financials 2020 Q4: Lamborghini Sets New Sales Record

Even with Italy being on lockdown for 70 days, Lamborghini has set a new sales record for the second half of 2020. From July through December, Lamborghini delivered more cars than any other six-month timespan. This record was a major part of how 7,430 new Lamborghinis for sale left the lot with happy customers. Because our friend Stephan Winkelmann has done so well at leading Bugatti, he was also appointed as Lamborghini's new President and CEO. He sat in the big chair up until 2016, so we're glad to know he will now lead both brands with continued prosperity. Here is how the Raging Bull performed: Urus: 4,391 Huracan: 2,193 Aventador: 846 We were also glad to see six new models. From the Huracan EVO RWD Coupe and Spyder to the Sian Roadster, Essenza SCV12, Huracan STO, and the SC20, the future looks bright for Ferrucio's legacy. " width="680"> Image (C) Lamborghini Automobili

By Andrew Nabors – January 11, 2021

2021 Lamborghini Urus Scale Model In Action

For those who are hesitant to abuse their new Lamborghini for sale, this 2021 Lamborghini Urus scale model in action displays the abilities of their potent SUV. In the latest upload by the manufacturer, photographer Kunaal Kelkar decided to create action scenes using a 1:18 model and a Fujifilm X-T3. After building an acrylic box to protect the camera, he arranged rocks to resemble a scene at the edge of the sea. Your Urus will have no problems conquering any terrain, so click the button below to begin your adventure. 2022 Lamborghini Urus Price & Specs Browse Lamborghini Urus For Sale " width="680"> Image: (C) Lamborghini Automobili

By Andrew Nabors – December 16, 2020

2021 Lamborghini SC20 Unveiled By Squadra Corse

This is what happens when you let the racing department work late. The 2021 Lamborghini SC20 was just unveiled by Squadra Corse and it is 1 of 1. While we would like to experience it for ourselves, the lucky customer will probably remain anonymous. Instead of ordering a car through the Ad Personam department, Squadra Corse was the only institution capable of turning the dream into a reality. Lamborghini Aventador Specs, Price, & Photos First and foremost, the goal was to integrate the latest aerodynamic attributes of the Suqadra Corse race cars into a street legal roadster. Designers at the Centro Stile had their hands full by adding subtle cues from the past to make it worthy of a one-off Lamborghini. To show off their prowess at carbon fiber, the front splitters direct air around the cockpit for a comfortable drive, and the massive rear spoiler has multiple settings to optimize downforce. Interior details are 3D printed to save weight, and visible carbon surrounds the passengers. You and your passenger will enjoy 770 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque borrowed from the Aventador with All Wheel Drive. If you are inspired to build your own, our dealers are ready to make it happen. Click the button below and stay with us for all your Lamborghini news. Browse Lamborghini Aventador For Sale Images: (C) Lamborghini Automobili

By Andrew Nabors – November 13, 2020

Lamborghini Countdown Clock Hides Something Wild

Time is the fire in which we burn, and raging bulls have a fever that strikes fear in all living creatures. That's why a Lamborghini countdown clock is hiding something wild. Behind it is a silhouette of something that will undoubtedly be another wild beast. It would presumptuous to guess at what it is, because every new Lamborghini for sale has always arrived beyond what anyone thought possible. Until the reveal, tell us what you thing it will be in the comments below and stay with us as this story evolves. View The Countdown

By Andrew Nabors – November 03, 2020

2021 Lamborghini Huracan EVO Fluo Capsule Offers New Colors

Looking at any new Lamborghini Huracan for sale will take your breath away. While many prefer black or red, many of us have more vibrant personalities. So that is why the 2021 Lamborghini Huracan EVO Fluo Capsule offers new colors. Think of the brightest highlighter you have ever seen, and then amplify it by an order of magnitude. That is what you will receive in bold matte finishes. The new lineup consists of Verde Shock, Arancio Livrea, Celeste Fedra, Arancio Dac, and Giallo Clarus. Lamborghini Huracan EVO RWD Aerodynamics in Action Each color is offset by matte black roof, grille, and rocker panels. Inside we are treated new sport seats in black leather or Alcantara. To carry the extorior theme inside, the start switch and their iconic logo are finished in fluorescents to match the paint color. A perfect final touch is a pinstripe on the mirrors and vertical ones on the rear splitter. This collection of raging bulls will undoubtedly stand out from the crowd, so click the link below to learn more from our local dealer. Stay with us for all your Lamborghini news. Browse Lamborghini Huracan EVO For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 28, 2020

