Luxury 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 – July 13, 2022

Discover The Exclusive $150K Medford Knife & Tool Titan F...

The Titan kicks off the all-new Medford Knife & Tool OAK Collection. Presented by The Medford Guy - When it comes to supplying the most exceptional American-made knives for the uncommon man, the professionals at Medford Knife & Tool are the first choice. Medford Knife & Tool is proud to announce the introduction of The OAK Collection, an exclusive 10-piece series that features one-of-one luxury knife designs for dedicated collectors and investors. Leading off the highly-anticipated OAK Collection is the all-new Titan, an artistic creation that incorporates luxury design and premium materials. The Titan is loosely based on the non-traditional curves of the famous Medford Praetorian pocket knives. Making its appearance as the world’s first investment-grade knife, the Titan features an iridescent 5/16”-inch hand-forged handle with 107-layers of Chad Nichols Damascus and Timascus using a painstaking sculpting process. Medford Knife & Tool displays its craftsmanship and attention to detail with the addition of Chad Nichols Timascus skeletonized scales that add depth to the Titan’s design. Pushing the norms of custom knife design, Medford Knife & Tool chose to hand-sculpt the scales and pocket clip in a unique 'Stained Glass' style. The eye-catching finish highlights large peaks and valleys that reflect off of natural light similar to the facets of a diamond. Once deployed using its smooth pivot motion, the Titan reveals its stunningly intricate blade that features 1,000-layers of polished steel with line designs that accentuate its geometric shape. The Titan from Medford Knife & Tool completely flips what is expected from the custom knife world, propelling into a new segment all its own. The all-new Medford Knife & Tool Titan is currently available as part of the Medford OAK Collection for $150,000, with an option to use ETH Cryptocurrency as payment. In addition to the knife itself, the Titan also includes a digital NFT that comes with invitations to special events. Discover the Medford Knife & Tool Titan and set up a consultation with The Medford Guy. Discover The Medford Knife & Tool Titan

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 31, 2021

Louis Vuitton Releases A New $28,200 Bicycle

Ride in style with the new five-figure priced luxury LV Bicycle. With exclusive luxury brands like Louis Vuitton releasing small-batch collections, it makes the product line almost limitless. Collaborations with leaders in various industries also drives up popularity, making what seems to be a normal everyday product practically priceless. Louis Vuitton is adding a new luxury collaboration to its lifestyle collection with Maison TOMBOITE. The Louis Vuitton Bicycle is designed as a simple road bike that invites curious riders, beginner or experienced, to take it on an adventure. The bicycle also incorporates the Louis Vuitton monogram print in leather on the frame, seat, and luggage components with available options to monogram initials on the front end. The Louis Vuitton Bike Collection features an array of color combinations to ensure the perfect pick for everyone. The all-new Louis Vuitton Bike in collaboration with Maison TOMBOITE is currently available through an authorized retailer for $28,200 Shop Louis Vuitton Bicycles Media/Product Information: Louis Vuitton

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 07, 2021

Bentley Motors x Macallan's Join Forces In Pursuit Of A M...

The two luxury leaders in their respected industries are coming together in the name of sustainability. Bentley Motors is known for creating a fleet of luxury-inspired vehicles that offer a premium driving experience no matter the situation. As the brand continues to lead the way in high-end exotic cars, they also collaborate with other brands that share the same quality and attention to detail. Bentley Motors is proud to announce its newest collaboration with the scotch professionals at Macallan’s. The Macallan single malt Scotch whisky and luxury British automotive manufacturer Bentley Motors have revealed a unique partnership that will build on their rich heritage to develop distinctive collaborations and further their vision of a more sustainable future. By bringing together The Macallan’s mastery of whisky-making with Bentley Motors’ expertise in the world of luxury cars, the collaboration will create inspirational new products and immersive happenings that deliver timeless luxury balanced with a commitment to a more progressive world. Check back in for up-to-date news and release information on the newest collaboration between Bentley Motors and Macallan’s. View All Bentley For Sale Bentley Motors Media/Info Source: Bentley Motors For more Lifestyle news, Check out Motor Mansions: The Northeast Mountainside Mansion For Modern Supercars

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 27, 2021

Period Correct Set To Release The New Motorsport 1 Collec...

Celebrate the BMW M1 with the perfect apparel and accessories. In the world of vintage motorsport racing, BMW stands out as an iconic brand, and even more specifically the BMW M1. Celebrated in great fashion, Period Correct is proud to announce its most recent collection release dedicated to the infamous German race car. Just as unique as the liveries displayed on the M1’s, the Period Correct Motorsport 1 Collection features head-to-toe apparel and accessories sporting BMW graphics. Period Correct continues to bridge the gap between the streetwear and automotive industry, making the apparel line perfect for car collectors and enthusiasts. The Period Correct Motorsport 1 Collection is set to release on Saturday at 9 am PST. Check back in for a How to Buy special on Period Correct’s newest collection release. Media Source: Period Correct For more Lifestyle news, Check out The GearBox: The Electrified Taycan Turbo S Ensemble

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 05, 2021

BMW Unveils 'The Ultimate AI Masterpiece'

The iconic BMW art cars are back For years, BMW played a role in the world of art with its collaboration pieces featuring artistic works displayed on the brand’s most coveted models throughout time. As time and technology began to move forward, so was the desire for BMW to continue the artistic partnerships. BMW is now proud to announce the unveiling of its new “Ultimate AI Masterpiece” featuring a new way to display artistic style on the newest BMW models. “The Ultimate AI Masterpiece” virtual art installation was created in partnership with creative technologist Nathan Shipley of Goodby, Silverstein & Partners, and Gary Yeh, Art Collector & Founder of ArtDrunk. The duo leveraged Nvidia’s open-source “StyleGAN” artificial intelligence software to cross-reference over 50,000 images of artwork spanning 900 years of art history and a curated set of 50 works from renowned and emerging contemporary artists BMW has worked with over the past 50 years. Using these inputs as a basis for understanding art, artificial intelligence then generates entirely new works of art, merging what it learned from classical art and the styles noted by contemporary artists. These new works have been projection-mapped onto a virtual rendition of BMW’s range-topping 8 Series Gran Coupe. Image/Information Source: BMW Group For more Lifestyle news, Check out The GearBox: AMG E63 S Wagon Wardrobe

2021-Airstream-International-B2F-Coastal-Cove-with-Aqua-1536x864

By Andrew Nabors – June 15, 2020

Airstream Unveils New Interiors for 2021

Traveling in style doesn't have to involve crowds or security checks. Our Nation is built from the blood and sweat from individuals, therefore, it makes sense to take your home along for the journey. Airstream has been offering such an experience for over 91 years. It is not wise to change what the public wants, so their International travel trailer has been in production for decades. Always staying pertinent to the zeitgeist of interior design, Coastal Cove is their latest offering. Every surface is smooth to the touch with colors that evoke a home by the sea. Heat and A/C ducts are hidden, as are ambient and diffused LED lighting. This comprehensive package is available on the Airstream International Serenity and International Signature, so click the link below to learn more and stay with us for all your Airstream news. Learn More " width="680">

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