Mansory

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

A customized white Mansory G-Class SUV with open doors, black wheels, and a striking red and white interior is displayed in a showroom, capturing the luxury style of both Mansory and the Speranza G-Class Convertible.

By Tyler Rampersaud – May 07, 2025

Mansory Unveils New Speranza G-Class Convertible

Mansory reveals a new creation in one of the world’s greatest luxury automotive capitals. Monaco, one of the world’s greatest luxury hubs, is also one of the world’s most historically celebrated motorsport destinations and a capital for the greatest luxury cars, supercars, hypercars and exotics. The coastal city-state is having its annual “Top Marques” show, an exclusive event where the greatest luxury vehicles, gadgets, and jewelry gather in a stunning display, and manufacturers in the luxury automotive space are displaying their greatest new creations at the show, like Mansory, a specialist in over-the-top customization, eye-catching bespoke vehicles, and opulent style and craftsmanship. Its latest creation, being displayed at this year’s Top Marques, is the new Mansory Speranza, a complete vehicle conversion project that transforms Mercedes-Benz’s iconic G-Class into an ultra-luxurious, head-turning convertible. Displayed alongside Mansory’s other ambitious customization and individualization projects, the new Speranza completely modifies the structure of the G-Class to allow for a convertible roof. Reminiscent of the G-Class Cabriolet models of past generations, the new Speranza offers drivers the style, luxury, and off-road capabilities of the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon with open-air driving excitement. In addition, custom wheels, and an extensive body kit clad with exposed cabron fiber make for a unique, sporty look that Mansory vehicles are known for. With tweaks from Mansory to the turbochargers, exhaust, and downpipes, the new Mansory Speranza boasts an increased power figure of 820 horsepower from its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine. Mansory’s incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail is included in the interior of the new Speranza, with quilted leather upholstery and carbon fiber accents. As an ultra-luxurious open-top conversion of one of the world’s most iconic luxury SUVs, the new Mansory Speranza is one of the most ambitious, masterful, and opulent customizations of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. View All Mercedes-Benz G-Class For Sale Image Source: Mansory

By Tyler Rampersaud – June 21, 2024

Mansory Unveils New Full Conversion For The Mercedes-AMG ...

Mansory takes a high-performance hybrid to the next level. Recently, Mercedes-AMG unveiled the new S 63 E PERFORMANCE, the most powerful S-Class yet, which combines a twin-turbocharged V8 engine with a plug-in hybrid system to muster an incredible 880 horsepower, turning the sumptuous luxury sedan into a formidable performance machine. However, Mansory is known for taking exclusive, powerful, and luxurious vehicles to the next level, and it’s now done that with the S 63 E PERFORMANCE. Visual customization, interior personalization, and a significant performance upgrade set the Mansory upgrade suite for the Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE apart as a unique and distinguished custom luxury performance sedan. Visually, the Mansory conversion for the luxury sedan features a carbon fiber hood and a body kit made completely of carbon fiber, adding a racing-inspired edge. Additional air intakes contribute to a sportier look and enhanced cooling as well. Power is also increased from 880 horsepower to 950, giving the hybrid luxury sedan supercar-level performance. As a result, it gets from 0-60 in just 2.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 180 mph. The upgrade comes thanks to a new control unit with modified mapping, a high-performance exhaust system, and other tweaks. With its custom appearance, luxurious, personalizable interior, and incredible upgraded performance, Mansory adds flair to the already-amazing Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE. View All Mercedes-AMG S 63s For Sale Image Source: Mansory

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By Tyler Rampersaud – June 04, 2024