2021 Lamborghini Urus Graphite Capsule Unlocks Unlimited ...

With so many options for colors and interior materials, ordering a Super SUV can be intimidating. That is why this concept serves to inspire prospective owners of the Raging Bull. That is why the 2021 Lamborghini Urus Graphite Capsule unlocks unlimited Personalization options. Lamborghini Urus Price, Specs, Photos & Review Unveiling in their latest press release, the four new matte exteriors are: Bianco Monocerus, Nero Noctis, and Grigio Nimbus and Grigio Keres. If you want a 2-tone experience, these can be contrasted with gloss Arancio Leonis and Arancio Dryope, Giallo Taurus and Verde Scandal. The wheels are specific to the Graphite Capsule edition, and they also feature the contrast color around their 23" edges. Inside the 2-tone motif is carried over to the leather, stitched in Q-Citura. Ventilated Alcantara are only available on the Graphite Capsule and Pearl Capsule editions, which will debut for the 2021 model year. With an MSRP of $218,009, this 641-horsepower beast is waiting for you. Click the link below to find our dealer near you and stay with us for all your Lamborghini news. Browse Urus For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 25, 2020

UPDATE: More Images of the First Lamborghini Sian Roadste...

It is delightful to see such a dedicated team. In just a few months, the most advanced Lamborghini concept ever shown has become a reality. In an Instagram post by team member @mitjaborkert, the first Lamborghini Sian Roadster was presented to CEO Stefano Domenicali. The man responsible for the Urus, Aventador SVJ, and the Centenario now has another hypercar to his credit. He is the Chief that must build a case to his bosses at VW that Lamborghini needs to stay on the cutting edge. Therefore, the Sian Roadster uses a 774 horsepower V12 and supercapacitors to offer 807 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque to all wheels. Click the button below to find great offers on 2020 models and stay with us for all your Lamborghini news. Browse Lamborghini For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – August 17, 2020

Lamborghini Clear Film Will Protect Your Raging Bull

Here in the Sunshine State, our UV index & humidity is a recipe for fried paint. That is why paint protection is such a booming business. Clear vinyl is a great solution, but it requires incredible skill to adhere to complex corners. That's why Lamborghini Protective Film will protect your raging bull. With the incredible lines of every Lamborghini, it costs a sizable amount for time and materials to wrap your car. That is why Lamborghini's pre-cut kits can be installed by your dealer and backed by a factory warranty. Every Lamborghini is an investment, so keep the paint in new condition by learning more from our dealers. Click the button and stay with us for all your Lamborghini news. Browse Lamborghini For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – July 10, 2020

Lamborghini Museum Reopens With Sian Roadster Front & Center

Fans of the Raging Bull rejoice. The Lamborghini Museum of Technologies (MUDETEC) reopens today. Their latest achievement is the Sian Roadster, and it will be on display until Sunday evening. If you are planning a trip to Sant’Agata Bolognese, the facility will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and only with advanced booking. This is to make sure the patrons are protected from the virus, and there will be disinfection spaces available to all guests. Lamborghini Sian Explained by Chief Technical Officer Once inside, you will be treated to a journey of the brand's aesthetic and engineering innovations over the past 57 years. Starting with the 350 GT, you will see prototypes of the Miura, Countach, LM002, Centenario, and the Aventador SVJ. Other exhibits include their foray into Forged Composites, Active Aerodynamics, all-wheel drive, and the Human-Machine Interface. While it would be worth the trip, we can empathize if the notion of traveling is unsettling currently. That's why our dealers have amazing displays without the need for a passport. Click the button below to find one near you and stay with us for all your Lamborghini news. Browse Lamborghini For Sale

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