Mercedes-Benz 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 Edward Jones – June 25, 2021

The 13th Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing Boat Unveiled

They've done it again. As is tradition, the new Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing boat has been unveiled for the year and it's absolutely breathtaking. The new Cigarette 41' Nighthawk AMG Black Series special edition boat was unveiled alongside its twin, a Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series. Both are finished in the vibrant Magnabeam orange finish and feature black accents from the front to back, or bow to stern. This special edition boat is actually the first in its model range to be powered by five racing-grade outboard engines. These five engines are 4.6-liter V8 Mercury Racing 450R engines, and together they create a total of 2,250 horsepower. That power allows the boat to propel to a top speed of over 90 mph. Signifying this boat's status as a collaborative effort are touches like the AMG logo on the sides, and the handpainted smaller AMG logos towards the bow in a repeating pattern. With a center console layout, the Cigarette 41' Nighthawk AMG Black Series' helm is loaded with technology like three Garmin 8617 displays. For passengers, there's plenty of seating, especially at the forward helm where two rows of three seats can be found. Cigarette 41' Nighthawk AMG Black Series. Passengers can also release at the bow bench seating. Loaded with technology and power, the new Cigarette 41' Nighthawk AMG Black Series is a marine masterpiece. See All AMG GTs For Sale Source: Mercedes-Benz

By Edward Jones – June 23, 2021

New 2021 Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing Boat Teased

The 13th iteration is coming soon. Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing have just teased their next collaborative creation. Since 2007, these two companies have been creating a special boat each year and this year they will be showcasing their 13th example. It looks as though this new boat will be based on the new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, which we are all for. Be sure to stay with us for more information regarding the upcoming Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing boat. In the meantime, you can check out the previous boats that these two companies have released. You can view them from the links below, according to their year. 2015 Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing Boat 2016 Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing Boat 2017 Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing Boat 2018 Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing Boat 2019 Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing Boat 2020 Mercedes-AMG x Cigarette Racing Boat See All AMG GTs For Sale https://www.instagram.com/p/CQd_T6uBdIO/ Source: Cigarette Racing/Facebook, Mercedes-AMG/Instagram

By Andrew Nabors – February 14, 2019

Mercedes-AMG & Cigarette Racing Unveil the 41' AMG Carbon...

Once you are done with Valentine's Day candy, head down to the Miami Boat Show for something truly sweet. It has been a dozen years since Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing joined forces. Their latest creation is inspired by the AMG GT 63 S 4-door coupe, so the Cigarette Racing 41' AMG Carbon Edition looks fast at any angle. Powered by a quartet of Mercury 400R outboards, their combined output of 1,600 horsepower offers a top speed of 83 mph. The hull and most of the deck are made of carbon fiber, which allows it to be 500 lbs lighter than the GT R Cigarette from 2017. The rudder, decking, roof lining and the hard top are also made from the wonder material. It is rated for 20 people while cruising or 8 at top speed. The unique paint is graphite grey mango, a shade that is exclusive to the AMG 4-door. Navigation is handled by three Garmin 17" touchscreens that also handle engine data and the ambient lighting. Guests won't be burned by the seating, as it is "Cigarette Cool" synthetic. If you want this level of perfection on land, click the link below to find an AMG GT near you and stay with us for all your Mercedes news. Shop Mercedes-AMG GT For Sale Related: Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Pricing Revealed Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Breaks 4-Door Ring Record

By Edward Jones – September 28, 2016

Mercedes-Benz Premieres VIP Aircraft and New Yacht

At the Monaco Yacht Show Mercedes-Benz has premiered two luxurious vehicles, both of which were are not meant to travel on land. For air travel, they have unveiled the final interior for their upcoming VIP aircraft, which is being created with Lufthansa Technik. For the water, there is the ARROW460 - Granturismo, which made its maiden voyage back in April 2016.The Mercedes-Benz VIP Aircraft InteriorThe cabin of this luxurious aircraft will surprise most, due to its futuristic and smooth design. Looking through the images of its cabin found below, you'll see that Mercedes has created a cabin that is unlike any in the skies today. Smooth transitions connect the floor to the wall, and the wall to the floor, with the only visual separation between the difference in materials.Area in the aircraft include a galley, kitchen, private room, bathroom, lounge, dining area and a bedroom. In the bedroom and bathroom there is an open-plan design that features a free-standing shower, complete with transparent walls. As for the furniture in each room, expect the finest of materials and the utmost comfort, as you'd expect from Mercedes-Benz. And, like the S-Class, this aircraft includes the Magic Sky tech in the panels, giving the passengers the ability to dim the windows from black to transparent."Together with Mercedes-Benz Style we plan to target this innovative concept at a private global clientele with a strong affinity for unique design. It is precisely customers from the VIP and VVIP sector who today want innovative and extraordinary design solutions for their aeroplanes. With our modular concept we offer the ideal solution for the most discerning demands, whether that be for private or business use," said Wieland Timm, Vice President Sales VIP & Special Mission Aircraft at Lufthansa Technik AG, in a press release from Mercedes-Benz.ARROW460 - Granturismo YachtThanks to a joint project between Mercedes-Benz and Silver Arrows Marine, the ARROW460 - Granturismo was created. This luxury and sporty boat acts like the AMG of the seas, combining power with luxury. The ten passengers that are able to fit in this boat's cabin will be able to enjoy the view of the see with or without the wind in their hair. This is made possible through the side windows and windscreen that can be retracted.Inside the cabin, passengers can enjoy Mercedes-Benz-level luxuries in the spacious interior. Due to its design, this boat is perfect for day cruises and even multi-day cruises-- yes, a bathroom is included."By blending the maritime and automotive world with their respective design idioms, technologies and ideas we have created a new standard for motor yachts. The 'ARROW460 – Granturismo' blends maritime engineering artistry with charismatic design and perfect elegance, familiar from the world of Mercedes-Benz," said Ron Gibbs, Chairman of Silver Arrows Marine, in the press release.View All Mercedes-Benz For Sale

