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

Mercedes-Benz News

Mercedes-Benz news fromduPont REGISTRY News, updated daily, covering the S-Class, the Maybach range, the AMG models, the G-Class and the electric line-up. Our reporting takes in reveals, first drives, bespoke builds and the auction results that set collector values. Mercedes-Benz competes across more segments than almost any rival, so the news here runs unusually wide. Our marketplace supplies the part most publications leave out entirely. A great many of these cars are listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, which puts a review and a real asking price side by side. For Mercedes-Benz news today, and the luxury car market news around it, start here.

By Edward Jones – February 22, 2021

Watch the “The Spirit of AMG: The Silber-Sau” Short Film ...

Back in 1971, the Spa Francorchamps 24 Hours race had a bit of an underdog amongst its competitors: the Red PiG. This nickname was given to the first AMG race car ever created and it was actually a modified Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3. The Red Pig defied all odds and not only crossed the finish line but also came in first place in its class and second place overall. After the race concluded, the Red Pig was unfortunately sold and destroyed. While we may never see the famed underdog again, the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Irvine, California has created the genuinely outstanding "Silber-Sau," a one-to-one homage to the Red Pig. While it is based on the original 300 SEL body, it does feature a more powerful 6.8-liter V8 engine, as opposed to the original's 6.3-liter V8. To celebrate the Silver Pig, NativeFour created “The Spirit of AMG: The Silber-Sau," a short film starring Magnus Walker behind the wheel of the homage car. You can see it for yourself by clicking play up above. You can also check out their previous short film titled "Ascension," which also stars Magnus Walker. Source: NativeFour

By Andrew Nabors – February 19, 2021

2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Price, Specs, Photos, & Review

