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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 – October 20, 2023

Hublot Debuts The All-New $127K Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A ...

Samuel Ross collaborates with Hublot to release the Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A, a luxury timepiece that merges art and innovation. Luxury watchmaking and art have often been intertwined, but the latest collaboration between Hublot and generational artist Samuel Ross takes it to the next level. Their longstanding relationship and shared vision have given birth to the Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A, an exclusive timepiece that integrates Ross's artistic expertise and Hublot's pioneering horological skills. Born from a three-year engineering journey that began in 2020, Ross is no stranger to creativity and design within the watch world. Known for pushing the boundaries of art and industrial design, he’s poured this heart and soul into the Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A. From its case to crown, strap, and bezel, every component of the watch embodies Ross's signature industrial language and Hublot’s “Art of Fusion” philosophy. The Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A is made remarkable by its material choices and subtle details. The 44mm watch case showcases a gray monochrome theme, crafted from shiny micro-blasted titanium. Ross extends this metallic shine to the clasp, which includes a rough laser engraving of the Hublot logo. Further elevating the design, the crown is over-molded in gray rubber, harmonizing with the tourbillon bridge now appearing in a neutral shade. This makes it easy to pair the watch with one of the three full rubber straps available in vivid green, black, or white. The watch is powered by Hublot's 282-component Manufacture HUB6035 caliber, operating at 3 Hz with a 72-hour power reserve. Limited to just 50 pieces, the Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A is more of an example of what can be achieved when artistry and engineering come together. The all-new Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A is currently available through an authorized retailer for $127,000. Shop all the luxury watches currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Watches For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Hublot

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 17, 2023

Netflix Announces 'The Netflix Cup' As A Live Golf Tourna...

Mark your calendar and get ready for a golf tournament unlike any other! It's no surprise to say that the uptick in popularity for both Formula 1 racing and professional golf comes at the hands of Netflix, showcasing the two competitive sports as part of its trending documentary series. The Formula 1: Drive to Survive and Full Swing documentaries take viewers behind the scenes of each sports series and inside the lives of the professional athletes who compete for the top spot. With millions tuning in around the world to catch the action over the past year, Netflix is continuing the upward trend by announcing its first-ever live sports event. The Netflix Cup invites members of both Drive to Survive and Full Swing to participate in a competitive 4v4 golf tournament, setting the stage for some Formula 1 racing drivers who already perform well on the golf course. Streaming live on Netflix from the Wynn Las Vegas, the PGA golfers that will be participating in The Netflix Cup are Justin Thomas, Rickie Fowler, Max Homa, and Collin Morikawa. Stepping out of the race car cockpit and into a pair of golf shoes are Formula 1 drivers Alex Albon, Pierre Gasly, Lando Norris, and Carlos Sainz. The live event will be set up as a pro-am tournament that showcases an eight-hole match between the duos, using a knockout format that concludes the competition with a head-to-head final hole finish. While team pairings and other specifics have yet to be announced, the celebrity golf tournament is sure to bring the competitiveness out of every golfer and racing driver. The Netflix Cup will be streamed live exclusively on Netflix on November 14th at 6 pm EST. Create or restart your Netflix account just in time for The Netflix Cup by clicking the link below. Sign-Up For Netflix View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix US (@netflix) Source: Netflix

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 17, 2023

How To Buy: Crocs' New Tow Mater Clogs Inspired By Disney...

For most avid car collectors and enthusiasts, the passion for all things automotive came at a young age through magazines, movies, toys, and video games. Whether you were flipping through an issue of duPont REGISTRY or sitting front row at the premiere of Disney Pixar's 'Cars' movie, the instant connection led to an interest that now categorizes millions of us as car lovers. Recognized as one of the most famous automotive-inspired movie series in cinema history, Cars captured the world's attention with a fuel-driven premier at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina. The creative team at Crocs is proud to have once again partnered with Disney to create a clog line inspired by the popular four-wheel characters from Cars. The newest release features a Crocs clog made to resemble Tow Mater, which debuted as the local tow truck in Radiator Springs, eventually becoming the best friend of Lightning McQueen. Crocs x Cars teased the upcoming release with an Instagram reel of Tow Mater towing the first Lightning McQueen clogs released as part of the collaboration. The all-new Mater Crocs showcase a design that accurately portrays the weathered look of Tow Mater's rusty exterior, from miscolored body panels to his original "Tow Mater" door logo. In addition to its authentic look, the new Crocs release includes a 3D engine block and heel strap tow hitch to further highlight the attention to detail. Available exclusively through Crocs, the all-new Mater Crocs clogs are scheduled to be released today. Shop the new Mater Crocs and all of the other creative clogs from Crocs by clicking the link below. Shop Now View this post on Instagram A post shared by Crocs Shoes (@crocs) Source: Crocs Instagram

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 16, 2023

Oracle Red Bull Racing Partners With TaylorMade On The Ne...

