McLaren News

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 Tyler Rampersaud – February 22, 2024

2021 McLaren 765LT For Sale In Unique "MSO Light Pistachi...

This stunning spec is nuts (no pun intended). McLaren is known for its lightweight, powerful, dynamic, and beautiful supercars, and its MSO (McLaren Special Operations) program allows customers to add bespoke style and unique touches to their machine that already boasts track and back road prowess. One of MSO’s most interesting creations is this 2021 McLaren 765LT, and it’s listed for sale. Its exterior color is undoubtedly the biggest eye catcher: it’s a pale green called MSO Light Pistachio. The exterior also features a roof scoop and carbon fiber aerodynamic elements. However, it doesn’t stop at the exterior. Yellow brake calipers hint at the equally unique interior, which is finished in yellow leather, with accents in navy blue Alcantara, hints of burgundy Alcantara, and blue-tinted carbon fiber. With a beautiful and unique exterior color, and loads of optional extras, this is one of the best and most intriguing McLarens for sale. View the listing of this 2021 McLaren 765LT for sale by clicking below. View Listing Image Source: Carrio Motor Cars

By Tyler Rampersaud – January 03, 2024

Two-Tone MSO 2022 McLaren 765LT Spider Listed For Sale

This bespoke creation is sure to turn heads. McLaren is known for a lineup full of lightweight, agile, and powerful supercars with a driver-focused character, racing pedigree and heritage, and a proud 60-year history. However, its aptitude for delivering style and luxury in its supercars has elevated since the introduction of the MSO (McLaren Special Operations) bespoke program. With MSO, clients are able to configure McLarens with special paintwork and liveries, as well as bespoke interiors, and this 2022 McLaren 765LT Spider for sale, available at McLaren Philadelphia, features some of MSO’s most ambitious offerings. Immediately noticeable is the two-tone livery, combining Tokyo Cyan with Tarmac Black, transitioning in the middle with a hexagon-patterned gradient. The same vibrant Tokyo Cyan hue decorates the brake calipers, as well as in accents throughout the black interior. Along with the MSO details, the car features a long list of optional equipment as well, making for a supercar that is simultaneously powerful, agile, track-focused, lightweight, stylish, and luxurious. For any McLaren enthusiast who wants a supercar that delivers exhilarating open-top performance and turns heads with unique, bespoke style, view the price and listing of this 2022 McLaren 765LT Spider for sale by clicking below. View Price And Listing Image Source: McLaren Philadelphia

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 11, 2023

Volcano Red 2014 McLaren P1 For Sale

Showcasing an exterior finish unlike any other example, this early production McLaren P1 could be yours!

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 23, 2023

NBA Star's Former MSO Satin Chicane 2022 McLaren 765LT Fo...

Built in collaboration with McLaren's bespoke service, this MSO 765LT Spider is unlike any other on the road.

By duPont Registry – April 28, 2023

Highly Modified 2019 McLaren 720S Listed For Sale

It wears a Midnight Purple exterior wrap.

By Tyler Rampersaud – April 11, 2023

McLaren 720S Spider With 765LT Bodykit Listed For Sale

This supercar is complete with a special touch.

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 16, 2023

Bespoke Chicane Grey Race-Ready 2019 McLaren 720S GT3X Fo...

Fit with state-of-the-art aero and performance, this McLaren 720S GT3X is ready to take on any circuit around the world.

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 24, 2023

Grey Metallic Over Saddle Brown 2020 McLaren Speedtail Fo...

This is a McLaren owner's dream of acquiring one of the most exclusive hypercar releases from the U.K.-based automotive manufacturer.

