Lifestyle

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 Jordan Aquistapace – May 17, 2024

The GearBox: McLaren LT Performance

The McLaren 765LT is known for its aggressive design and top-notch performance, ready to take on any track while still being great for daily driving. Its versatility makes it the perfect choice whether you're heading to the track or just driving to work. Your wardrobe should be just as flexible, combining business-appropriate pieces with comfortable performance wear. This week's GearBox is all about finding the best all-around performance outfits that work for any occasion. Just like the McLaren 765LT, these picks are stylish and functional, whether you're at the office or out with friends. From sleek jackets to versatile shoes, we've got you covered with items that look good and feel great. Check out the links below to shop all the featured products and accessories. Each piece is chosen to keep you looking sharp and feeling comfortable no matter where your day takes you. Don't forget to check back with duPont REGISTRY for more updates on luxury gear and new releases. We're here to make sure you stay ahead of the curve in both fashion and performance. 2022 McLaren 765LT Spider View Price And Listing Purnell Escape II Forged Carbon View Price And Listing F1 New Era McLaren Hat Shop Now McLaren SunGod Renegades Core Sunglasses Shop Now McLaren x Reiss F1 Zip-Through Fleece Jacket Shop Now Relaxed McLaren Graphic Tee Shop Now HIROSHI KATO 14-Ounce Selvedge Jeans Shop Now New Balance 550 Sneakers Shop Now Klipsch T5 II McLaren Edition Shop Now TUMI x McLaren Velocity Backpack Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 24, 2023

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By Edward Jones – February 10, 2023

Tint World® Continues Record Growth With Industry Recogni...

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By Edward Jones – February 01, 2023

Visit, Explore and Experience Reynold's Lake Oconee On Yo...

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By Jordan Aquistapace – January 03, 2023

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By Jordan Aquistapace – December 28, 2022

The GearBox: Off-Road Adventure Expert

When it’s time to step away from the work world and city life, the great outdoors seems to be the most appropriate place to clear the mind. The all-new LOKI Expedition Falcon X-Series allows the adventurous to take luxury lifestyle amenities on the road in a compact portable way. LOKI Expedition brings your shelter, your film studio, your maintenance shop and your home, as close to the adventure as you need it to be. MUST-READ: LOKI Expedition Debuts Its Bigger, Bolder, And Strikingly Capable Falcon X-Series This week’s GearBox focuses on the stylish and functional gear essential to pack on any excursion. Shop all of the adventurous products and accessories featured in this special by clicking the links below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more new luxury gear news and releases. LOKI Expedition Falcon X-Series LOKI Expedition Yes, compared to the original Falcon, it’s bigger, a lot bigger. LOKI Expedition almost doubled the length of its habitat that now spans 15ft. Best of all, it's manufactured right here in North America. This full-size build is outfitted with bigger water tanks, larger batteries, additional sleeping quarters, a closed shower and toilet & much more. Every LOKI built continues to be extreme weather rated allowing you to adventure into the most intense winter conditions and extreme desert heat. Price Upon Request Discover The LOKI Expedition Falcon X-Series Rolex Explorer II AS04584 Watches of Switzerland Introduced in 2011 for the 40th anniversary of the Explorer II, the Reference 216570 firmly sets in Rolex's sports lineup as a thoroughbred tool watch. Offered exclusively in 904L stainless steel, these watches share all the key design cues with previous iterations of the Explorer II, yet are unapologetically modern. Featuring a more contemporary 42mm size, modern movement components, and the fantastic updated Oyster bracelet with solid ends and a locking clasp with Easylink, the Reference 216570 and are more robust and legible than ever. Price: $14,990 Buy From Watches of Switzerland Melin Odyssey Brick HYDRO Baseball Cap Nordstrom The ultimate cap for outdoor adventures, this breathable, floatable Melin Brick Hydro hat is crafted with hydrophobic technology that beads away water and prevents absorption. Price: $69 Buy From Nordstrom Buck Mason Japanese Cotton Sateen Field Shirt Buck Mason Classic fit Buck Mason field shirt cut from Japan-milled 9.2 oz. cotton sateen with a soft brushed back. Details include button-through cuffs and a button front closure. Garment washed for a lived-in feel. Price: $175 Buy From Buck Mason Backcountry Seattle Tree Graphic T-Shirt Backcountry Prep for your next adventure in the wilderness with this Brixton New Wave Short-Sleeve T-shirt. Made from 100% organic cotton, the adventure professionals at Brixton incorporate the performance materials needed to keep up with all weather conditions thrown its way. Price: $29.95 Buy From Backcountry Carharrt Work In Progress Aviation Cargo Pants Nordstrom Cotton ripstop canvas brings both hardworking attitude and casual appeal to low-rise tan Carhartt Work In Progress Aviation Cargo pants crafted in a classic straight-leg profile. Price: $145 Buy From Nordstrom On-Running Cloudrock 2 Waterproof On-Running Terrain proof. Element proof. Excuse proof. The first On speed-hiking boot is built for traction, pace and protection in all conditions. Born in the Swiss Alps, it's engineered for performance stride after mountain-top stride. Hiking is about to be rocked. Price: $219.99 Buy From On-Running Oakley Clifden Polarized Sunglasses Tactics Scale the mountains in your next adventure with the Oakley Clifden, the ultimate mountaineering sunglasses built to protect against the elements. The Prizm Lens technology is designed to enhance color, contrast, and detail so you can make the most of any activity. Price: $235 Buy From Tactics DANGO D01 R-Spec Wallet DANGO nspired by the fruits of the automotive industry, we developed a very special line of wallets called the R-Spec Edition. It not only incorporates clean lines with contrasting elements and textures, but also includes the finest materials that define high performance. Price: $79 Buy From DANGO Medford Infraction Folding Knife The Medford Guy Inspired by the sleek and sophisticated lines of foreign sports cars, the Medford Knife and Tool Infraction is a truly stunning knife. Designed with the discerning knife aficionado in mind, this Medford Infraction offers all the style and performance of a high-end European sports car in a compact, sturdy package. Price: $800 Buy From The Medford Guy Oda Hop Backpack Oda The Oda Hop Collection Backpack features a minimalist design that suits every situation, equipped with concealed zips and organized compartments for your daily essentials and devices. Price: $299 Buy From Oda Santa Cruz Megatower Carbon C R Mountain Bike Backcountry Designed as a dedicated steed for enduro race stages, the Megatower Carbon C R Mountain Bike is the perfect tool for flying between the tape or for riders who need a long-travel rig for their favorite trails. This particular build utilizes Santa Cruz’s Carbon C layup which is a touch heavier than its CC Carbon counterpart, but still offers the responsive feel of carbon at a lower price point. Price: $5,649 Buy From Backcountry

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