Mansory Reveals New 1-of-1 P900 EWB Gold Edition G-Wagon

Mansory delivers incomparable automotive opulence. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is an automotive luxury legend with an unmistakable silhouette, renowned performance capabilities, and sumptuous appointments. However, Mansory, known for taking the highest echelon of exotic and luxury cars to the next level with its customization ability, took the G-Class to an incredible level with its latest creation: the new Mansory P900 EWB Gold Edition. Based on the iconic Mercedes-Benz G Wagon, the P900 extends the wheelbase by roughly 8 inches to accommodate greater rear seat leg room and converts the rear doors to feature coach-style opening and soft-closing for added luxury and head-turning factor. In addition, the interior is completely overhauled with exposed carbon fiber, beautifully quilted leather, and reclining rear seats with folding tables. However, the most prominent feature, hence the name, is the stunning gold color seen throughout. The exterior, including Mansory’s body kit and custom wheels, is entirely finished in gold, with gold accents also making their way into the stunning bespoke interior. With an absolutely opulent configuration and painstaking customization work, this new one-of-one from Mansory is a step above the typical Mercedes-Benz G Wagon. View All Mercedes-AMG G 63s For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by MANSORY (@mansory)

By Tyler Rampersaud – November 02, 2023

Mansory Transforms The New Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE

MANSORY has redefined the new Mercedes-AMG S63 with carbon enhancements, boosting its power to a staggering 880 hp. MANSORY, a titan in the realm of luxury automotive refinement, has once again pushed the envelope of design and performance with their latest offering based on the new Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE, the new hybrid luxury sedan from AMG and the most powerful S-Class yet. The company's comprehensive vehicle conversion touches upon every aspect, from the aesthetics to the engineering, transforming the Mercedes-AMG S63 E PERFORMANCE into a machine that's as formidable in a boardroom parking lot as it is on the Autobahn. At first glance, the vehicle commands attention with its carbon fiber enhancements. The hood of the S-Class, now entirely carbon, boasts additional air intakes, a clear nod to the vehicle's increased hunger for speed and cooling efficiency. MANSORY's dedication to carbon doesn't stop there; each body attachment has been meticulously crafted from the lightweight, high-strength material. This not only improves the vehicle's dynamics but also cements its status as a masterpiece of modern automotive design. But MANSORY's craft extends beyond the external flourishes. The heart of this beast, the already potent powertrain of the Mercedes-AMG S63 E PERFORMANCE, has been tuned to achieve awe-inspiring numbers: 880 horsepower and a torque of 1,099 lb/ft. This significant increase in power is achieved purely through modifications to the combustion engine, preserving the integrity and smoothness of the original hybrid drive. This refined powertrain promises a top speed of 199 mph and an acceleration time from 0 to 60 in a blistering 2.8 seconds, firmly planting this saloon in the pantheon of high-performance vehicles. The wheels, a vital aspect of any performance car, are no less spectacular. Light alloy wheels in the "Type FD.15 Black Diamond" design, sized at 22 inches, not only add to the visual drama but also complement the vehicle's enhanced aerodynamics. With tyres sized 265/30 R22 at the front and 305/25 R22 at the rear, they ensure that the car’s increased power is translated effectively onto the tarmac. Yet, what's power without control? MANSORY has re-engineered the vehicle’s aerodynamics, creating a silhouette that not only exudes visual impact but also contributes to an increase in downforce, leading to an improvement in cornering performance. From the newly designed front apron with its integrated front lip to the full carbon side skirts and the bespoke carbon spoiler at the rear, each modification serves a dual purpose – augmenting both form and function. Inside, MANSORY has exercised their renowned craftsmanship to ensure the interior is as luxurious as the exterior is striking. Customers can tailor their cabin with an array of fine leathers, with colors matched to their preference, echoing the exterior's customization. Carbon inlays, a carbon leather sports steering wheel, and aluminium pedals all bear the MANSORY logo, serving as a constant reminder of the exclusivity of this high-performance saloon. With its impressive performance figures, carbon fibre bodywork, and bespoke interior, it stands as a testament to what's achievable when visionary design meets mechanical prowess. It’s clear that MANSORY has once again established a new benchmark in the realm of luxury vehicle tuning, offering an unparalleled combination of performance, luxury, and style. View All Mercedes-Benz S-Classes For Sale Image Source: Mansory

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