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 03, 2023

Bespoke Widebody 2019 McLaren 720S SEMA Build For Sale

Enhancing styling and aerodynamics courtesy of Creative Bespoke, this McLaren 720S is unlike any other on the road. While McLaren Automotive is known to embody racing DNA into its lineup of desirable supercars and hypercars, visual and performance upgrades take the driving experience to a whole new level. Showcasing its talents of transforming everyday cars into modern masterpieces, the team at Creative Bespoke of Phoenix, AZ continues to grace the automotive world with one-of-a-kind builds. Creative Bespoke is proud to present this modified 2019 McLaren 720S as part of its growing inventory of custom supercars. The exterior of this McLaren 720S features a full Zacoe carbon fiber widebody package, using hints of exposed gloss carbon fiber to accentuate the bright yellow finish. Specially built for SEMA, the kit replaces the front bumper, fenders, rear bumper, side panels, hood, and rear wing. A set of MVForged Aero+ wheels sit perfectly on an aggressive ride height thanks to Novice lowering springs. MUST-READ: Grey Metallic Over Saddle Brown 2020 McLaren Speedtail For Sale Opening the butterfly-style doors reveals a completely custom-matched yellow interior package fit with newly designed sports bucket seats. The new owner will find added hints of Creative Bespoke branding throughout the yellow and black cabin, from the headrests to the floorboard entrance. The monochrome driver-oriented interior presents the perfect space for anyone looking to turn heads at the next car meet or rally. The 720S generates 710 horsepower and 568 ft-lbs of torque from McLaren’s 4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8, which has been modified with a one-of-one custom Race F1 exhaust. The 2019 McLaren 720S Carbon Edition from Creative Bespoke is currently available for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. VIEW PRICE AND LISTING

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 18, 2022

Check The Spec: 2020 McLaren Speedtail Finished in MSO Be...

A chance to own 1 of the 106 McLaren Speedtail examples. News of the electrified McLaren Speedtail first shocked the automotive world in October 2018 as the brand’s most advanced limited-production hypercar. The highly-exclusive McLaren first began its production by hand-selecting preferred clients and qualified buyers for the 106-chassis awaiting assembly. The hypercar professionals at Marshall Goldman Beverly Hills are proud to feature this magnificent 2020 McLaren Speedtail #91 as part of its inventory of classic and modern collector-grade vehicles. MSO Bespoke Graphite Exterior Finish duPont REGISTRY The elongated body of the McLaren Speedtail offers incredible aerodynamics and even includes a Velocity Mode setting that makes three fundamental changes to its appearance. The exterior features a beautiful Bespoke/Heritage Graphite finish from the creative team at McLaren Special Operations (MSO), which also incorporates gloss carbon fiber exterior components to achieve its lightweight design. With aerodynamics at the focus of the Speedtail, the build showcases its attention to detail with aero disk front wheels and retractable side mirrors. The lightweight wheels pair perfectly with special bespoke Pirelli P-Zero tires and McLaren performance brakes to help control its 250mph+ top speed. The timeless exterior of the Speedtail blends modern styling with historic accents from icons like the McLaren F1. McLaren Orange and Carbon Black 3-Seat Interior Layout duPont REGISTRY Behind the dihedral doors of the McLaren Speedtail lies a comfortable high-tech interior that features the same unique three-seat configuration from the F1. While the passenger sport-style seats present a modest carbon black design, the center driver set uses McLaren's famous Orange color code as its inspiration. The technologically advanced dash layout uses a series of LCD screens to operate functions like the control unit, side mirrors, and entertainment options. The Speedtail’s dash design also incorporates the factory orange color scheme to pay homage to the historic lineage of McLaren. The interior layout highlights the use of lightweight carbon fiber as the main material that makes up the tub of the McLaren Speedtail. All-in-all the driver-oriented interior offers a minimal look that lets its performance do all the talking. Combined 1,035-Horsepower and 848-ft lbs of Torque duPont REGISTRY At the pinnacle of McLaren engineering, the Speedtail features a hybrid powertrain that offers unmatched performance. The 4.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V8 includes an additional battery borrowed from the McLaren Formula E division, which makes an astonishing 312-horsepower by itself. With a combined 1,035-horsepower and 848-ft lbs of torque, the Speedtail launches from 0-60mph in only 2.9-seconds with help from a state-of-the-art 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. This 2020 McLaren Speedtail from Marshall Goldman is currently available on duPont REGISTRY with 722-miles for $3,185,900. View the vehicle listing on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more upcoming Check The Spec specials. VIEW VEHICLE LISTING

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