When two worlds of elite performance connect, the result is nothing short of groundbreaking. Oracle Red Bull Racing and TaylorMade Golf Company have just pulled off an exhilarating fuel-driven collaboration, set for release on October 17, just in time for the 2023 United States Grand Prix. The all-new Speed Craft Collection masterfully marries the engineering genius behind Oracle Red Bull Racing's winning 2023 RB19 race car with TaylorMade's high-performance golf equipment, giving fans the best of both worlds. The collection features a special edition Stealth 2 Plus driver that resembles design elements from the iconic RB19 race car. Decked out in the dark navy and red livery synonymous with the racing team, the driver incorporates a carbon fiber construction, just like the RB19. The Stealth 2 Plus makes full use of this advanced material for precision weighting and aerodynamics, embodying the ultimate balance between power and mechanics. This driver offers more carbon fiber than any other TaylorMade driver, featuring a 15g sliding weight for shot shape customization. Also in the collection is the Oracle Red Bull Racing Spider GTX putter, a work of art that effortlessly combines modern design with classic high-MOI shape. On-course items like Tour Stand golf bags, towels, tees, and TP5x golf balls are also part of the package, as are lifestyle apparel and headwear that let you rock your passion for racing and golf anywhere you go. From t-shirts and hoodies to caps and bucket hats, the apparel line allows for versatile styling that aligns with individual fashion sensibilities. Whether you're a golfer aiming for that perfect swing or a racing fan who lives for the thrill of speed, the Speed Craft Collection by TaylorMade x Oracle Red Bull Racing has something for everyone. Shop all of the luxury golf offerings from TaylorMade by clicking the link below. Shop All TaylorMade Golf Source: TaylorMade Golf Company

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 12, 2023

Daniel Arsham Teams Up With Mattel Creations On A Limited...

In a move that combines the worlds of art and toys like never before, Mattel Creations announced an upcoming creative collaboration with renowned New York contemporary artist Daniel Arsham. The partnership will feature a reinterpretation of Hot Wheels' most iconic 1:64-scale models, combining the playful spirit of the toy cars with Arsham's artistic vision. The fuel-driven partnership is set to release limited quantities of these each model in four distinct "Laps," starting with crystalized, eroded versions of the iconic Hot Wheels cars Rodger Dodger and a Porsche 930 Turbo. The collaboration is a result of two years of creative synergy between Arsham Studio and the Mattel Creations design team. Arsham, as a known Porsche aficionado, naturally chose the Porsche 930 Turbo alongside the Rodger Dodger (a modified 1973 Dodge Charger SE.) The first "Lap" of this collection is set to debut at a public event in NYC on October 21st-22nd and on Mattel Creations' official website starting October 27th. As a major bonus, each model will come encased in an Eroded Super Rally Case designed to resemble a wheel and tire as a throwback to the original Hot Wheels Rally Case from 1968. One standout feature is the use of Silkstone, a modern composite with a porcelain-like appearance. This special project marks the first time this material has been applied to Hot Wheels' 1:64-scale models. The new material meets the high-level detail required to capture Arsham's signature erosion technique. Fans of both should mark their calendars for October 27th when this one-of-a-kind Hot Wheels collection goes live. Shop and discover all of the current automotive collections from Mattel Creations by clicking the link below. Shop Mattel Creations Source: Mattel Creations

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 11, 2023

Pininfarina x Related Group Set To Build The Luxury 45-St...

For those seeking an exceptional blend of urban luxury and South Florida beachfront living, the unveiling of Andare Residences by Pininfarina offers a promising vista. Situated along Fort Lauderdale’s iconic Las Olas Boulevard, the partnership between the eminent real estate powerhouse, Related Group, and the successful Italian design expert, Pininfarina, has set the stage for an architectural marvel. This 45-story tower, with its collection of 163 unique residences, is the first to grace the skyline of Las Olas Boulevard in almost two decades. It promises a balanced combination of coastal panoramas and city pulse, offering stunning ocean views a mere two miles from Las Olas Beach. Nick Pérez, President of Related's Condominium Division, expressed excitement over the project by emphasizing Las Olas' transformation into Fort Lauderdale's prime residential hub. Renowned for iconic automotive designs Pininfarina's touch is apparent in Andare’s look and feel, reminiscent of flowing waves as an homage to the city's maritime heritage. Samuele Sordi, Chief Architect at Pininfarina, dives into the inspiration behind Andare’s design, which aims to craft a monument that resonates with Las Olas’ rich past while celebrating its bright future. The meticulous design approach extends into the heart of Andare, where residents can relax in luxurious interiors, spa-like bathrooms, gourmet kitchens, and breathtaking views. The expansive amenities encompass everything from state-of-the-art wellness facilities to entertainment lounges that capture the very essence of the urban resort lifestyle. Jenni Morejon, the head of the Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority, highlighted the pivotal role of Las Olas Boulevard in the city's evolution. With the soaring demand for luxury accommodations, Andare Residences by Pininfarina is set to define the neighborhood’s personality. Located at the nexus of culture, commerce, and recreation, the Andare Residences by Pininfarina is ideally situated for those who enjoy an fresh and eventful lifestyle. Sales kick off on October 18th, with two-bedroom residences commencing at a tempting $1.6 million. Source: Pininfarina

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 27, 2023

Bentley Unveils The Hand-Drawn "Belonging Bentayga" By Ar...