2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Price Ernest Hemingway postulated that the only true sports are: Motor Racing, Bullfighting, and Mountaineering, but we feel that a Mercedes G63 AMG for sale should be included. While we can't speak for pugilism against other mammals, the 2021 Mercedes-AMG G63 price is affordable for the abilities it offers. Locking all three differentials and spooling two turbos is a ticket for adventure. Up until a decade ago, many manufacturers offered body-on-frame SUVs with incredible power. Mercedes-AMG is the only brand able to offer a bargain 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 MSRP $156,450. Two main factors contribute to the price of every Mercedes G63 AMG for sale. It represents incredibly luxury and power in the same package. The other aspect is that it is very capable off-road. These attributes are worthy of the money in their own right, but combined into a snazzy SUV you will have an investment that doesn't depreciate. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Review In the past, we would compare the G63 to other turbocharged full-size 4WDs. Because all lesser brands have been forced to compromise, this 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Review is the last of its kind. Up until a decade ago, many manufacturers offered body-on-frame SUVs with incredible power. Now we had a chance to experience what happens when engineers are unencumbered. Upon first glance, you will realize that the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 horsepower is more than adequate. Pushing their 4-liter V8 to new heights, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 horsepower is conservatively rated at 577. Holding your left foot to the brake spools the turbos in order to deliver 627 lb-ft of torque at all wheels. With this motivation at your command, the wide AMG wheels offer an incredible steering response. Don't lose your head with all the new technology, as the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 is still tall and narrow. As such, care must be taken in evasive actions. Even with meaty anti-roll bars, you need to chase the body roll through the corners. Therefore, your best 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 will be had once you spend a few hours on flooded tarmac. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Specs You have seen them ford rivers and conquer incredible ascents. Nothing can compare to these abilities in real life, and that is why everyone should find peace in the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 specs. While capable of much more, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 top speed is limited to 137 mph. Tires designed for mud and sand need the flexibility that high speeds don't offer. To appeal to the Autobahn enthusiasts the Driver's package ups the speed limiter to 149 mph. Behind the wheel it responds better than any previous G63 AMG SUV. Those that malign body-on-frame chassis really miss the confidence and strength felt by your body. Both the body and chassis are high-strength plate steel. It goes where you command and it does what you want. Thanks to the latest software it reverts to a docile demeanor unless ordered. Before going hammer down you should consider the following attributes: Price: $156,450 Engine: 4-liter V8 Twin Turbo Transmission: 9-speed Automatic Horsepower: 577 hp Torque: 627 lb-ft 0-60: 4.5 seconds 1/4 Mile: 12.5 seconds @ 115 mph Top Speed: 149 mph 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Engine Reverse flow allows the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 engine to conserve heat and offer incredible mpg. Placed within the engine valley, a pair of symmetric turbochargers receive exhaust pulses direct from the heads. Their dual-scroll design equalizes the pulses to each turbine wheel while eliminating turbo lag. At the expense of a unique exhaust soundtrack, this small bore and meaty stroke makes a heaping amount of torque. Because 202 Mercedes G63 AMG computer controls boost at all times, the turbos keep the intake at a slight positive to be ready for action. This is only possible by having active cam phasing on all four DOHC camshafts. Watch the Mercedes-AMG G63 6×6 on “Inside AMG” The 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 engine is constantly adjusting all four camshafts to optimize torque while minimizing harmful emissions. Given the help from twin turbochargers it is able to offer thrifty fuel economy when cruising and big power when provoked. The wizards at AMG are able to open the exhaust and streamline the intake despite local laws for civility. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 BRABUS Before you make a decision on a Mercedes-AMG G63 for sale, please consider the following. Brabus is responsible for building incredibly powerful cars and trucks. By reengineering the powertrain and suspension, the Brabus 800 Widestar is the ultimate G63 for sale. A limited-edition of 900 Widestars made use of the AMG V12 and two turbos to offer 900 horsepower. Each example is the legacy of Bodo Buschmann, a legend in the German tuning community. The best attributes can be had individually for those who would like to remain more inconspicuous. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Transmission In order to be the most competent 4WD on the market, a nine-speed automatic is the only Mercedes-AMG G63 transmission. A two-speed transfer case sends full-time 4WD to all wheels while offering a 2.93 low range. Locking it along with the front and rear differentials provides uninterrupted power from the pistons to the pavement. Shift speeds and timing are heavily influenced by the driving mode, and because it is not a dual-clutch design it can skip several gears when down or up-shifting. With a relatively tight torque converter, the G63 AMG 0-60 is consistently under 4.5 seconds. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Interior Forget what you know about going off road. Yes, the G63 is capable or incredible attributes in every situation, but that doesn't mean its uncomfortable. With ample room for family and cargo, the Mercedes-AMG G63 interior is practical and plush. The upright nature of the body lends itself to right angles. Multiple layers of steel allow the interior to be as quiet as a library, and evoke the strength of a bank vault. When the second generation was on the drawing board, engineers took every opportunity to remove compromises. The layout was based on optimal ergonomics before their focus was on eliminating rattles and squeaks. Adding steel wherever it was needed allowed them to chase NVH problems up and out of the interior in order to offer the best experience in full-size 4WDs. The interior is a main reason why used Mercedes G63 prices are as strong as ever. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Brakes Going fast is fun but stopping faster is even more entertaining. The rotors of all Mercedes-AMG G63 brakes measure 375mm, or 14.7". While other 4WDs use the brakes to channel power to wheels that are slipping, the AMG class also uses them to hold hills when ascending or coming down the mountain. With great power comes great responsibility, so the stability system integrates all three differential locks. If they are open, the electric brake control module can use each rotor independently. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Gets Massive Makeover 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Standout Features The most notable examples is the Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6. Adding another rear axle allowed this bruiser to offer six-wheel drive thanks to four locking differentials. It set the precedent for using portal axles that continues to this day. Owners demanded a 4x4 version with the same ground clearance, and it arrived as the Mercedes-AMG G63 4x4 Squared. Gear reduction at each corner makes it very capable off-road with more ground clearance than any other 4WD. Because the first generation examples of the G63 AMG lasted over three decades, engineers made sure the 2021 Mercedes-AMG G63 is built to last. The team must have known the story parallels the Boing B52 Stratofortress, so they built a body and chassis devoid of NVH. It is so strong that Maybach chose it for the basis of a new Landaulet. Transporting VIPs and politicians can be done in style with the plush Mercedes-Maybach G650, and on the other end of the spectrum you can be secured in an armored Mercedes G63 AMG for sale. Mercedes-AMG G63 For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – February 15, 2021

2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Interior Offers Unparalleled L...

Loaded with amenities first seen on the new S-Class for sale, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class interior offers unparalleled luxury. Vitamin E plays a major part in the health of your skin, eyes, and brain. As the E-Class family represents their most popular models, nothing was left to chance. If you haven't experienced the latest S-Class, it defines a new experience for all occupants. Starting with the steering wheel, touchpads make the systems easy to navigate. The massive screen is able to be reconfigured while keeping important gauges in sight. Energizing Package + learns your moods, and it adjusts every aspect to keep you alert and happy. Taking considerations from weather, sunlight, and time of day, the car tunes the audio, driving mode, and climate to your tastes. The seat kinetics prevent a sore back on long drives, and its constant motion is slow and imperceptible while literally working in the background. If we were to compile how much innovation arrives in every E-Class this post would be 637 pages long. Take a look at the exterior styling in detail then you won't want anything less. Mercedes-Benz E-Class For Sale Image (C) Daimler A.G.

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 10, 2021

Xiaomi Unveils The Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 Mercedes-AMG...