By Edward Jones – April 18, 2016

Mercedes-Benz Style Introduces New Luxury Yacht: Arrow460...

Mercedes-Benz might be known for road-going vehicles, but they've been hard at work trying to conquer the sea. Their latest concept, the Arrow460-Granturismo or "Silver Arrow of the Seas", is a luxury yacht that combines the performance found in their cars with "unique innovations from the boat industry." It recently took its maiden voyage off of the coast of Nice. "In developing the new motor yacht, we have transferred our expertise to the marine industry, creating something never seen before in the process," said Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design Daimler AG. "The 'Silver Arrow of the Seas' stands for modern luxury, avant-garde style and comfortable elegance. The yacht embodies the Mercedes-Benz's progressive, dynamic design philosophy of sensual purity on the water. Or, to put it another way, it is hot and cool in one, and stands for emotion and intelligence."The boat measures in at 14-meters long, with two Yanmar 6LY3-ETP diesel engines powering it, each rated at 480 hp (960 hp total output). Amenities include retractable windows, extendable tables and beds, bathroom unit, separate dressing room, A/C system, high-quality audio system, "wine cellar" and an ice-making machine. After listing off those features, it seems to me like the Arrow460 is what an S-Class would be if it were a boat."Together with Silver Arrows Marine we have managed to develop a totally new boat concept. By virtue of maximum variability, the yacht combines the advantages of an open boat with the generous interior and privacy of a cabin cruiser," continued Wagener. "It weds charismatic design with perfect functionality, much in the same way as is familiar from our road vehicles. As such, the 'Arrow460–Granturismo' is sure to cause a stir on the seas and at marinas throughout the world in the coming years."After seeing this boat, I can't wait to see what other boats Mercedes-Benz Style will create in the future. And, who knows, maybe Mercedes boats may become a thing.Mercedes-Benzs For Sale

By Edward Jones – February 12, 2016

New Mercedes-AMG GT3 Cigarette Boat Revealed

Back on February 2, we were teased with an upcoming speed boat that is the result of a collaboration between Mercedes-AMG and the Cigarette Racing Team. Today, the anticipated boat has been revealed at the 2016 Miami International Boat Show.This new 41-foot SD GT3 boat was inspired by the Mercedes-AMG GT3 racecar and is being hailed as "the most powerful "open performance" boat ever produced" by the Cigarette Racing Team. Powering the boat are two Mercury Racing engines, capable of producing 1,100 hp. That's like powering the boat with two Bugatti Veyrons. It measures in at 41-ft long, obviously, with an 11-foot beam. With this size, a weight of over 20,000 lbs and the aforementioned power, it can reach speeds of over 100 mph."The 41' SD GT3 embodies our brand's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship and once again shows the strength of our collaboration with Mercedes-AMG." - Skip Braver, President and CEO of Cigarette Racing TeamThe interior of the boat is laid with teak wood flooring and full extreme marine grade leather, which is a first for Cigarette. Also installed is a user interface that includes three 17-inch displays that feature Garmin and Cigarette navigation and audio.If you're looking for a price for this one-of-a-kind boat, you'll have to find that out upon request. But, if you'd like to see it for yourself, it's on display at the Miami International Boat Show. While you're there, stop by the duPont REGISTRY booth to pick up a free magazine and learn more about our company.Mercedes-AMG GTs For Sale

By Edward Jones – February 02, 2016

Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing Showcase New Boat

Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing have been collaborating for years now, creating some of the most aggressive and impressive boats the water's ever seen. For instance, in 2014 they unveiled the Mercedes-AMG Cigarette Racing Vision GT Concept Boat, which cost $1.5 million. And, in 2015, they launched the Mercedes-AMG GT boat, which can be seen in the video below.And they're back at it again-- for the 6th consecutive year.Their mission? To "Ignore Gravity."Today, they teased a new 41' SD GT3 that will be on display, alongside the Mercedes-AMG GT3 race car that inspired it, at the Miami International Boat Show February 11-15. Be sure to check it out at the boat show and stop by our tent.Mercedes-Benzs For Sale

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