Bentley Motors showcases the 'Belonging Bentayga,' featuring artwork from Stephen Wiltshire. Bentley Motors has seamlessly integrated art into its automotive lineup, serving as a driving force for creative collaborations that elevate social consciousness. Bentley is taking a significant stride toward its diversity goals with the introduction of the 'Belonging Bentayga,' a hand-painted Alpine Green Bentayga Hybrid. The luxury Bentayga SUV showcases skylines from iconic cities like New York, London, and Tokyo, celebrating diversity through art and automotive design. Conceived in Bentley's Crewe factory, the rolling art piece highlights the incredible talents of Stephen Wiltshire MBE, an architectural artist with autism, known for his ability to draw landscapes from memory. The Bentayga embodies Bentley's commitment to diversity, further reinforced by Wiltshire's personal journey. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Wiltshire has overcome challenges to become a renowned artist, making the 'Belonging Bentayga' a compelling story of resilience. The hand-drawn design also features illustrations of people from diverse nationalities, marking it as Bentley's third art piece dedicated to diversity. Previous works include the 'Unifying Spur' and a rainbow-inspired Continental GT V8 Convertible. These initiatives are part of Bentley's five-step strategy to enhance diversity and inclusion at its Crewe-based factory. With its 'Belonging Bentayga,' Bentley is crafting a unique narrative that connects luxury, art, and social values. View all Bentley Bentayga models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Bentley Bentayga For Sale Source: Bentley Motors

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 23, 2023

How To Buy: Porsche Design's New Porsche Rennsport Reunio...

Get a kick out of Porsche's new limited edition sneakers, Mirage Sport Tech, launched for the upcoming Rennsport Reunion 7. If you consider yourself to be a passionate Porsche owner or enthusiast, gear up because the most anticipated Porsche event of the year, Rennsport Reunion 7, is around the corner. This world-renowned event is the epitome of automotive excellence, gathering the largest collection of Porsche race cars, drivers, and fans from September 28th to October 1st, 2023, at Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey, California. So, how does Porsche elevate this already epic event? By launching a limited edition sneaker: the Porsche Rennsport Reunion 7 Mirage Sport Tech. These fuel-driven sneakers embody the spirit of Porsche, designed for both comfort and performance to make them ideal for every Porsche fanatic. The Mirage Sport Tech sneakers offer bold design features and sport unique Rennsport Reunion branding. You even have the option to choose between a stealth black or pristine white colorway. In essence, these sneakers commemorate Porsche's enduring legacy, celebrating 75 years of success both on and off the track. Make sure to mark your calendars for Rennsport Reunion 7 and grab your pair of Porsche Rennsport Reunion 7 Mirage Sport Tech sneakers. Shop the all-new Porsche Rennsport Reunion 7 Mirage Sport Tech sneakers by clicking on the link below. Shop Now Source: Porsche Design

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 21, 2023

Lotus x Onoto Unveil A $4,056 Limited-Edition Pen Celebra...

The limited-edition fountain pen, priced over $4,000, celebrates 75 years of Lotus Lotus is world-renowned for applying cutting-edge engineering and design to its lineup of sports cars and supercars, creating an exceptional driving experience for anyone behind the wheel. In efforts to create a luxury lifestyle built around its automobiles, Lotus has announced a special collaboration with British luxury fountain pen maker Onoto. This fuel-driven partnership merges two iconic British brands known for top-tier craftsmanship, celebrating Lotus' 75-year legacy as a leader in the automotive and motorsports world. Priced at $4,056, the luxury fountain pen is made from premium recycled aluminum sourced from Lotus’ legendary cars, including the iconic Type 72 Formula One racer. The attention to detail is impeccable, down to the "ACBC" monogram of Lotus founder Anthony Colin Bruce Chapman displayed on the pen’s final. As a brand that has always been focused on performance and innovation, Lotus takes this collaboration as an opportunity to reflect on its contribution to its industry. Onoto is known for producing handcrafted writing tools for historical figures like Winston Churchill and Florence Nightingale. This exclusive writing instrument is not just a tool, but a reminder of Lotus' impact over the last 75 years. View all Lotus models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Lotus For Sale Source: Lotus

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 01, 2023

Porsche Documents Sports Car History In Its New 'Artifact...

Explore the mystique of Porsche's history through "Artifacts," a coffee table book featuring high-res photos and captivating Porsche stories.

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