Every Formula 1 fan has seen them, the electric scooters driven throughout the events by team drivers and members like Mercedes-AMG Petronas. Well, now is your chance to ride like Lewis Hamilton on the new Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team Edition by Xiaomi. The new personal scooter combines design elements from the renowned championship-winning team with Xiaomi’s world-leading engineering. The styling includes a design livery straight from the season’s current race car with the mantra ‘The Best or Nothing’ scripted on the frame. The Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 is manageable through a smartphone via a smart app to help track the 28-mile range provided at full charge. The speed is generated by three modes gradually increasing power, which in sport mode with max out at 15mph. Learn more about the Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team Edition by clicking the link below, and stay tuned for a How To Buy special. For more Gear news, Check out Wheels X Wardrobe: Valentine’s Day Date Night In The Ferrari LaFerrari

By Andrew Nabors – February 09, 2021

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA Arrives Loaded With New Technology

From anticipating your radio station to learning your handwriting, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA arrives loaded with new technology. The latest MBUX infotainment system remembers every input you make, along with the time and other variables. In just a few hours of driving, this new crossover SUV will anticipate your choices. Two touchpads on the steering wheel make the menus easy to browse, and you can configure your most-used systems on the home screen while also eliminating clutter. Integrating your itinerary, the car can also act as your digital receptionist. Ford and GM have doubled-down their integration of Alexa Auto by Amazon, so we'll compare both systems for you soon. In the meantime check out these great offers on the new GLA and check out this preview of the all-electric EQA lineup! Mercedes-Benz GLA For Sale Image (C) Mercedes-Benz USA

By Andrew Nabors – February 03, 2021

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA Is Compact Luxury

Shorter but wider than before, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA is compact luxury. By chopping off the front and rear overhangs, stylists started with wheels that are closer to the edges of this new crossover. Sarah Ellser offers insights offered by the longer wheelbase, such as more legroom for all passengers. Hard lines and creases were shaved to bring the GLA in-line with their newest design language. Even for those that don't want the power of the AMG models, the AMG-line upgrades to the body make the GLA-Class stand out from every other competitor. The GLA outsold all other Mercedes-Benz models last year, and that is why they made sure the 2021 model year raised the bar for the brand. Starting under $40,000, they are a bargain for the best safety and quality in this segment. For a more in-depth comparison check out GLA: Old vs New. Mercedes-Benz GLA For Sale Image (C) Mercedes-Benz USA

By Andrew Nabors – February 01, 2021

2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen Receives Indigenous Restyling

Oaxaca sits atop the spine of southern Mexico, and it retains many aspects of Pre-Columbian life. To see their abilities on the world's most capable 4WD, watch as a 2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen receives indigenous restyling. María and Jacobo Ángeles bestow this G550 with colors and textures that can be seen in the region, the only aspect lacking is the amazing cuisine that the region has to offer. This is just a small glimpse of what the G Manufaktur program is capable of, so click the button for an adventure unlike any other. There are nice changes for this year, so check out the Brabus Widestar! Browse Mercedes-Benz G550 For Sale

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 29, 2021

Start Your Morning Off Right With Mercedes-Benz x Spotify...

We all have those moments when music can decide your mood for the day, and with so many options, it’s hard to choose what will start you off right for the commute. Mercedes-Benz thought outside the box to make the already accommodating models in its fleet to help make the perfect music selection. The German auto manufacturer teamed up with Spotify to create stream-able mixed tapes that include music sourced to radiate happiness and energy. Start your morning off right by Mercedes-Benz x Spotify mixed tapes to your daily listening schedule. For more Mercedes-Benz news, Check out Puma Unveils Spring/Summer 2021 Motorsport Partner Collection https://www.instagram.com/p/CKoF6zbsgCm/

By Andrew Nabors – January 28, 2021

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA: Old vs New

Being one of the world's most popular SUVs, let's look at the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA: old vs new. What first arrived in late 2014 has never failed to disappoint. This compact crossover can be had with efficient 4-cylinder power, turbocharged AMG All-Wheel-Drive, and a snappy dual-clutch. Although incredibly rare, a few examples of the GLA 250 were offered with a six-speed manual. Having all the tech and safety you need, the first generation Mercedes-Benz GLA makes a great daily driver. It will soon be going all-electric, so check out the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQA lineup. Mercedes-Benz GLA For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – January 26, 2021

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQA Lineup Preview

We are all awaiting the first electric SUV from the world's oldest automaker. If you see an efficient crossover in your future, let's watch the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQA lineup preview on YouTube. While most electrics are arriving fully-dressed with AWD, the EQA 250 is Front Wheel Drive. Capable of DC charging from 10% to 80% in 30 minutes. The 66.5 kWh battery offers a range of at least 250 miles, so click the button below to find our dealer near you. Mercedes-Benz For Sale In case you missed it, here is the Mercedes-Benz EQS e-Drive in action! Image (C) Daimler A.G.

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